Advanced Higher Biology

Course Rational
This course is based on the integrative ideas and unifying principles of modern biological science. It covers key aspects of life science at the molecular scale and extends to aspects of the biology of whole organisms that are among the major driving forces of evolution. The course aims to develop a sound theoretical understanding and practical experience of experimental investigative work in biological science. It further develops candidates’ abilities to think analytically, creatively and independently, and to make reasoned evaluations. Candidates can develop their communication, collaborative working and leadership skills, and can apply critical thinking in new and unfamiliar contexts to solve problems. 

Who is this course for? 

The course is suitable for candidates who are secure in their attainment of Higher Biology, Higher Human Biology or an equivalent qualification. It is designed for candidates who can respond to a level of challenge, especially those considering further study or a career in biology and related disciplines. The course emphasises practical and experiential learning opportunities, with a strong skills based approach to learning. It takes account of the needs of all candidates, and provides sufficient flexibility to enable candidates to achieve in different ways. 

Course content 

Cells and Proteins 

The key areas covered are: 

•  laboratory techniques for biologists

•  proteins 

• membrane proteins  

• communication and signalling 

•  protein control of cell division 

Organisms and Evolution 

• The key areas covered are: 

• field techniques for biologists 

• evolution 

• variation and sexual reproduction  

• sex and behaviour 

• parasitism 

Investigative Biology 

The key areas covered are: 

• scientific principles and process  

• experimentation 

• reporting and critical evaluation of biological research 

Skills, knowledge and understanding 

The following provides a broad overview of the subject skills, knowledge and understanding developed in the course: 

• extending and applying knowledge of biology to new situations, interpreting and analysing information to solve complex problems 

• planning and designing biological experiments/investigations, using reference materials and including risk assessments to test a hypothesis or to illustrate particular effects 

• carrying out complex experiments in biology safely, recording systematic detailed observations and collecting data 

• selecting information from a variety of sources and presenting detailed information, appropriately, in a variety of forms 

• processing and analysing biological information/data (using calculations, significant figures and units, where appropriate) 

•  making reasoned predictions and generalisations from a range of evidence/information 

• drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification 

• critically evaluating experimental procedures by identifying sources of error and suggesting and implementing improvements  

• drawing on knowledge and understanding of biology to make accurate statements, describe complex information, provide detailed explanations and integrate knowledge 

• communicating biological findings/information fully and effectively 

• analysing and evaluating scientific publications and media reports 

Recommended entry

The course is suitable for candidates  who have achieved a grade C or better at Higher Biology.

Assessment and progression

The course assessment has two components, both of which are marked externally

• question paper (75%) and 

• project (25%).

Careers

The study of biology is of benefit not only to those intending to pursue a career in science, but also to those intending to work in areas such as the food, health or manufacturing industries.