Higher Biology

DURATION

1 Year / 240 Hours

COURSEWORK

Assignment 20 % of award

EXAM

Question Papers 80% of award

COST

No Cost

What will you learn?

1. DNA AND THE GENOME

  • Structure and replication of DNA

  • Gene expression

  • Differentiation in multicellular organisms

  • Genome and mutations

  • Genomics and genomic sequencing



2. METABOLISM AND SURVIVAL

  • Metabolism and enzymes

  • Control of metabolic pathways

  • Cellular respiration

  • Maintaining metabolism

  • •Maintaining metabolism during environmental change

  • Growth and metabolism of micro-organisms

  • Genetic control of metabolism

3. SUSTAINABILITY AND INTERDEPENDENCE

  • Science of food production

  • Photosynthesis and energy transfer

  • Breeding plants and animals for food

  • Crop protection

  • Animal welfare

  • Inter-relationships and dependence

  • Social behaviour

  • Biodiversity

Why do this course?

The course develops candidates’ interest and enthusiasm for biology in a range of stimulating, relevant and enjoyable contexts. It also allows flexibility and personalisation by offering a choice of contexts to study. The skills of scientific inquiry and investigation are developed throughout the course. This will enable candidates to become scientifically-literate citizens.

What will you experience?

A wide range of teaching strategies are used with classes, such as thinking skills, direct teaching, paired and/or group work. Work in class is supported through the use of work guides, text books, study notes, ICT and other digital media. Pupils are expected to take on responsibility for their learning.

Key Facts

Everything you need to know before selecting this course

Assessment

Assessment will be a part of the Learning process.

There will be end of topic tests, practical assessments and other opportunities for pupils to demonstrate their problem-solving skills and knowledge and understanding.

Course assessment

Assignment 20% Question Paper 80%

Assignment is 7-8 hours in class research & 13hours written assignment report

Question paper is 3 hours

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Entry is at the discretion of the Principal Teacher Faculty, Science. However, as a guide:

  • A pass in National 5 Biology or

  • A pass in another Science subject at Higher level

It is recommended that pupils will have achieved or be working towards National 5 Maths and English

Homework

Homework will be set by the class teacher on a regular basis, this will be available on TEAMs.

Progression and Employment

Everything you need to know about future pathways from this course

Progression

  • Advanced Higher Biology

  • Higher Human Biology


Employment

A study of Higher Biology can lead to further studies and a career in a wide variety of sectors including

Zoology & animal studies, agriculture, biotechnology, crop science, medical and health, food and drink industry, microbiology.


Learner Experiences