Biology

Course Description

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. It focuses on developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills in order to understand and support the natural environment. 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.

Main Topics Covered

Particular Course Requirements

Both the Year 11 and 12 Biology courses comprise of four modules each. Integrated within each year is a Depth Study which must be allocated 15 hours within the 120 indicative course hours. A depth study is any type of investigation/activity that a student completes individually or collaboratively that allows the further development of one or more concepts found within or inspired by the syllabus. It may be one investigation/activity or a series of investigations/activities. It maybe, but is not limited to:

• A practical investigation or series of practical investigations and/or a secondary-sourced investigations.

• Presentations, research assignments or fieldwork reports.

• The extension of concepts found within the course, either qualitatively and/or quantitatively.

Practical investigations are also an essential part of Biology course and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time, including time allocated to practical investigations in depth studies each year.

Assessment: HSC Course