their functions?

HOW DO ORGANISMS REGULATE THEIR FUNCTIONS? UNIT 1 DRAFT ONLY - NOT FOR SALE

FIGURE 1 A cross-section of dicotyledon epiderm shows the many cells that make up a plant system.

Cells are the smallest building blocks of life. A multicellular organism is made up of different types of cells that perform specific functions to keep the organism alive. In order for an organism to grow or repair damage, its cells must be able to replicate. The process of cell division is an important part of the cell cycle, which involves phases of normal growth followed by replication to produce genetically identical daughter cells.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit, students should be able to: → explain and compare cellular structure and function and analyse the cell cycle and cell growth, death and differentiation Area of Study 1 How do cells function? Chapters 2–3, pages 34–105 Area of Study 2 How do plant and animal systems function? Chapters 3–4, pages 76–139

As multicellular organisms get more complex, there is an increasing differentiation of cell types within the organism. This allows for the arrangement of tissues, organs and complex systems. These systems perform a range of functions that are essential for an organism’s survival. Multicellular organisms must therefore maintain their internal environment to protect these complex systems of organs and tissues. → explain and compare how cells are specialised and organised in plants and animals, and analyse how specific systems in plants and animals are regulated. Source: VCE Biology Study Design (2022–2026) reproduced by permission © VCAA DRAFT ONLY - NOT FOR SALE