Higher Human Biology

Why study Human Biology?

Human Biology has wide range of appeal and interest because of its relevance to people. The course is designed to teach you about both Cell Biology and Human Biology. In particular, the course will apply this learning to health and medicine.

The skills you learn in Human Biology are useful in further study or careers in the life sciences.

What do I need to get in?

You would be expected to have achieved a grade A – C pass at National 5 in Biology.

Studying Maths at Higher level is recommended.

Crash higher is an option for candidates who have shown an aptitude to learning in other Sciences.

Course Content: What will I learn?

The course consists of three areas of study.

Human cells

Key areas covered are:

Division and differentiation in human cells; structure and replication of DNA; gene expression; mutations; human genomics; metabolic pathways; cellular respiration; and energy systems in muscle cells.

Physiology and health

Key areas covered are:

Gamete production and fertilisation; hormonal control of reproduction; the biology of controlling fertility; antenatal and postnatal screening; the structure and function of arteries, capillaries and veins; the structure and function of the heart (CVD); and blood glucose levels and obesity.

Neurobiology and immunology

Key areas covered are:

Divisions of the nervous system and neural pathways; the cerebral cortex; memory; the cells of the nervous system and the neurotransmitters at synapses; non-specific

body defences; specific cellular defences against pathogens; immunisation; clinical trials of vaccines and drugs.

Teaching – what will you do?

Much of the course will be teacher-led but you will also be involved in a variety of tasks including practical experiments & investigations, written work, research and presentation tasks.

How will I be assessed?

The course assessment has three components totalling 140 marks:

· Component 1: question paper 1 (multiple choice) – worth 25 marks

· Component 2: question paper 2 – worth 95 marks

· Component 3: assignment – worth 20 marks.

For the assignment component, you will be asked to research and report on a topic. The research stage must involve experimental work which allows measurements to be made.

The grade awarded is based on the total marks achieved across course assessment.

The course assessment is graded A-D.

Homework

You will be given regular homework tasks, e.g. practice questions, research and revision tasks.

Progression – what can you do next?

Students who achieve a pass in Higher Human Biology at grade A-B can progress to Advanced Higher Biology in S6.

A pass in Higher Maths A-C is recommended.

Careers

Human Biology qualifications are essential for many careers including Medicine, Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Sports Sciences, Radiography and many more.