Advanced Higher Biology

Why take this course?

The purpose of the Course is to build on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed by the learner in Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology, and to provide a useful bridge towards further study of biology.

What will I learn?

Cells and Proteins

This unit will develop knowledge and understanding of proteomics, protein structure, binding and conformational change; membrane proteins; detecting and amplifying a stimulus; communication within multicellular organism and protein control of cell division. The study of protein is primarily a laboratory-based activity, so the Unit includes important laboratory techniques for biologists.

Organisms and Evolution

This unit will develop knowledge and understanding of evolution; variation and sexual reproduction; sex and behaviour and parasitism. It covers the role of sexual reproduction and parasitism in the evolution of organisms. Biological variation is a central concept in this Unit and is best observed in the natural environment.

Investigative Biology

This unit will develop knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of investigative biology and its communication. The Unit covers scientific principles and processes, experimentation and critical evaluation of biological research.

The aims of this course are to enable learners to:

• develop a critical understanding of the role of biology in scientific issues and relevant applications, including the impact these could make on the environment/society

• extend and apply knowledge, understanding and skills of biology

• develop and apply the skills to carry out complex practical scientific activities, including the use of risk assessments, technology, equipment and materials

• develop and apply scientific inquiry and investigative skills, including planning and experimental design

• develop and apply analytical thinking skills, including critical evaluation of experimental procedures, in a biology context

• extend and apply problem solving skills in a biology context

• further develop an understanding of scientific literacy, using a wide range of resources, in order to communicate complex ideas and issues and to make scientifically informed choices

• extend and apply skills of independent/autonomous working in biology

How will I be assessed?

Internal Assessment

Each unit will be assessed internally. A pass in each of the three units is required to achieve an overall award.

External Assessment

The grade awarded for the course is determined by external assessment.

Component 1 — question paper – 100 marks

Component 2 — project – 30 marks

Total marks – 130 marks