Qualification aims and objectives

Biology is the study of life.  The vast diversity of species makes biology both an endless source of fascination and a considerable challenge.  Biologists attempt to understand the living world at all levels from the micro to the macro using many different approaches and techniques.  Biology students are empowered to make sense of living systems through unifying themes.

By studying biology, students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other.  While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterises the sciences. Teachers provide students with opportunities to design investigations, collect data, develop manipulative skills, analyse results, collaborate with peers and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Course outline

1. Demonstrate knowledge of: 

• terminology, facts and concepts
• skills, techniques and methodologies.

2. Understand and apply: 

• terminology and concepts
• skills, techniques and methodologies

3. Analyse, evaluate and synthesise: 

• experimental procedures
• primary and secondary data
• trends patterns and predictions.

4. Demonstrate the application of skills necessary to carry out insightful and ethical investigations

Course Assessment

External assessment:

• Paper 1A: 40 multiple choice questions
• Paper 1B: Data-based questions (Paper 1A & 1B have a combined time of 2 hours, 36% )
• Paper 2: Data-based, short answer and extended response questions (2.30 hrs, 44%)

Internal assessment:

• Individual Investigation: Personal research, investigation and write up (20%)

What could I do with this course?

Through the overarching theme of the Nature of Science, the aims of the DP Biology course are to enable students to:

• Develop conceptual understanding that allows connections to be made between different areas of the subject, and to other DP sciences subjects
• Acquire and apply a body of knowledge , methods, tools and techniques that categorise science
• Develop the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise scientific information and claims
• Develop the ability to approach unfamiliar situations with creativity and resilience
• Design and model solutions to local and global problems in a scientific context
• Develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science
• Develop technology skills in a scientific context
• Develop the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively
• Develop awareness of the ethical, environmental, economic, cultural and social impact of science.