Does this subject contribute to an ATAR? Yes (General subject)
How many credits does this subject contribute towards QCE? 4
What is Biology?
Biology provides opportunities for students to engage with living systems.
Students develop their understanding of cells and multicellular organisms. They engage with the concept of maintaining the internal environment. They study biodiversity and the interconnectedness of life. This knowledge is linked with the concepts of heredity and the continuity of life.
Students learn and apply aspects of the knowledge and skills of the discipline (thinking, experimentation, problem-solving and research skills), understand how it works and how it may impact society. They develop their sense of wonder and curiosity about life; respect for all living things and the environment; understanding of biological systems, concepts, theories and models; appreciation of how biological knowledge has developed over time and continues to develop; a sense of how biological knowledge influences society.
Students plan and carry out fieldwork, laboratory and other research investigations; interpret evidence; use sound, evidence-based arguments creatively and analytically when evaluating claims and applying biological knowledge; and communicate biological understanding, findings, arguments and conclusions using appropriate representations, modes and genres.
What makes a student suited to Biology?
Students who achieve success in Biology are those who:
- have an interest in the living world
- enjoy creative scientific thinking and are able to apply their knowledge in practical situations
- are willing to commit to a high work ethic and commitment to study
What prerequisites must students meet in order to take this subject?
Year 9 - Minimum C standard for core Math, English and Science
Year 10 - Minimum C standard for core Math, English and Science
What is the cost of this subject?
There may be a cost associated with a field trip in year 10 (approximately $50) and camp in Year 12 (approximately $150)
What materials or equipment do I need for this subject?
- BYOD Laptop
- A4 exercise book for class use
What do students study in this subject and how are they assessed?
| | | Unit Overviews | Assessment |
| Year 10 | Semester 1 | Genes in action
Genetics
Cell Biology
| Data test (10%) Student experiment (15%) Examination (25%) |
| | Semester 2 | Biological evolution Molecular Biology
| Research investigation (25%) Examination (25%) |
| Year 11 | Unit 1 | Cells and multicellular organisms • Cells as the basis of life • Multicellular organisms
| Formative internal assessment 1: 25% • Examination
Formative internal assessment 2: 25%
• Student experiment
|
| | Unit 2 | Maintaining the internal environment • Homeostasis • Infectious diseases
| Formative internal assessment 3: 25% • Research investigation Formative internal assessment 4: 25% • Examination
|
| Year 12 | Unit 3 | Biodiversity and the interconnectedness of life • Describing biodiversity • Ecosystem dynamics
| Summative internal assessment 1 (IA1): 10% • Data test Summative internal assessment 2 (IA2): 20% • Student experiment
|
| | Unit 4 | Heredity and continuity of life • DNA, genes and the continuity of life • Continuity of life on Earth
| Summative internal assessment 3 (IA3): 20% • Research investigation Summative external assessment (EA): 50% • Examination
|