WHAKATAUKI:

Ko te ao koiora, he hononga tāngaengae
the world of biology is a web of connections

This whakatauki emphasises the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living things,
reflecting the essence of biological studies that explore the relationships and interactions within the natural world.

KAUPAPA Year 12:

• This course seeks to build up an understanding of the living world around us and discuss interactions at the levels of molecules, genes, organs, organisms and communities

• Students will strengthen their practical investigation skills as a means of investigating the living world

KAUPAPA Year 13:

• This course seeks to build up a knowledge of the living world around us through an understanding of how gene manipulation and evolutionary processes operate 

• Student will gain an understanding of how the human body continues to operate despite changing internal and external conditions

• Students will strengthen their independent practical investigation skills as a means of investigating the living world

• This course seeks to build up an understanding of the living world around us. It builds on the content offered in Level 2 Biology and has a particular focus on:​

  • Human physiology and homeostasis

  • Evolution and speciation

  • Biotechnology

  • Current issues in Biology

YEAR 12 PREREQUISITES:    

• TBC: Likely 10 Credits in L1 Science, Including CB1.3 Genetics and strength in English

YEAR 13 PREREQUISITES:    

• 12 Credits in Level 2 Biology + strength in literacy skills, or demonstration of high academic success

YEAR 12 COURSE CONTENT:

• Ecology and Cell Processes: How cells and organisms interact with each other and use their adaptations to carry out life processes and survive

• Genetics: Inheritance of traits, expression of DNA, protein synthesis

• Gas Exchange: how diverse organisms use their adaptations to gain oxygen and remove carbon dioxide

YEAR 13 COURSE CONTENT:

• Students will investigate human homeostasis through discussion and experimentation

• Students understand how evolutionary processes shape plants and animals, including humans

• Students will further their understanding of genetic expression and apply this to human-directed gene manipulation contexts

• Students will select an issue in Biology that they will investigate and ultimately form their own response and societal plan

YEAR 12 COSTS:

• Moeraki fishing expedition TBC, in 2023 this was approximately $200

• All other field trips (Respiratory Physiology, Ecology Field trip): $0

• Scipad workbook charge: approx $30

YEAR 13 COSTS:

• Snorkelling with DiveOtago TBC, in 2023 this was funded by STAR

• All other field trips (Cardiology Physiology, Biotechnology): $0

• Biology workbook charge: approx $30

FUTURE STUDIES / CAREER OPTIONS:

• Marine biology, 

• genetic engineering, 

• health sciences (medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, medical laboratory science), nursing, 

• forestry, 

• teaching, 

• conservation, 

• cancer research, 

• biotechnology, 

• forensic science, 

• neuroscience