Biology

Course summary

Biology literally means “the study of life”. Biology examines the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of living things. The course includes studies at the molecular level, through to the cellular level, on to whole organisms and finally ecology, investigating organisms’ interactions with their environment. Saving threatened species, feeding people, genetically modified organisms, stem cell research, and curing diseases—the 21st century offers many challenges to a biologist. Which ones are you interested in meeting head-on? Biological knowledge is increasing at a prodigious rate. Studying biology gives you the skills and opportunities to advance human knowledge and understanding in today’s world, to make a difference to tomorrow’s world. Whether you decide to work in a laboratory, courtroom, hospital, ocean, zoo, classroom, TV studio or boardroom (to name a few) you can contribute a biologist. A background in biology gives you transferable skills and increases your career options. Biology is always relevant to life. Features of the Course Learning about Biology happens in a variety of ways—working sometimes in groups and sometimes on your own, but always with the support of your teacher. You will have plenty of opportunities to develop your practical skills. You will develop your skills at presenting, discussing, analyzing, writing, evaluating, dancing, and many more. Key topics studied 1. Biological molecules 2. Cells 3. Organisms exchange substances with their environments 4. Genetic information, variation, and relationships between organisms. 5. Energy transfers in and between organisms 6. Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments 7. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems 8. The control of gene expression