Description of Course
This course follows on from the Biology studied throughout the BGE, particularly S3 Biology. Data handling forms a significant part of the course along with a research assignment. There are three units:
Cell Biology
This unit explores cell structure and function in animals, plants and microorganisms. It explains the key role of DNA in the production of cell proteins and the importance of enzymes in all cell processes, including respiration.
Multicellular Organisms
This unit looks at cells working together as tissues and organs to maintain stable body conditions. It explains the importance of stem cells and how cells become specialised as organisms grow and develop. It also looks at inheritance and how genetic information is passed on from generation to generation.
Life on Earth
This unit looks at the importance of biodiversity on our planet and explores different ecosystems and adaptations for survival. It develops our understanding of the interactions between living things and their environment, how organisms have evolved over time and the impact of humans on the environment.
Recommended Entry
What will be different in S3?
You will meet new biology ideas and explore familiar ones in depth. You will work in groups and independently as you research different topics in the course.
How will I learn?
Coursework will include independent study, group work, practical investigations, research tasks, written reports and presentations.
How will I know how I am progressing?
Feedback from: formal and self-assessment, peer evaluation, homework and from your teacher.
Recommended Entry
Pupils should have completed the S3 Biology course. Results of the S1-3 end of unit assessments and the S3 skills will be used to ensure that pupils are allocated places in the course at the appropriate level.
To study at N5 level pupils are also recommended to be undertaking or have achieved National 5 Maths and National 5 English.
Assessment
To gain a Course award at:
National 5 - pupils must pass an externally marked written exam and complete a practical research assignment which is also marked externally. Unit assessments set and marked internally will be used to monitor progress. The final award is graded A-D.
N.B. Pupils will not be able to switch from N5 to N4 level during the course due to the differences in course content and assessments.
National 4 - pupils must pass the unit assessments, submit a practical report and also complete a report of an investigation/research task. These are all marked internally and there is no final exam. National 4 awards are graded Pass or Fail.
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?
Pupils who are successful at National 4 Biology can progress to National 5 Biology and then to Higher Human Biology.
Pupils who are successful at Higher Human Biology can progress to Advanced Higher Biology.
The Biology courses give an excellent basis for a wide range of further study options and career choices. They can also be used 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.