Biology
| SACE Code | 2BGY20 |
| Level | Stage 2 |
| Learning Area | Science |
| Duration | Year |
| Semester | Full Year |
| Pre-requisite | Stage 1 Biology assumed |
| Additional Costs | Travelling Costs to attend the practicals |
| SACE Credits | 20 |
Who is this course for?
Students who are interested in how biology impacts on our lives, society and the environment.
What will I learn?
Students will:
- Investigate how the diversity of life has evolved, the structure and function of living things and how they interact with their own and other species and their environment.
- Explore and explain everyday observations, find a solution to biological issues and problems, and understand how biological science impacts their lives, society, and the environment.
- Inquire into and explain biological phenomena and draw evidence-based conclusions from their investigations into biology-related issues, developments, and innovations.
- Explore how biologists work with other scientists to develop new understanding and insights and produce innovative solutions to problems and challenges in local, national, global contexts.
The course is constructed around four topics:
- DNA and Proteins
Heredity is an important biological principle as it explains why new cells or offspring resemble their parent cell or parent organism. Students investigate the structure of DNA and processes involved in the transmission of genetic material to the next generation of cells and offspring. Students relate gene expression to protein production and explore some of the many roles that proteins have in a functioning cell and organism.
- Cells as the Basis of Life
All cells possess some common features: all prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells need to exchange materials with their immediate external environment for maintaining the chemical processes vital for cell functioning. Students explain how the evolution of cells from simpler to more complex structures and functions may have occurred.
- Homeostasis
Students examine some of the body systems, including the nervous, endocrine, and excretory systems that play interdependent roles in the regulation of body processes such as body temperature, blood glucose levels, carbon dioxide levels in the blood, and water balance. Students examine how biotechnology has contributed to advances in the treatment of the malfunctioning of the nervous and endocrine systems.
- Evolution
Students examine the biological evidence that forms the basis for understanding the changes in species described in the theory of evolution by natural selection. Students investigate ways in which science contributes to the contemporary debate about local, regional, and global issues, including evaluation of risk and action for sustainability.
How will I be assessed?
You will demonstrate evidence of your learning assessed as Stage 2 through the following assessment types:
- Skills and Application Tasks (at least three times tests)
- Investigations Folio (including at least two practicals, one being design and deconstruct, and 1 Science as a Human Endeavour task).
- Two-hour external exam
Pre-requisite
Stage 1 Biology assumed
Cost
Travel and any associated costs to attend practical workshops held in Term 1 and Term 2 are the responsibility of the student.
Last updated: 31 July 2024
