O Level
BIOLOGY
The O Level (Biology) G3 Syllabus is designed to have less emphasis on hard memorization but an increased emphasis of understanding & application of learnt concepts & principles. This approach has been adopted in recognition of the need for students to develop skills that will be of long-term value in an increasingly technological world, rather than focusing on large quantities of factual material,
which may have only short-term relevance.
Overview of the Singapore O Levels Biology Syllabus
The O level Biology syllabus is split into 4 main sections:
Theme 1. Principles of Biology
Theme 2. Maintenance & regulation of life processes
Theme 3. Continuity of life
Theme 4. Man & his environment
Each theme comprises several subtopics that provide a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Theme 1. Principles of Biology
Life is like a big team with different players, and the most important players are the cells. This idea is called the Cell Theory, which says that everything alive is made up of cells, and cells come from other cells. Imagine cells like tiny factories, each part designed for a specific job. This is called "structure to function." Also, cells become experts at certain jobs, just like people specialize in different careers. This teamwork helps cells do important tasks. Understanding these basic ideas will help you understand more about biology later on.
1. cell structure & organization
2. movement of substances
3. Biological molecules
Theme 2. Maintenance & regulation of life processes
Think of all living things as a well-organized orchestra. To keep the show going, one needs to do many things, like eating, breathing, and staying in balance. These things are part of life processes. Each organ system in your body has a special job, and they're like puzzle pieces – they fit perfectly to make everything work. By studying these systems, you'll see how shape and job are connected.
4. Nutrition in Humans
5. Nutrition in Plants
6. Transport in Flower Plants
7. Transport in Humans
8. Respiration in Humans
9. Excretion in Humans
10. Homeostasis
11. Co-ordination & response in Humans
Theme 3. Continuity of Life
Reproduction is vital for the survival of species across generations. In 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick developed the model for deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), a chemical that had then recently been deduced to be the physical carrier of inheritance. In this section, we examine how genes interact to produce hereditary characteristics in the offspring. This section focuses on understanding the processes involved in the continuity of life and how genetic information is passed from one generation to the next.
12. Reproduction
13. Cell devision
14. Molecular Genetics
15. Inheritance
Theme 4. Man & his environment
This last theme holds ever more importance in regard to current affairs globally. Every organism in the world, including humans are part of a complex interconnecting network of interactions amongst themselves & the environment. This theme aims to explore 2 major processes, the first is the cycling of nutrients, as illustrated by the carbon cycle & the second being the flow of energy from sunlight to organisms further down the food chain. Lastly, as all organisms in the food web are interconnected, disruptions to it can inflict disproportionate effects on others in the chain. This is sadly best seen in how human activities have left their mark by permanently altering ecosystems leaving many organisms that we know today at risk of extinction. This theme aims to raise awareness & instill a sense of responsibility in all to protect Earth.
16. Organisms & their Environment
To offer the best O level Biology Tuition to students, students at Aspire Thinking Learning Centre in BIshan will have access to the following features:
Qualified and Experienced Tutors
Our Biology Tutors have extensive experience in the subject as they are specialised in the field during their tertiary education. All of them have at least 5 years of experience in teaching.
Conceptual Understanding
We emphasize conceptual understanding over rote memorization by explaining the "why" and "how" behind biological concepts to help students tackle a range of exam questions. Look out for our customised mind maps to help students "connect the dots better" when they get to understand the relationships between concepts.
Regular Assessments and Feedback
Our Learning Management System via Google Classroom are constantly updated by Tutors to track students' progress. Feedback from tutors helps students identify areas for improvement and work on their weaknesses. Parents are able to access this upon request.
Customized Learning
All lessons offer personalized attention. Small class sizes of max 5 pax allow the tutor to address individual students' strengths and weaknesses, adapting teaching methods accordingly.
We believe in 'no student gets left behind'
Practice Papers and Mock Exams (Timed Practice)
Ample practice materials, including past year papers and mock exams will be provided. Solving these under timed conditions helps students become familiar with the exam format and improve time management.
For a more painless journey and accelerated track in mastering O Level Biology, speak to us on fees and class schedules :)
