Biology

2 units for each of Year 11 and Year 12 Board Developed Course

Course Description:

The Year 11 course investigates cellular structure and provides a basis for understanding the way in which multicellular organisms transport and absorb nutrients and carry out gas exchange. Exploring variations in the structures and functions of organisms provides an understanding of the effects of the environment on living things and on biodiversity.

The Year 12 course investigates reproduction, inheritance patterns and the causes of genetic variation in both plants and animals. Applications of this knowledge in biotechnology and various genetic technologies are explored in the light of their uses in the treatment, prevention and control of infectious and non-infectious diseases.

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 required to design and conduct biological investigations both individually and collaboratively.

The Biology course builds on students’ knowledge and skills developed in the Science Stage 5 course and increases their understanding of Biology.

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.

Main Topics Covered:

Year 11 Course

The Year 11 Course modules include:

  • Module 1 – Cells as the Basis of Life

  • Module 2 – Organisation of Living Things

  • Module 3 – Biological Diversity

  • Module 4 – Ecosystem Dynamics

Year 12 Course

The Year 12 course builds upon the knowledge from the Year 11 Course.

The Year 12 Course modules include:

  • Module 5 – Heredity

  • Module 6 – Genetic Change

  • Module 7 – Infectious Disease

  • Module 8 – Non-infectious Disease and Disorders

Particular Course Requirements:

  • 15 hours in Year 11 and 15 hours in Year 12 will be allocated to a depth study. During this time students may undertake an investigation/activity that allows for the further development of one or more scientific concepts. A depth study may be one investigation/activity or a series of investigations/activities. Depth studies may be included in one module or across several modules.

  • Practical investigations including both first-hand practical investigations and secondary-sources investigations are mandatory in Year 11 and Year 12. These must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time each year. Students are required to keep records of all scientific investigations.

  • Fieldwork is also mandated in Year 11 and is an integral part of the learning process.

  • All science courses have presumed knowledge requirements from Years 7 – 10.

  • Students selecting Biology will need to have achieved strong results in Year 10. Students also need to be proficient in Mathematics.

School Fees: Nil