Section B3e: Living and Growing - Growing up

The growth of children is closely monitored and follows a recognisable pattern. Animals and plants grow in different ways. This item explores some of these differences. Research about human stem cells and cancer provides opportunities to discuss how and why decisions about science are made and the related ethical issues. These discussions can also provide the opportunity to show that there are some questions that science cannot currently answer.

Suggested activities and experiences to select from:

Research about human stem cells; Research cancer (uncontrolled growth of undifferentiated cells)

Assessable learning outcomes:

Foundation tier only:
State that growth involves both cell division and cell differentiation
State that cell differentiation involves producing different types of cells

Both tiers:
State that undifferentiated cells called stem cells can develop into different cells, tissues and organs

Higher tier only:
Discuss issues arising from stem cell research