CLEP Biology study plan

Define the four major macromolecule classes and list the monomers and bond types for each

Diagram the structure and function of the plasma membrane, including phospholipid bilayer and embedded proteins

Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures by listing three shared and three distinguishing features

Label the major organelles and state one primary function for each

Describe enzyme structure, substrate specificity, and the effects of temperature and pH on activity

Trace the inputs and outputs of glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation

Explain how ATP is generated via substrate-level phosphorylation and chemiosmosis

Distinguish aerobic from anaerobic respiration and identify fermentation end products

Summarize the phases of mitosis and identify the key events of each

Compare mitosis and meiosis by chromosome number and daughter cell outcomes

Describe the steps of DNA replication and the roles of helicase, polymerase, and ligase

Explain transcription and translation, including mRNA processing and codon-anticodon pairing

Predict inheritance ratios using Punnett squares for monohybrid and dihybrid crosses

Distinguish Mendelian, codominant, and sex-linked inheritance patterns

Identify the structures and functions of the major plant and animal tissue types

Describe the roles of the major organ systems in maintaining homeostasis

Trace the path of blood through the mammalian heart and circulatory system

Explain gas exchange in lungs and the mechanics of breathing

Compare the nervous and endocrine systems by signal speed, duration, and transmission route

Describe the role of the kidney in osmoregulation and blood pH balance

Outline the stages of embryonic development from fertilization through gastrulation

Explain how plant roots, stems, and leaves acquire and transport water and nutrients

Compare phototropism, gravitropism, and photoperiodism as plant responses

Describe the life cycles of mosses, ferns, and flowering plants, noting alternation of generations

Calculate population growth using exponential and logistic models given r, K, and N

Interpret survivorship curves and life tables to classify reproductive strategies

Explain competitive exclusion, niche partitioning, and predator-prey dynamics

Trace energy flow through trophic levels and calculate ecological efficiency

Describe the major biogeochemical cycles and human impacts on each

Distinguish primary from secondary succession and identify pioneer species

Review weakest subtopics from prior weeks using missed-question logs

Complete two timed full-length practice sections and analyze error patterns by domain