AH Biology

Course Content

Check out the YASS Courses on:

• Maths for Science

• Introducing Statistics

Cells and Proteins

This unit builds on understanding of the genome from Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology. Students will learn about proteomics, protein structure, binding and conformational change; membrane proteins; detecting and amplifying a stimulus; communication within multicellular organism and protein control of cell division. The study of protein is primarily a laboratory-based activity and includes important laboratory techniques for biologists.

This skills-based sequence covers health and safety considerations, through the use of liquids and solutions, to a selection of relevant separation and antibody techniques. In addition, much work on cell biology is based on the use of cell lines, so it includes techniques related to cell culture and microscopy.

Organisms and Evolution

This builds on understanding of selection in the context of evolution and immune response from Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology. Students will learn about evolution; variation and sexual reproduction; sex and behaviour and parasitism. It covers the role of sexual reproduction and parasitism in the evolution of organisms. Biological variation is a central concept in this topic.

This unit covers suitable techniques for ecological field study. Methods of sampling and the classification and identification of organisms are introduced. Evolution is considered from the impact of drift and selection on variation. The study of sexual behaviour provides opportunities to use the techniques of ethology. There are opportunities to explore the systems approach required for the understanding of parasite biology. In addition, there are many opportunities to explore wider ethical issues relating to the importance of scientific knowledge and its application in challenging social and economic circumstances.

Investigative Biology

This unit builds on understanding of the scientific method from Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology. Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of investigative biology and its communication. The unit covers scientific principles and processes, experimentation and critical evaluation of biological research and can be delivered as part of the other topics.

Students will do this through the key aspects of the scientific method, literature and communication and ethics; pilot studies, variables, experimental design, controls, sampling and ensuring reliability; evaluating background information, experimental design, data analysis and conclusions. The collection of experimental data will provide an opportunity to develop planning and organising skills.

Project

Learners will apply skills of scientific inquiry, using related knowledge, to carry out a meaningful and appropriately challenging task in biology and communicate findings.

Assessment

• Internal written assessments at the end of each unit.

• Internal assessment of practical skills within each unit.

• A practical/research a project.

• External examination at the end of the course.

Career Paths

• Biochemistry

• Biological Sciences Immunology

• Biomedical Sciences

• Microbiology

• Pharmacology

• Biology Teacher

• energy and power provision

• environmental consultancy

• research and development

• Speech & Language Pathology

• scientific publishing