Biology

ATAR- 2 units

Link to NESA Stage 6 Subject Syllabus 

Aim: Biology 11–12 aims to develop students’ understanding and appreciation of the diversity of living things, from the molecular level to macroscopic systems, and the interactions, interrelations and changes that occur in biological systems. It enables students to apply Working scientifically to examine the development of scientific knowledge through the scientific method, and explore the application of biological technologies in society. 

Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of Stage 5 Science. School report achievements of mostly A and B grades for Science.

Exclusions: Nil 

Cost: Excursion and field trip expenses 

Course Description:

The Year 11 course investigates cellular structure and provides a base for understanding the way in which multicellular organisms transport and absorb nutrients and carry out gas exchange. Exploring variations in the structures and functions of organisms provides an understanding of the effects of the environment on living things and how this leads to biodiversity.

The Year 12 course investigates reproduction, inheritance patterns and the causes of genetic variation in both plants and animals. Applications of this knowledge in biotechnology and various genetic technologies are explored in the light of their uses in the treatment, prevention and control of infectious and non-infectious diseases.

The course provides the foundation knowledge and skills required to study biology after completing school. 

Main Topics Covered:

Preliminary Course:                                        

The Year 11 course consists of 3 modules.    

• Cells as the basis of life

• Cells to systems

• Evolution and ecosystems                                      

   HSC Course:

The Year 12 course consists of 4 modules.

• Heredity

• Diseases

• Biodiversity

• Biotechnology

Particular Course Requirements:

Students are provided with 10 hours of course time for Depth Studies in both Year 11 and Year 12. During this time students may undertake an investigation/activity that allows for the further development of one or more scientific concepts.

A Depth Study may be one investigation/activity or a series of investigations/activities. Depth Studies may be included in one module or across several modules.

Scientific investigations are an essential part of the Year 11 and Year 12 courses. Each focus area includes content points that contain scientific investigations. These content points include practical investigations and secondary-source investigations and can be conducted individually or collaboratively. The term ‘investigation’ can refer to any systematic process of inquiry, analysis or exploration aimed at discovering, understanding or solving a problem. Investigations may take various forms depending on the nature of the investigation including:

• scientific investigations

• practical investigations

• laboratory experiments

• secondary-source investigations

 Assessment

Internal assessment throughout Year 11 and 12

External 3 hour examination Year 12

Employment / University Opportunities:

Biology, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Nursing, Environmental Science, NPWS, Teacher, Physiotherapy