Description of Course
The Advanced Higher course looks at topics in greater depth and develops an understanding of the way biological principles can be applied to important issues facing society today. Advanced Higher Biology particularly encourages independent study and includes the design and completion of an extended practical investigation.
Cells and Proteins:
This starts with a range of laboratory techniques for biologists and focuses on the importance of proteins in all aspects of cell biology. It looks at protein structure, binding and conformational change and links these to detecting and amplifying a stimulus, communication between cells and the control of cell division.
Organisms and Evolution:
This explores different techniques used for ecological field studies and how these have developed our understanding of evolution. It looks at variation and the evolution of different patterns of reproduction as well as parasitism and its impact on evolution.
Investigative Biology [half unit]:
This covers scientific principles and processes, experimentation and the evaluation of biological research.
Practical Investigation [half unit]:
Pupils will apply the skills of experimentation and their understanding of scientific principles and process gained in Investigative Biology to carry out an investigation. They must complete and submit an investigation report for external assessment.
Recommended Entry
Higher Human Biology preferably at A or B
National 5 Maths and National 5 English.
Data handling forms a significant part of the course, along with extended writing.
Assessment
To gain the Course award pupils must pass the all the units and an externally marked written exam. They must also complete a practical report and an extended research assignment/practical investigation and submit an investigation report for external assessment. The Unit Assessments and the Practical Report are assessed in school.
My Learning
What will be different in the senior phase?
You will study a range of Biology topics in more depth and develop skills in practical work and research.
How will I learn?
You will be required to work independently and in groups, developing your understanding through discussion and research. Emphasis is on the practical applications of biology and the transferrable skills that are part of any science course - problem solving, analysis, critical thinking, numeracy and practical skills.
What will my Home Learning commitment be?
Home learning forms an important part of the course and you will regularly be given homework tasks such as past paper questions, research tasks, written reports etc.
How will I know how I am progressing?
You will receive verbal and written feedback on class and homework as well as tracking and monitoring reports and assessments. These will help you to identify next steps with your teacher.
Progression
How can I take this course forward?
Biology courses give an excellent basis for a wide range of further study options and career choices.
Pupils who are successful at Advanced Higher Biology can use this to gain entry to further and higher education courses in areas associated with the life sciences. These include Agriculture, Biology [Botany & Zoology], Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Biophysics, Forensics, Immunology, Marine Biology, Medicine, Nutrition & Dietetics, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Pharmacology, Radiography and Veterinary Science.
The Biology courses may also enable pupils to move directly into employment in a related area.