Philosophy - Why should I study Biology?

As one of the three natural sciences in the IB Diploma Programme, biology is primarily concerned with the study of life and living systems. Biologists attempt to make sense of the world through a variety of approaches and techniques, controlled experimentation and collaboration between scientists. At a time of global introspection on human activities and their impact on the world around us, developing and communicating a clear understanding of the living world has never been of greater importance than it is today. Through the study of DP Biology, students are empowered to make sense of living systems through unifying themes. By providing opportunities for students to explore conceptual frameworks, they are better able to develop understanding and awareness of the living world around them. This is carried further through a study of interactions at different levels of biological organization, from molecules and cells to ecosystems and the biosphere.

 Integral to the student experience of the DP Biology course is the learning that takes place through scientific inquiry. With an emphasis on experimental work, teachers provide students with opportunities to ask questions, design experiments, collect and analyse data, collaborate with peers, and reflect, evaluate and communicate their findings. DP Biology enables students to constructively engage with topical scientific issues. Students examine scientific knowledge claims in a real-world context, fostering interest and curiosity. By exploring the subject, they develop understandings, skills and techniques which can be applied across their studies and beyond.

Course Content - What will I be studying?

Grade 11

In the first year of DP Biology, students will learn the practical skills of experimental science and analysis and become familiar with IB expectations in terms of lab work. The course starts with Cell Biology, designed to provide an understanding of the structural units that make up the structure of all organisms. This is followed by the study of Biomolecules, from simple molecules that make up proteins, carbohydrates and lipids to complex macromolecules. In connection to the last topic Metabolism is then looked at, incorporating Enymes, Respiration and Photosynthesis. An Ecology unit is then completed, followed by an introduction to Body Systems. A residential ecology field trip forms part of the practical work at the end of second semester, which ensures that students are ready to undertake their Internal Assessment, which can be based on their Ecology fieldwork or lab work. In addition, towards the end of the second semester, all DP students need to actively participate in a joint science project (Collaborative Sciences Project) where the emphasis is on the co-operative process of science  with a global or local context, solving world wide problems - this is a student-directed project involving students from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Computer Science classes.

Grade 12

A thorough Genetics unit at the start of Grade 12 will give the students a basic knowledge of the genetic code and inherited characteristics and enable them to debate and come to understand some of the controversial issues of gene therapy and genetic engineering. This is followed by Biodiversity, the remainder of Human Physiology and a short look at Plant Science. Students also work on the Scientific Investigation which forms the internal assessment element of the course and is worth 20% of the final grade. In May, students sit two exam papers which account for the remaining 80% of their final grade in Biology. 

Assessment - How will I be assessed? 

Prerequisites - What do I need to know before choosing Biology? 

Completion of MYP Biology or an equivalent Biology or Combined/Co-ordinated Sciences course. To study Biology at HL for the Diploma, a ‘5’ in the MYP grading system, or a 7/8/9 in I/GCSE is generally required. For SL, an MYP 4  in Biology or a 5 or 6 in any I/GCSE Science course is an important prerequisite. 

What will allow me to be successful? 

• Be interested in and curious about the workings of the natural world

• Be willing to take risks and answer questions or give opinions

• Make notes in class rather than at home

• Do the Kognity readings and quizzes

• If you are new to the subject then pre-read the sections in Kognity

• Become a study partner with someone in the class

What can I do with Biology in the future? 

Careers directly related to Biology include medical professions, pharmacy, physiotherapy, biomedical engineering, research science (life sciences), microbiology, marine biology, conservation, and ecology, environmental management, food science, agricultural engineering and zoology.

The transferable skills developed would also be useful in a diverse range of careers including: law, business analysis, psychology (Biology is a requirement for some Psychology degrees).