Biology Domains

I. Communicating within a scientific framework

a. Communicating understanding of scientific content both orally and in written form
b. Analyzing and evaluating information for scientific validity
c. Constructing and supporting arguments based on evidence using claim-evidence-reasoning
structure
d. Learning and using the vocabulary of Biology
e. Creating and organizing lab presentations, posters, write-ups, and models
i. Explaining complicated content through simple means
II. Designing and Executing Scientific Investigations
a. Asking appropriate investigable scientific questions
b. Formulating testable hypotheses
c. Designing and carrying out laboratory and field investigations
i. Correctly identifying, controlling, and manipulating variables
ii. Explaining how data will be collected and reported
d. Evaluating the validity of an investigation
i. Explaining possible sources of error and extensions to the investigation
III. Analyzing Data and Computational Thinking
a. Presenting collected data in organized numerical and/or visual form
i. Creating and interpreting graphical representations of data
ii. Determining the significance of trends in data based on considerations of scale and
sample size
b. Analyzing collected data for trends, patterns, or cycles
c. Recognizing patterns, correlations, causes, and effects in order to determine relationships
between variables
IV. Developing and Using Models
a. Using graphs to represent information and information trends
b. Using graphic organization to group data and information
c. Constructing or using physical models as helpful tools for representing ideas and explanations
d. Using and interpreting dichotomous keys
e. Using and interpreting Computer based models
f. Applying natural cycles as models to scientific investigation
g. Understanding and predicting biological phenomena
V. Analyzing the interconnectedness of biological systems through the Theory of Evolution
a. Identifying incidents of natural selection
b. Constructing arguments based on evolutionary theory
c. Understanding the evidence for evolution
d. Organizing diverse life forms based on evolutionary characteristics
e. Using evolution to understand biological systems on a global (macro) and local (micro) scale
VI. Understanding the biological basis of human thinking and behavior
a. Understanding neuroplasticity: how the brain changes over time and through learning
b. Engaging in Metacognition
c. Understanding how Scientific Ideas Evolve over time
d. Understanding how physical and emotional states affect brain function

Cross-cutting Concepts
● Cause and Effects
● Structure and Function
● Systems and System Models
● Scale, Proportion, and Quantity
● Stability and Change
● Energy and Matter
● Patterns