Biology

Stage 1 Biology is offered as a 10-credit subject in each semester of Year 11. Students are encouraged to complete both semesters (20 credits) to continue into Year 12 Biology (Stage 2).

The study of Biology is constructed around inquiry into and application of understanding the diversity of life as it has evolved, the structure and function of living things, and how they interact with their own and other species and their environments.

Students investigate biological systems and their interactions, from the perspectives of energy, control, structure and function, change, and exchange in microscopic cellular structures and processes, through to macroscopic ecosystem dynamics. These investigations allow students to extend the skills, knowledge, and understanding that enable them to explore and explain everyday observations, find solutions to biological issues and problems, and understand how biological science impacts on their lives, society, and the environment. They apply their understanding of the interconnectedness of biological systems to evaluate the impact of human activity on the natural world.

RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND: 

Working at or above standard (a C grade or better) in the Year 10 Science.

CONTENT

The following topics provide the framework for learning in Stage 1 Biology:

Semester 1

• Cells and microorganisms
• Infectious disease

Semester 2

• Multicellular organisms
• Biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics

ASSESSMENT

Students are assessed using the SACE Performance Standards.

Assessment at Stage 1 is school based.

There are two assessment types:

• Investigations Folios (practical investigations and Science as a Human Endeavour investigations)
• Skills and Application Tasks (topic tests and/or examination)

Students complete three or four assessment tasks per semester in Stage 1 Biology, as outlined in the Learning and Assessment Plan (LAP).

SUBJECT PATHWAY

Biology is offered as a 10-credit subject in each semester of Year 11, giving students the option to study it for one or both semesters.

Successful completion of this subject leads to: Stage 2 Biology

Students intending to study Stage 2 Biology are strongly encouraged to complete both semesters of Stage 1, particularly Semester 2, as it builds essential background knowledge and skills. A full year (20 credits) of Stage 1 Biology with a B grade or higher is recommended for success at Stage 2.

Students should investigate whether tertiary study requires Stage 2 Biology as a prerequisite or assumed knowledge.