What will I learn?

Through studying this course, you will develop the following:

  • An understanding of the world around us and how we impact upon;
  • An appreciation for the human body and the bodies of other organisms;
  • An in depth analysis of living things from the micro to the macro;
  • A respect for the scientific method and a respect for evidence;
  • Critical thinking skills.

What is the structure of the course?

All students on Higher Level and Standard Level will study the following core topics:
Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Human Physiology.

Higher Level students will also study these additional topics:
Nucleic Acids, Metabolism, Cell Respiration and Photosynthesis, Plant Biology, Genetics and Evolution, Animal Physiology.

In addition to this, both SL and HL students study one out of a choice of four additional topics. These are:
Neurobiology and Behaviour, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ecology and Conservation, Further Human Physiology.

Higher and Standard Levels

Part 1: Knowledge

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: 

  • facts, concepts, and terminology;
  • methodologies and techniques;
  • communicating scientific information.

Part 2: Apply

Apply:

  • facts, concepts, and terminology;
  • methodologies and techniques;
  • methods of communicating scientific information.

Part 3: Formulate, analyse and evaluate

Formulate, analyse and evaluate:

  • hypotheses, research questions and predictions;
  • methodologies and techniques;
  • primary and secondary data;
  • scientific explanations.

Part 4: Investigation 

Demonstrate the appropriate research, experimental, and personal skills necessary to carry out insightful and ethical investigations.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment

Higher Level

Standard Level

Part 1: Knowledge 

External – Paper 1 (1 hour) – 40 multiple choice questions (20% of final grade)

External – Paper 1 (0.75 hours) – 30 multiple choice questions (20% of final grade)

Part 2: Apply

External – Paper 3 (1.25 hours) – Data based, short answer and extended response questions (24% of final grade)

External – Paper 3 (1 hour) – Data based, short answer and extended response questions (20% of final grade)

Part 3: Formulate, analyse and evaluate

External – Paper 3 (1.25 hours) – Data based, short answer and extended response questions (24% of final grade)

External – Paper 3 (1 hour) – Data based, short answer and extended response questions (20% of final grade)

Part 4: Investigation

Internal (10 hours) – An investigation and write-up, usually 6-12 pages in length (20% of final grade)

Internal (10 hours) – An investigation and write-up, usually 6-12 pages in length (20% of final grade)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which CAS opportunities are available?
Science Club, Extra-Curricular Trips, Debating Club.

Which opportunities for further study are available?
Studying Biology will open doors to many fascinating and rewarding careers and opportunities to study further. Biology will be a perfect starting point if you wish to study medicine, biotechnology, nanotechnology, nursing, biomedicine, veterinary science, dentistry, forensics, physiotherapy and many more.