Throughout Term 1, VCE Biology has been an intriguing and engaging introduction to the VCE structure that is to come in the coming years.

Our first unit started off with cell size, structure and function, where we learnt about the different types of cells and the functions of organelles contained within them. It was fascinating to visualise how such a minuscule thing is responsible for the makeup of all living things. We then moved onto focusing on the plasma membrane of a cell, this topic was accompanied by a few practicals that focused on cell permeability, such as the agar surface area to volume ratio practical or the dialysis tubing practical which was linked to our first sac. We proceeded to focus on energy transformations; how cells use cellular respiration and plants use photosynthesis to produce energy. Finally, we focused on how many organisms, such as mammals, have systems such as the circulatory and excretory system from which we participated in a kidney dissection practical. We then partook in a rat dissection, which further expanded our understanding of body systems and how different organs work together to form a functioning body. The rat dissection was an exciting experience as we had the opportunity to delve into a hands-on approach based on the theoretical topic.