Answers to Starter Questions

This page provides answers to the starter questions, reinforcing key concepts about bacterial cells:

1. A labeled diagram of a bacterial cell, including cell membrane, cell wall, cytoplasm, ribosomes, bacterial chromosome, and plasmids.

2. The difference in DNA storage: Bacterial cells lack a nucleus, with their DNA contained in a bacterial chromosome and plasmids, unlike other cells where DNA is stored in the nucleus.

3. Bacterial reproduction: Bacteria reproduce asexually through binary fission, where one cell divides into two identical daughter cells, each containing the same plasmids and bacterial chromosome.

Highlight: Understanding the structure of bacterial cells, especially the presence of plasmids, is crucial for grasping the principles of genetic engineering in bacteria.

Genetic Engineering Key Areas

This page outlines the specific learning objectives for the genetic engineering section of the N5 biology course. Students are expected to understand:

• The concept of transferring genetic information between cells
• The stages of genetic engineering, particularly in bacteria
• The use of enzymes in the genetic engineering process
• Applications of genetic engineering

Example: The creation of genetically modified (GM) organisms, such as bacteria producing human insulin, is a practical application of genetic engineering.

Vocabulary: Plasmid - A small, circular DNA molecule in bacteria that can be used as a vector in genetic engineering.

The course also encourages students to research current genetic engineering applications, such as golden rice, blight-resistant potatoes, and the production of human medicines.