National 5 Biology

Who is this course for?

The course is suitable for learners who have experienced learning across the sciences experiences and outcomes. The course may be suitable for those in S5/S6 wishing to study biology for the first time.

This course has a skills-based approach to learning. It takes account of the needs of all learners and provides sufficient flexibility to enable learners to achieve in different ways.

Course content

The National 5 Biology course allows candidates to understand and investigate the living world in an engaging and enjoyable way. It develops candidates’ abilities to think analytically, creatively and independently, and to make reasoned evaluations. The course provides opportunities for candidates to acquire and apply knowledge to evaluate biological issues, assess risk, make informed decisions and develop an ethical view of complex issues. Candidates are able to develop their communication, collaborative working and leadership skills, and are able to apply critical thinking in new and unfamiliar contexts to solve problems.

The course content includes the following areas of biology:

Cell Biology

The key areas covered are: cell structure; transport across cell membranes; DNA and the production of proteins; proteins; genetic engineering; respiration.

Biology: multicellular organisms

The key areas covered are: producing new cells; control and communication; reproduction; variation and inheritance; transport systems — plants; transport systems — animals; absorption of materials.

Biology: Life on Earth

The key areas covered are: ecosystems; distribution of organisms; photosynthesis; energy in ecosystems; food production; evolution of species.

Skills, knowledge and understanding

  • demonstrating knowledge and understanding of biology by making statements, describing information, providing explanations and integrating knowledge

  • applying knowledge of biology to new situations, interpreting information and solving problems

  • planning, designing and safely carrying out experimental/fieldwork investigations to test given hypotheses or to illustrate particular effects

  • selecting information from a variety of sources

  • presenting information appropriately in a variety of forms

  • processing information (using calculations and units, where appropriate)

  • making predictions and generalisations based on evidence/information

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

  • suggesting improvements to experimental/fieldwork investigations

  • communicating findings/information

Homework

Homework will be issued on a regular basis, and at the teachers discretion.

All homework should be submitted on time so that marking and feedback can happen in a timely manner.

Recommended entry

Candidates should have studied Biology in S3 or S4.

Assessment and progression

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

  • question paper (80%) and

  • assignment (20%).

Those candidates who achieve a grade C or better in the course can progress to Higher Biology.

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.