Intermediate 2 Biology

Why Biology?

This course is designed to help you to develop knowledge and skills which will form a basis for further study or employment. The course develops an understanding of the way in which biological principles can be applied to issues facing the individual and society and encourages positive attitudes to others and the environment. It therefore makes a useful contribution to your general education and personal development.

Entry to the Course

This is at the discretion of the school but you would normally be expected to have attained one of the following

·         Standard Grade Biology with Knowledge and Understanding and Problem Solving at Grades 3 or 4

·         Intermediate 1 Biology units or course

·         Standard Grade Physics, Chemistry or Science with Knowledge and Understanding and Problem Solving at Grades 1 to 3.

Course Outline

The course consists of three 40 hour units and 40 hours flexible time.

Living Cells

This unit involves the study of

·         structure and function of cells

·         diffusion and osmosis in plant and animal cells

·         enzyme action

·         aerobic and anaerobic respiration

·         photosynthesis

Environmental Biology and Genetics

This unit involves the study of

·         ecosystems

·         factors affecting variety in species.

Animal Physiology

This unit involves the study of

·         mammalian nutrition

·         control of the internal environment

·         circulation and gas exchange

·         sensory mechanisms and processing of information.

Core Skills

·         Int.2 Problem Solving (Critical Thinking, Planning and Organising , Reviewing and Evaluating )

·         Int.2 Numeracy ( Using Graphical Information )

Assessment

The course is assessed by a combination of internal assessment by the teacher/lecturer and an external examination, set and marked by the SQA.

Progression

Successful completion of this course may lead to:

Higher in

·         Biology

·         Biotechnology

·         Human Biology

·         Managing Environmental Resources

A Scottish Group award at Intermediate 2 in

·         Science

·         Land and Environment

Education and Training (NC/VQ); Employment in

·         Animals, Land and Environment

·         Hairdressing and Beauty

·         Health and Medicine

·         Manufacturing Industries

·         Science and Mathematics

·         Social Care and Advisory Services

·         Sports and Leisure

Further advice and information on these options is available from your subject teacher, guidance teacher/adviser and careers adviser.