The ‘life sciences’ or ‘biological sciences’ comprise the branches of science that involve the scientific study of life and organisms – such as microorganisms, plants, and animals including human beings.
‘Life Science’ is the scientific study of living things from molecular level to their interactions with one another and their environments. It is the study of life at various levels of organisation and comprises a variety of sub-disciplines such as biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, genetics, zoology, botany, entomology, plant and animal anatomy, physiology and taxonomy, environmental studies, socio-biology (animal behaviour) and evolution.
The core concepts that form the basis for the Grade 10-12 syllabus are: Life at molecular, cellular and tissue level; life processes in plants and animals; diversity, change and continuity; and environmental studies. At school level, all of these sub disciplines are introduced, to varying degrees, to provide a broad overview of the subject. Many of the assessments are based on the understanding of these concepts and processes and their application in society.
The Life Sciences curriculum aims to ensure that learners develop critical enquiry skills and are able to reflect on activities in this subject. Life Sciences discoveries are helpful in improving the quality and standard of life, and have applications in health, agriculture, medicine, and the pharmaceutical and food science industries.
