Biology Keystone Study Guide

Introduction

• Designed to help students prepare for the Biology Keystone Exam (BKE).
• Provides information about the exam, tips, and strategies for preparation.
• Keystone Exams assess proficiency in subjects like Algebra I, Literature, and Biology.
• Part of Pennsylvania's high school graduation requirements.
• PDE works to align curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices through tools like the Assessment Anchors.

How to Use the Study Guide

• Organized into three sections: Overview, Preparing for the BKE, and Test Content.
• Overview explains test dates, time, and format.
• Preparing section offers study skills and test-taking strategies.
• Test Content section details what the exam measures and includes practice questions.
• Materials needed: study guide, pen/pencil, paper, highlighter, dictionary, biology textbook, teacher.

Overview of the Biology Keystone Exam

• Administered in spring, summer, and winter.
• Two modules: each has 24 multiple-choice and 3 constructed-response questions.
• Required for graduation but does not affect the final grade.

Preparing for the BKE

Study Skills

• Time management, organization, and active participation are crucial.
• Realistic goals, study during productive times, and review previous material.
• Avoid marathon study sessions and take breaks.

Test-taking Strategies

• Understand the test format and practice with sample questions.
• Use positive self-talk and mark key ideas in your test booklet.
• Read all questions and choices carefully before answering.

Test Content

Module 1: Cells and Cell Processes

• Focus on basic principles, chemical basis of life, bioenergetics, homeostasis, and transport.
• Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cell structures and functions.
• Understand the levels of biological organization and organelle functions.
• Properties of water and their support for life, carbon's role in forming macromolecules.

Module 2: Continuity and Unity of Life

• Covers cell growth, reproduction, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
• Understand cell cycle phases, differences between mitosis and meiosis.
• DNA replication and genetic inheritance concepts.
• Patterns of inheritance: dominant, recessive, codominance, etc.
• Ecosystem dynamics, energy flow, and matter recycling.

Additional Focus Areas

• Role of enzymes in biochemical reactions and factors affecting their function.
• ATP's role in energy transformations, photosynthesis vs. cellular respiration.
• Plasma membrane structure and transport mechanisms.
• Genetic mutations and their impact on phenotypes.
• Evidence supporting the theory of evolution: fossils, DNA, embryology.
• Natural selection and its effects on populations.
• Genetic engineering and its impacts on various fields.

Sample Questions

• Various practice questions included to test knowledge on test content.
• Answers provided for self-assessment and understanding.

Conclusion

• Use the guide in conjunction with textbooks and teacher instructions for comprehensive preparation.