Biology

Course summary

YEAR 12: Four units are studied over the year. At the end of year 12 there will be two examinations testing the knowledge and skills from these units. The topics: - Topic 1 Biological molecules - Topic 2 Cells - Topic 3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment - Topic 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms YEAR 13: 4 additional units are studied to achieve an A level in biology. At the end of the year there will be three examinations testing the knowledge and skills learnt from both years. The additional topics are: - Topic 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms - Topic 6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments - Topic 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems - Topic 8 The control of gene expression LEARNING AND SKILLS: Students will develop practical and analytical skills, by planning experiments, collecting data, analyzing experimental results, and making conclusions. Students will also learn how scientific models are developed, the applications and implications of science, the benefits and risks that science brings, and the ways in which society uses science to make decisions. Students will also need to: - Make clear, concise notes from reference texts - Interpret data in a variety of forms e.g. graphs, experimental results - Assess and evaluate scientific information - Apply biological facts and principles to new problems and situations - Perform a variety of practical work such as dissections, microscopic work, and investigations - Maintain a written record of all practical work in a log book - Use interactive tutorials on computers both in school and at home. - Write essays ( one essay from choice of two in paper 3) Use mathematical skills: - Calculate percentages, ratios, rates, probabilities - Carry out and interpret statistical tests - Plot and interpret a variety of different graphs - Use a calculator to find and use power, exponential and logarithmic functions - Use logarithms - Utilize and manipulate algebraic formula - Carry out geometry and trigonometry