The course encourages development of; knowledge and understanding; solving problems; planning, designing experiments and investigations; selecting and presenting information; processing information; predicting; drawing valid conclusions; explaining and justifying; suggesting improvements; independent working. Learning will include activities which are experiential, active, challenging and include appropriate practical activities. An investigatory approach will be encouraged in Biology, with pupils involved in developing their skills, knowledge and understanding.

To gain the award of the Course, pupils must pass the course assessment.

The course assessment will provide the basis for grading attainment in the Course award (grades A-D).

The course assessment will consist of two Components: 

• • a question paper (Exam) (two sections, 100 marks in total) - (2hr 30 mins) 

  • an assignment report (one section, 20 marks, scaled to 25 marks) – (1hr 30 mins)

The purpose of the assignment is to allow the learner to carry out an in-depth study of a biology topic.

The assignment has two stages:

• Research - which will also include an experiment which has been carried out by the student.

• Report - a written report must be produced by each student under exam conditions.

Development of skills for learning, life and work

It is expected that learners will develop broad, generic skills through this course in:

• • Numeracy (Number processes, information handling and money, time and measurement) 

  • Thinking Skills (Applying, analysing, evaluating and understanding) 

The following resources are useful for this course:

• • www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/45725.html

  • www.understandingstandards.org.uk/Subjects/Biology/national5

  • www.bbc.co.uk/education/levels/z6gw2hv

  • www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zync87h

  • www.oronsay.org/Nat5.htm