This week we have been learning about the transport systems of plants. The phloem and xylem are important tissues in plants, the phloem is responsible for plant protection and gas exchange and the xylem is responsible for the transport of water and ions. We also learned about the process of water transport in stems and leaves, where water is taken up through the roots and rises through the xylem to the stems and leaves. Transpiration is the main driver of water transport and it occurs in the stomata of the leaves and is influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity and wind speed. We gained an insight into the conditions of transpiration and the factors that affect the rate. With this knowledge, we gained a better understanding of the transport process in plants.

In grade 10 biology lesson, students delved into immunology. Firstly, they learned about the process of transmissible diseases and how pathogens are transmitted to the body through contact, airborne and other means. Second, students also learned about the process of immunity and how the body recognises and fights off pathogens through the immune system. They then learnt about the difference between active and passive immunity, where active immunity is the production of antibodies to fight off pathogens, whereas passive immunity is the acquisition of immunity through external injection of antibodies. Finally, students also learned about vaccines and other methods of disease prevention. Vaccines prevent diseases by activating the immune system, while other methods such as good hygiene habits and disinfection can also effectively reduce the spread of diseases. Through these studies, we gained a deeper understanding of the importance of immunology in protecting health.

This week we have been learning about the mammalian blood transport system. We focussed on the formation and function of tissue fluid and learned about the important role blood plays within the body. We also explained in detail the structure and function of the heart and learned how the heart drives the circulation of blood through the cardiac cycle. We learned about the four chambers of the heart and the role of the heart valves, as well as the control mechanisms of the heart. Throughout the week we have realised the importance of the heart to mammals.

During our CCA time this week, we had the students observe the heart of a crucian carp through a dissection experiment to get to know the heart in a more realistic and clear way. We focus on a student-centred approach to teaching and learning, incorporating the concept of mixed-age education so that they can develop a love of biology through experimental exploration. Through this approach, we hope that the students will gain a deeper understanding of the structure and function of the heart, as well as experience the fun of scientific exploration.