In Stage 2 Biology, students continue to develop and extend their understanding of 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.
Recommended background
20 credits of Stage 1 Biology at a C grade or better. A solid understanding of Stage 1 Biology content is vital.
Content
Stage 2 Biology is a 20-credit subject. The topics at Stage 2 are:
Students study all four topics. The topics can be sequenced and structured to suit individual groups of students.
Assessment
Most assessment at Stage 2 is school based, but moderated by the SACE Board. The external exam is assessed externally.
Students undertake two practical investigations and one investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour. They complete four skills and applications tasks.
Students undertake an online examination to assess inquiry skills and science understanding from all Stage 2 Biology topics studied. The examination requires students to demonstrate understanding of science as a human endeavour and apply science understanding from all four topics.
The weightings for the 8 assessment tasks is:
Future pathways
Successful completion of Biology at Stage 2 prepares students for entry to tertiary courses where biological content knowledge is assumed or a prerequisite for enrolment.
Careers linked with this course include medical research, veterinary science, food and marine sciences, agriculture, biotechnology, environmental rehabilitation, biosecurity, quarantine, conservation, and ecotourism.
CARE • COMMITMENT • CO-OPERATION • RESPECT
