Curriculum Overview, Key Topics, Exam Structure & Study Resources

🧬 What Is Junior Secondary Biology?

Junior Secondary Biology (S1–S3) in Hong Kong follows a scientific inquiry approach—Observe, Hypothesize, Verify—to help students understand the connection between biological phenomena and molecular mechanisms. The curriculum also promotes awareness of bioethics and sustainable development, aiming for a balance between scientific advancement and ecological responsibility.

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🎯 Learning Objectives

The main goals of Junior Secondary Biology in Hong Kong are to:

• Build a foundation in life sciences: Understand the relationships between biological structures and life processes.
• Develop scientific inquiry skills: Conduct experiments and apply scientific methods.
• Raise awareness of ecology and health: Understand environmental conservation and personal health.
• Bridge to HKDSE Biology: Prepare students for the senior secondary elective subject.

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📘 Curriculum Structure: 5 Core Domains

1. Cells & Life Processes

• Cell Structure & Function:
  • Compare plant and animal cells using microscopes.
  • Explore organelle functions, especially mitochondria as “powerhouses.”
• Vital Life Processes:
  • Enzyme activity experiments (e.g. catalase breakdown rate).
  • Diffusion & osmosis demonstrations using potato strips in salt solutions.

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2. Human Biology

• In-depth Study of Organ Systems:

System	Key Concepts	Example Experiments
Digestion	Nutrient testing, amylase function	Model of intestinal villi
Circulatory	Blood types & transfusion	Microscope study of frog web capillaries
Nervous	Reflex arc	Knee-jerk reflex test

• Health Focus:
  • Mechanism of vaccines (e.g. COVID-19 case study)
  • Non-communicable disease prevention (e.g. diabetes & diet)

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3. Plant Biology

• Photosynthesis Experiments:
  • Light exposure and starch testing using iodine
  • CO₂ concentration as a limiting factor
• Adaptations & Growth:
  • Observing stomata in desert plants
  • Germination under varying conditions

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4. Genetics & Evolution

• Fundamentals of Genetics:
  • Mendel’s pea simulation
  • Inherited human traits survey (e.g. attached earlobes)
• Modern Biotechnology:
  • Strawberry DNA extraction
  • Debates on GM crops and ethics

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5. Ecology & Environment

• Ecosystem Studies:
  • Constructing food webs (e.g. Mai Po Wetland case)
  • Building energy pyramid models
• Environmental Issues:
  • Bioaccumulation (e.g. microplastics)
  • School biodiversity surveys

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🎓 Unique Teaching Approaches

🧠 Interdisciplinary Learning Projects:

yaml複製編輯Infectious Disease Research ➜ 
  └── Math: Curve modeling
  └── Geography: Spatial spread analysis
  └── Chemistry: Disinfectant mechanisms

🧪 Digital & Experiential Tools:

• Vernier sensors for photosynthesis rate tracking
• Virtual dissection tools (e.g. Frog Dissection AR)

🌍 Context-Based Learning:

• Simulated outbreak tracking for epidemiology
• DIY eco-bottles to observe nutrient cycles

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🧷 Laboratory Safety & Standards

BSL Level	Experiment Type	Precautions
BSL-1	Plant observation	Basic hygiene and lab protocols
BSL-2	Microbial culture	Biosafety cabinet, emergency plans

Emergency Protocols:

• Spillage cleanup for culture media
• Broken slide response steps

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📝 Assessment Structure

(1) School-Based Assessment (60%)

• Lab Skills Evaluation:
  • Microscopy skills (focusing speed, slide prep quality)
• Scientific Report Writing:
  • Logical structure: Hypothesis → Methods → Conclusion
• Project-Based Learning:
  • e.g., “Insect Diversity vs. Temperature in School Grounds”

(2) Public Assessment (40%)

• Innovative Question Types:
  • Design experiments (e.g. phototropism)
  • Analyze data (e.g. population growth trends)

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🧰 Teaching & Learning Resources

📱 Digital Tools:

• HKU Interactive Biology Learning Platform
• BioMan Biology (gamified learning)

🧩 Physical Aids:

• 3D organ puzzles
• DNA double helix assembly kits

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🔗 Alignment with Primary & DSE Biology

• From Primary to Junior Secondary:
  • Shift from naming organs to understanding systems coordination
  • Move from demo-based to independent microscope usage
• Preparing for HKDSE Biology:
  • S3 introduces science reading comprehension
  • Basic biochemistry (e.g. enzyme factors) as a transition topic

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🧬 Latest Trends & Developments

• Biotech Module:
  • CRISPR animation to explain gene editing
  • Stem cell therapy debates and ethics
• Ecological Projects:
  • Chinese white dolphin conservation case study
  • Campus rain garden design and implementation

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👪 Parental Support & At-Home Activities

• Hands-On Biology:
  • Make homemade yogurt to observe bacterial action
  • Record bean sprout growth in a diary
• Science Exploration:
  • Visit Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden
  • Join “Junior Naturalist” programs
• Recommended Reads:
  • Our Amazing Body (Pop-up Book)
  • Silent Spring – Youth Edition

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📊 2024 Key Education Statistics (Hong Kong)

• School Biology Lab Compliance Rate: 91%
• Annual Lab Hours: 50 (35% of total science time)
• DSE Biology Take-up Rate: 45% among science stream students

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📌 Note:

Information provided for reference only. For official updates, visit the Hong Kong Education Bureau website: www.edb.gov.hk

Drafted by AI. Edited by Professor Chan Kwok Wai. Executive Editor: Kong Yi Leung.