The Grade 12 Life Sciences curriculum is a fascinating exploration of biological systems, from the microscopic code of DNA to the complex history of human evolution. For the Class of 2026, success in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) requires mastering two distinct papers: one focusing on systems and homeostasis, and the other on change and continuity (Genetics and Evolution).
This guide outlines the 2026 Life Sciences Annual Teaching Plan (ATP), providing a structured weekly roadmap to help learners and teachers navigate the syllabus effectively.
Life Sciences Grade 12 ATP 2026
The curriculum is divided into four terms, covering specific strands that align with the two final examination papers.
Term 1: DNA, Meiosis & Reproduction
Focus: The year begins with the fundamental molecules of life (DNA/RNA) and cell division, moving into the diversity of reproductive strategies in the animal kingdom.
- Weeks 1–2: DNA: The Code of Life
- Structure: Location of DNA, chromosomes, genes, and the discovery of the double helix structure1.
- Replication: The process and importance of DNA replication.
- Protein Synthesis: The roles of RNA (mRNA, tRNA), transcription, and translation2.
* **Practical:** extracting DNA to observe the threads.
- Weeks 3–4: Meiosis
- Process: The phases of Meiosis I and II, and the importance of reducing chromosome number3.
- Abnormal Meiosis: Non-disjunction and its consequences (e.g., Down Syndrome).
- Comparison: Differences between Mitosis and Meiosis4.
- Weeks 5–6: Reproduction in Vertebrates
- Strategies: Diversity in reproductive strategies, including external vs. internal fertilisation, ovipary, vivipary, and parental care5.
- Weeks 7–10: Human Reproduction
- Systems: Structure of male and female reproductive systems6.
- Processes: Puberty, the menstrual cycle, fertilisation, and implantation7.
- Development: Gestation and the role of the placenta8.
Term 1 Assessments
- Task 1: Practical (Minimum 30 Marks)9.
- Task 2: Test (Minimum 50 Marks)10.
Term 2: Genetics, Nerves & Homeostasis
Focus: Term 2 covers the complex rules of inheritance (Genetics) and how humans respond to their environment through the nervous and endocrine systems.
- Weeks 1–4: Genetics and Inheritance
- Concepts: Genes, alleles, dominant, recessive, and sex-linked inheritance11.
- Crosses: Monohybrid and Dihybrid crosses, and blood grouping12.
- Pedigrees: Interpreting genetic lineage diagrams13.
- Applications: Genetic engineering, paternity testing, and mutations14.
- Weeks 5–7: Responding to the Environment (Humans)
- Nervous System: Central (brain/spinal cord) and Peripheral nervous systems.
- Reflex Arc: Structure and function of a reflex arc15.
- Sense Organs: Structure and functioning of the Human Eye and Human Ear16.
- Weeks 8–9: Human Endocrine System & Homeostasis
- Glands: Endocrine vs. exocrine glands.
- Hormones: Functions of key hormones and negative feedback mechanisms (e.g., TSH/Thyroxin, Insulin/Glucagon)17.
- Homeostasis: Regulation of glucose, carbon dioxide, water, and temperature (thermoregulation)18.
- Week 10: Responding to the Environment (Plants)
- Hormones: Plant hormones (Auxins, Gibberellins, Abscisic acid) and their role in tropisms (phototropism, geotropism)19.
- Defence: Plant defence mechanisms20.
Term 2 Assessments
- Task 3: Practical (Minimum 30 Marks)21.
- Task 4: June Examination (150 Marks) OR Controlled Test (Minimum 50 Marks)22.
Term 3: Evolution & Trial Exams
Focus: The third term is dedicated to the theory of Evolution, hominid studies, and preparation for the Trial Examinations.
- Weeks 1–2: Evolution by Natural Selection
- Theories: Comparison of Lamarckism and Darwinism23.
- Mechanisms: Punctuated equilibrium, artificial selection, and speciation (geographic isolation)24.
- Evidence: Fossil record, biogeography, and genetics25.
- Weeks 3–4: Human Evolution
- Hominids: Evidence of common ancestors for living hominids, including humans26.
- Out of Africa: The “Out of Africa” hypothesis and supporting evidence27.
- Weeks 5–11: Revision & Trial Exams
- Consolidation of all topics and writing the Trial Examination (Papers 1 & 2)28.
Term 3 Assessments
- Task 5: Formal Assignment (Minimum 50 Marks)29.
- Task 6: Trial Examination (150 Marks per paper)30.
Term 4: Final Assessment
Focus: The final term is dedicated to revision and the external NSC examination.
- Weeks 1–3: Intensive Revision using “Mind the Gap” study guides and past papers3131.
- Final Assessment: NSC Final Examinations.
Exam Structure: Paper 1 vs. Paper 2
It is crucial to know which topics appear in which paper to structure your revision323232:
| Paper 1 (150 Marks) | Marks | Paper 2 (150 Marks) | Marks |
| Reproduction in Vertebrates | 8 | DNA: Code of Life | 27 |
| Human Reproduction | 41 | Meiosis | 21 |
| Responding to Environment (Humans) | 54 | Genetics and Inheritance | 48 |
| Endocrine System & Homeostasis | 34 | Evolution | 54 |
| Responding to Environment (Plants) | 13 | ||
| Total | 150 | Total | 150 |
FAQ: Life Sciences Grade 12
Q: What is the difference between Meiosis and Mitosis?
A:
In Term 1, you will learn that Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells (growth/repair), while Meiosis results in four genetically different haploid cells (gametes for reproduction)33.
Q: Which diagrams must I be able to draw?
A:
You should be proficient in drawing and labeling genetic crosses (Monohybrid/Dihybrid), the reflex arc, the structure of a neuron, and phases of Meiosis. You must also be able to interpret pedigree diagrams34.
Q: How much does the Evolution topic count?
A:
Evolution is a major section in Paper 2, counting for 54 marks (over 30% of the paper). It covers natural selection, speciation, and human evolution35.