Advanced Higher Biology

Why Biology?

Advanced Higher Biology covers a wide range of biological topics which build on concepts developed in Higher Biology or Higher Human Biology. The course content forms the basis for study in applied fields of Biology and further study or employment in areas related to Biology. It also enables you to develop understanding of the ways in which biological principles can be applied to the issues facing the individual and society and fosters positive attitudes to others and the environment. In addition, the course provides opportunities for you to improve your problem solving and investigative skills and develop your practical abilities.

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

·         Higher Biology or Higher Human Biology units or course.

Course Outline

The course is made up of two mandatory 40 hour units, a 20 hour investigation and one 20 hour unit.  In addition there are 40 hours of flexible time.

Mandatory Units

Cell and Molecular Biology

In this unit you will study

·         structure, function and growth of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

·         structure and function of cell components

·         molecular interaction in cell events

·         applications of DNA technology.

Environmental Biology

In this unit you will study

·         circulation in ecosystems

·         interactions in ecosystems

·         human impact on the environment.

Biology Investigation

You will have the opportunity to select a topic for in-depth study.

Optional Unit

Animal Behaviour

In this unit you will learn about

·         measuring behaviour

·         development of behaviour

·         behavioural interactions.

Core Skills

·         H Problem Solving (Critical Thinking, Planning and Organising, Reviewing and Evaluating)

·         H Numeracy (Using Graphical Information)

Assessment

To gain the award you must complete the units which are internally assessed by your teacher/lecturer in accordance with SQA guidelines.

The course is assessed by an external examination, set and marked by the SQA. The investigation report is also externally assessed.

Progression

Successful completion of this course may lead to:

SGA at Higher in

·         Science

Education (HNC/HND/Degree); Training (VQ); Employment in

·         Animals Land & Environment

·         Hairdressing & Beauty

·         Health & Medicine

·         Manufacturing Industries

·         Science & Mathematics

·         Social, Caring & Advisory Services

·         Sports & Leisure.

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