ICSE Class 11 Syllabus for Biotechnology

ICSE Class 11 Biotechnology Syllabus Latest 2025-2026

The ICSE Class 11 Biotechnology syllabus provides an introduction to the principles and applications of biotechnology. It covers fundamental concepts, techniques, and the impact of biotechnology on various fields. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the syllabus:

**1. Introduction to Biotechnology

• Definition and Scope:
  • What is Biotechnology? Definition and historical background.
  • Applications: Overview of applications in agriculture, medicine, and industry.
• Branches of Biotechnology:
  • Agricultural Biotechnology: Genetic engineering, plant breeding.
  • Medical Biotechnology: Gene therapy, vaccine development.
  • Industrial Biotechnology: Bioprocessing, biofuels, and bioplastics.

**2. Basic Biological Principles

• Cell Structure and Function:
  • Cell Theory: Basic principles of cell theory.
  • Types of Cells: Prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells.
  • Cell Organelles: Structure and function of organelles (nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, etc.).
• Genetics:
  • DNA Structure and Function: Structure of DNA, replication, and transcription.
  • Genes and Chromosomes: Concept of genes, alleles, and chromosomes.
  • Genetic Variation: Mutation, genetic recombination, and their effects.

**3. Biotechnological Techniques

• Recombinant DNA Technology:
  • Basic Concepts: Gene cloning, restriction enzymes, and ligases.
  • Plasmids and Vectors: Role of plasmids, vectors, and transformation in gene cloning.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR):
  • Principle: Process of amplifying DNA.
  • Applications: Uses in diagnostics, research, and forensic science.
• Gel Electrophoresis:
  • Principle: Separation of DNA, RNA, or proteins by size.
  • Techniques: Preparing and interpreting gel electrophoresis results.
• Bioprocessing:
  • Fermentation: Principles of microbial fermentation.
  • Bioreactors: Types and functions of bioreactors in industrial biotechnology.

**4. Applications of Biotechnology

• Agricultural Biotechnology:
  • Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Principles and techniques of genetic modification in plants and animals.
  • Biofortification: Enhancing nutritional quality of crops.
• Medical Biotechnology:
  • Biopharmaceuticals: Production of medicines using biotechnology.
  • Diagnostics: Use of biotechnology in disease diagnosis and monitoring.
• Industrial Biotechnology:
  • Biofuels: Production and use of biofuels.
  • Biopolymers: Production and applications of bioplastics.

**5. Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues

• Ethics in Biotechnology:
  • Ethical Concerns: Issues related to genetic modification, cloning, and biotechnological patents.
  • Regulations and Guidelines: Overview of regulations governing biotechnology practices.
• Social Impact:
  • Public Perception: Societal views on biotechnology and its impact on the environment and health.
  • Global Issues: Role of biotechnology in addressing global challenges such as food security and disease.

**6. Biotechnology and Environment

• Bioremediation:
  • Concepts: Use of microorganisms to clean up environmental pollutants.
  • Techniques: Methods of bioremediation (phytoremediation, microbial degradation).
• Sustainable Biotechnology:
  • Principles: Sustainable practices in biotechnology.
  • Applications: Eco-friendly biotechnological processes and products.

**7. Practical Work

• Laboratory Techniques:
  • DNA Extraction and Analysis: Performing DNA extraction and analyzing results.
  • PCR and Gel Electrophoresis: Conducting PCR experiments and interpreting gel electrophoresis data.
• Project Work:
  • Research Projects: Conducting a small-scale research project related to biotechnology.
• Field Visits:
  • Industry Visits: Observing biotechnology applications in industries.

Notes

• Textbooks and Reference Materials: Use prescribed textbooks and additional reference materials as recommended by ICSE or your school.
• Updates: Always check with your school for the latest syllabus updates or specific topics.

This syllabus is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of biotechnology concepts, techniques, and applications, preparing them for further studies and careers in the field of biotechnology