“Biology informs us as to where we came from, how we continue to interact with the environment, and where our relationship with the environment is going. Through Biology we can aspire to create a better more sustainable world for our children”

Aims of the course

It is the aim of all the Diploma Programme experimental science courses and in particular of Biology to:

• provide opportunities for scientific study and creativity within a global context that will stimulate and challenge students

• provide a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize biology and the biological sciences

• enable students to apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology

• develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise scientific information

• engender an awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities

• develop experimental and investigative skills

• develop and apply the students’ information and communication technology skills in the study of science

• raise awareness of the moral, ethical, social, economic and environmental implications of using science and technology

• develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations associated with science and scientists

• encourage an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and the overarching nature of the scientific method.

The HL Biology course also provides a sound foundation for further study of Biology at University

Course Outline

The Standard Level course consists of 6 core topics: Cells, Biochemistry, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, and Human Physiology, along with an ‘option’ topic of further human physiology, whilst the Higher level course contains all of these elements as well as DNA and protein synthesis, Respiration and Photosynthesis, Plant Biology, Further Genetics, and Animal Physiology. Students of SL and HL are also required to produce an assessed piece of coursework which will usually take the form of a practical investigation carried out independently, worth 20% of the final grade.

By following the course, students will have engaged with the attributes of the IB learner profile. For example, the requirements of the internal assessment provide opportunities for students to develop every aspect of the profile.

Assessment Outline

Internal Assessment: 20% (SL and HL)

Exams

End of year 13:

• Paper 1
  Multiple choice questions
  SL 45mins, 20%, HL 1hr, 20%
  

• Paper 2

  • SL: Data-based question,

    • Short-answer and extended-response questions on core material,

    • One out of two extended response questions to be attempted by candidates.

75 minutes, 40%

• • HL: Data-based question, Short-answer and extended-response questions on core and AHL material, Two out of three extended response questions to be attempted by candidates.
    135 minutes, 36%
    

• Paper 3

  • SL Section A: candidates answer all questions, two to three short-answer questions based on experimental skills and techniques, analysis and evaluation, using unseen data linked to the core material. Section B: short-answer and extended-response questions from one option.
    1hr, 20%

  • HL As above, but duration of 75mins, worth 24%