Biology

Course Type: Board Developed Course

Units: 2

Prerequisites: Students are recommended to have achieved a C grade or higher in Year 10 Science. A discussion with the Science Coordinator is necessary if you have not attained these grades. Biology is a content heavy course and understanding biological concepts and processes can be quite challenging.

Exclusions: N/A

The Biology Stage 6 Syllabus explores the diversity of life from a molecular to a biological systems level. The course examines the interactions between living things and the environments in which they live. It explores the application of biology and its significance in finding solutions to health and sustainability issues in a changing world.

Biology uses Working Scientifically processes to develop scientific investigative skills. It focuses on developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills in order to understand and support the natural environment. When working scientifically, students are provided with opportunities to design and conduct biological investigations both individually and collaboratively.

The study of Biology, which is often undertaken in interdisciplinary teams, complements the study of other science disciplines and other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related courses. Through the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, students are encouraged to solve problems and apply knowledge of biological interactions that relate to a variety of fields.

The Biology Course builds on the knowledge and skills of the study of living things found in the Science Stage 5 Course. The course maintains a practical emphasis in the delivery of the course content and engages with the technologies that assist in investigating current and future biological applications.

The course provides the foundation knowledge and skills required to study biology after completing school, and supports participation in a range of careers in biology and related interdisciplinary industries. It is a fundamental discipline that focuses on personal and public health and sustainability issues and promotes an appreciation for the diversity of life on the Earth and its habitats.

Modules in Year 11:

Module 1: Cells as the basis of life

Module 2: Organisation of things things

Module 3: Biological Diversity

Module 4: Ecosystem Dynamics

Depth Study: 15 hrs

Modules in HSC :

Module 5: Heredity

Module 6: Genetic change

Module 7: Infectious Disease

Module 8: Non-infectious Disease and Disorders

Depth Study: 15 hrs

HSC Exam

Scientific investigations include both practical investigations and secondary-sourced investigations. Practical investigations are an essential part of the Year 11 course and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time, including time allocated to practical investigations in depth studies.

Practical investigations include:

  • Undertaking laboratory experiments, including the use of appropriate digital technologies
  • Fieldwork

Secondary-sourced investigations include:

  • Locating and accessing a wide range of secondary data and/or information
  • Using and reorganising secondary data and/or information

One fieldwork exercise must be completed in Year 11

NSW Museum of Human Disease

Fieldwork carried out on the Rock platform

Fieldwork at Port Kembla

Looking at the Nervous System - Sheeps brains!

University / Careers

  • Bachelor Science
  • Bachelor Science Education
  • Bachelor Exercise Science
  • Bachelor Psychological Science
  • Bachelor Paramedicine
  • Bachelor Sports Science
  • Bachelor Nursing
  • Bachelor Biomedical Science
  • Bachelor Nutrition Science
  • Bachelor Marine Science
  • Bachelor Applied Science, Marine management
  • Bachelor Science Environmental
  • Bachelor of Conservation Science