SCIENCES COURSE : Biology Introductory Statement Biology is the study of living organisms and it is divided into many specialised fields . Within the national courses , students will study cells , animal & plant systems and the environment . Pupils will be introduced to , and engage wit , new Scientific developments & topical Science ( e . g . stem cells , antibiotic resistance , genetic engineering ) through a variety of media . Aims & Objectives The course develops learners ’ curiosity , interest and enthusiasm for Biology in a range of contexts . It aims to develop scientific understanding of biological issues , with an emphasis on practical activities & skill development . The course aims to cover a varied range of Biology topics which are modern and relevant to everyday life .
Course Content
Unit 1 – Cell Biology Cell structure , transport across cell membranes , producing new cells , DNA and protein synthesis , proteins & enzymes , genetic engineering , respiration and photosynthesis .
Unit 2 – Multicellular organisms Cells , tissues & organs , stem cells & meristems , control & communication , reproduction , variation & inheritance , transport systems in plants , animal transport and exchange systems and effects of lifestyle choices .
Unit 3 – Life on Earth Biodiversity & the distribution of life , energy in ecosystems , sampling techniques & measurements , adaptation , natural selection & evolution and human impact on the environment .
Skills Developed � Practical skills � Literacy skills � Numeracy skills � IT skills � Research skills � Thinking skills .
Assessment SQA assessment – pupils must pass all of the following for full accreditation in a national course ; � 3 x unit assessments assessing knowledge & understanding and problem solving . � 1 x practical report � 1 or 2 short reports on a biological application and a biological issue . � 1 assignment ( National 5 only - 20 % of final grade marked by SQA ) or ‘ added value unit ’ ( national 4 only ) � Final exam ( national 5 only )
Progression Routes – dependent on individual progress & achievement � National 4 can progress onto National 5 . � National 5 can progress onto Higher Biology or Higher Human Biology
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