Level 2 Biology

PURPOSE: This course is for students who have enjoyed Level 1 Science and would like to continue to study Biology. As a field of Science, Biology helps us understand the living world and the ways its many species (including humans) function, evolve and interact. Advances in medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and many other areas of biology have brought improvements in the quality of life.

COURSE OUTLINE: You will study a mixture of external and internal Achievement Standards. This course is eligible for subject endorsement.

In this course there are two externals. One is on the study of genetics, how genes interact with each other, DNA etc.  Understanding genetic factors and genetic disorders is important in learning more about promoting health and preventing disease.

The other is on Cell biology and how things happening at the microscopic level keep you alive. Cell biologists working in animal, plant and medical science will be able to develop new vaccines, more effective medicines, plants with improved qualities and through increased knowledge a better understanding of how all living things live.

The other two assessments in this course are internals. One is a practical investigation on enzyme activity. The other involves learning about the gas exchange of different types of animals. For this internal assessment, students will design, conduct and interpret scientific research. 

As half the assessments in this course are externals, it is expected that students are prepared to carry out independent study as necessary, prior to formal assessments.