Biology · Combined Science Foundation
Inheritance, Variation and Evolution
Spec 4.6Paper 212 subtopics
Subtopics
1
Sexual and Asexual Reproduction
Compare sexual and asexual reproduction and explain the role of meiosis in sexual reproduction.
2
DNA and the Genome
Describe the structure of DNA, what genes are, and what the human genome project achieved.
3
Genetic Inheritance
Explain dominant and recessive inheritance and use Punnett squares to predict offspring ratios.
4
Inherited Disorders
Describe cystic fibrosis and polydactyly as examples of inherited genetic disorders.
5
Sex Determination
Explain how biological sex is determined by the X and Y chromosomes.
6
Variation
Describe the causes of variation and distinguish between genetic, environmental and combination variation.
7
Evolution and Natural Selection
Describe Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection and explain how populations change over time.
8
Selective Breeding
Describe how selective breeding works and its applications and disadvantages.
9
Genetic Engineering
Describe genetic engineering — how it works, examples and ethical considerations.
10
Evidence for Evolution
Describe the main types of evidence that support the theory of evolution.
11
Fossils and Extinction
Describe how fossils form and explain why species become extinct.
12
Resistant Bacteria
Explain how antibiotic resistance develops through natural selection and why it is a global health threat.
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