KS3 Human Reproduction

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Year 7 Human Reproduction
Learning Objectives

Pupils should be able to:

  1. Explain that reproduction is the creation of new members of a species to continue the genetic line and prevent extinction.
  2. Describe that individuals are identical to their parents (asexual reproduction), or different from their parents (sexual reproduction).
  3. Explain that an organism is created by the expression of its genetic material.
  4. Explain that some organisms are able to produce new organisms that are genetically identical and can do so on their own.
  5. Describe methods that allow bacteria, plants and simple animals to reproduce asexually and understand that the offspring are clones.
  6. Explain that sexual reproduction involves the passing down of genetic material from both parents.
  7. Explain the location and function of the reproductive organs in humans : ovary,  uterus, vagina, penis, testis, sperm duct, prostate gland.
  8. Explain that the male and female reproductive organs produce the sex cells (gametes) and bring them together, after sexual intercourse, in the oviduct.
  9. Identify and describe how sperm cells are adapted to their functions, eg a tail that pushes it along; streamlining, by reduction in size through having less cytoplasm; a specially strengthened head that contains chemicals to penetrate and break down the outer layers of the egg
  10. Identify and describe how egg cells are adapted to their functions, eg an enlarged cell with food reserves
  11. Explain that sperm and egg each contain half the inherited information needed and relate this to the concept of identical and non-identical twins
  12. Describe fertilisation in terms of the fusion of gametes nuclei,
  13. Identify that a sperm and egg cell carry genetic information which combines in the zygote.
  14. Explain that the zygote develops into a new human being and that its genetic information comes in equal amounts from both parents.
  15. Describe how the foetus develops in the uterus protected by the amniotic sac, amniotic fluid and placenta.
  16. Be able to describe the birth of the baby and the aftercare that is required.
  17. Be able to explain what contraception is and why it is important.
  18. Describe the development of the secondary sexual characteristics during adolescence.
  19. Explain simply how the production of eggs is controlled by the menstrual cycle.

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