Biology

Course Content: 

Living Environment, Sustainability, Earth's Resources

Assessment: 

National 3/4 

• Internal Assessment (no final exam)

Why choose Environmental Science?

The purpose of the course is to develop candidates’ curiosity, interest and enthusiasm for

environmental science in a range of contexts. The skills of scientific inquiry are integrated

and developed throughout the course, as well as investigative and experimental skills

Course Content: 

The SCQF Level 5 Laboratory Science course gives learners a practical introduction to working in scientific labs. It focuses on core lab skills, safe working practices, preparing solutions, using equipment, carrying out chemical and biological tests, and measuring radioactivity. Learners also complete a practical investigation and develop key employability skills needed for science‑based industries. 

Assessment: 

• Assessment for the SCQF Level 5 Laboratory Science (Skills for Work) course is entirely practical and continuous, with no final exam. Each unit is assessed through a series of hands‑on tasks, observations, and short written or oral checks to confirm understanding. Learners must demonstrate safe working practices, correct use of equipment, accurate preparation of solutions, and the ability to carry out laboratory procedures. They also complete a practical investigation, which is assessed on planning, carrying out the experiment, recording results, and evaluating the process. All assessments are internally marked by the centre and externally verified by the SQA. 

Why choose ?

It’s a great choice if you enjoy practical, hands‑on science and want to learn real laboratory skills used in industry. The course builds confidence with equipment and experiments, develops strong employability skills, and provides a useful pathway into science‑related study or careers. 

Content

National 3, 4 and 5 Biology form a clear progression in understanding living systems, starting with simple ideas and building toward deeper scientific knowledge and skills. At National 3, learners explore the basics of cells, body systems and ecosystems through straightforward concepts and practical activities. National 4 adds more detail about cell processes, body systems, reproduction, inheritance, biodiversity and human impact, with learners completing an Added Value Assignment to apply their skills. National 5 develops these same themes in much greater depth, covering DNA, enzymes, respiration, genetics, physiology, ecosystems and evolution, while strengthening analytical, quantitative and investigative skills through a final exam and an Assignment. 

N5 Assessment

• 80% Final Exam

• 20% Assignment

No final exam/assignment in the N3/4 courses. All assessments are internally marked.

Why choose?

Biology is the study of all living things, from tiny microbes, to complex multicellular organisms such as human beings. If you are interested in learning about what happens inside living things, or how they interact with each other, then this subject is for you!

Content

In DNA and the Genome, pupils cover the structure and replication of DNA, gene expression, genome structure, mutations, and evolution. For Metabolism and Survival pupils study metabolism, respiration, how animals survive adverse conditions, and use of microbes and in Sustainability and Interdependence pupils will explore food supply, plant growth, animal welfare and behaviour, threats to biodiversity, In addition to the content listed above, you will also develop your scientific investigative, literacy and numeracy skills.

Assessment

• 80% Final Exam

• 20% Assignment

Why choose the Higher Biology course?

The Higher Biology course is for those that wish to go further in learning in areas such as protein synthesis, or who want to learn more about relevant world issues such as food security or stem cell research. Higher Biology is also a useful qualification to have as it complements many other subject areas and can lead to a range of future pathways.

Course Content: 

Higher Human Biology focuses on three major areas of human biology: Human Cells, Physiology and Health, and Neurobiology and Immunology. Learners study cellular processes such as DNA replication, gene expression, metabolic pathways and respiration; explore human physiology including reproduction, cardiovascular health, blood glucose regulation and fertility; and examine the nervous system, memory, behaviour, immunity and clinical trials. The course develops strong scientific inquiry skills through experiments, data analysis and evaluation, preparing learners for further study in life sciences. 

Assessment: 

• 80% Final Exam

• 20% Assignment

Why choose?

Choosing Human Biology is a smart move for anyone curious about how the body works, interested in health‑related careers, or simply wanting to understand themselves better. The subject sits at a sweet spot: it’s scientific, practical, and deeply connected to real life. 

The Foundation Apprenticeship in Scientific Technologies is designed to provide S5 and S6 pupils opportunities to develop skills and knowledge for entry into a career in the Science sector.