Biology (G10)

Science has given humans the most widely accepted understanding of how the world around us works. We believe that this understanding should be used for ‘building peace and a sustainable future’. Through our Science options, students will critically engage with global issues, exploring research and data through a scientific lens as a way of solving problems and supporting innovation. Students will appreciate how using science specific terminology and the scientific method can lead to evidence-based conclusions which have a role in personal and societal decision making.

In Biology, students will explore the complex relationships between our environment and living organisms and use a systems thinking approach to develop their understanding of the interconnectedness of the natural world. Students will engage with bioethical issues that affect us on a local and global level and explore how this informs policy relating to sustainable development.

With a strong emphasis on experimentation and through an inquiry based approach, Biology students will deepen their understanding of the world by developing scientific investigative skills. Students will explore tools and techniques specific to Biology, as well as methodologies that are common across all three sciences. These include developing an understanding of the Nature of Science, including the ability to apply the scientific method, and critique and analyse information from different sources.

Course Aims

Develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of scientific thinking and the scientific method in both local and global contexts (e.g. in peace building).
Appreciate the role of science in solving challenges faced by society by becoming informed about local and global issues through a scientific lens
Develop conceptual understandings in science using science specific terminology precisely and applying the scientific method accurately.
Communicate effectively the connections between conceptual understandings, experimental methods, tools and techniques within scientific contexts.
Develop an awareness of the ethical, environmental, and cultural/social impact of science, leading to evidence based conclusions.
Appreciate how a scientific approach (world view) allows exploration of personal identity and can enhance wellbeing.
Develop an interdisciplinary approach that allows connections to be made between different areas of Science & the UWCSEA learning programme.

Course Outline

B11: Systems in balance

B12: Transporting the essentials of life

B13: Diseases and immunity

B14: Nucleic acids

B15: Inheritance and biotechnology

Skills Developed

The science course options will focus on students developing:

Collaboration within groups in classwork, project work and practical work
Communication and presentation of scientific concepts and the scientific method
Hands on practical skills and techniques in the laboratory
Analytical skills of patterns and trends in data
Critical thinking around application of scientific understanding
Creativity in designing independent investigations and solving problems

Assessment

There will be a variety of assessments, both formative and summative, that vary in their form and purpose. These will include assessment through practical skills, extended responses to conceptual questions, communication in science, project work, laboratory and anticipated field work, and tests of knowledge and understanding.

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