Understands and applies knowledge of the behavior of organisms
The "behavior of organisms" is an essential concept of a world-class secondary science curriculum. Included in the "behavior of organisms" is the following content:
Nervous systems and behavior
- Nerve cell structure and function
- Nerve cell communications through neurotransmitters
- Sensor organs are specialized cells detecting environmental input
- Organisms respond to internal changes and external stimuli
- Plant behaviors
- Reproduction is necessary for survival - animal reproductive behaviors
- Sexual reproduction in humans depends on cultural, personal, and biological factors.
- Behaviors are adaptive and have evolved through natural selection
- The immune system protects against microscopic and foreign substances entering the body and from cancer cells arising within
- The hormonal system exerts its influence by chemicals circulating in the blood
- Coordinated systems (nervous, muscular and bone) are necessary for locomotion.