Standard Grade Biology
Topics Taught
Standard Grade Biology has seven areas of study. These are Biosphere (studies on organisms their interactions and how man is interfering), Cells, How Animals survive, The Human Body, its systems and mechanisms, The World of Plants, which includes details of propagation and life cycles, how we inherit our characteristics, a study in genetics, and finally a look at modern techniques involving micro-organisms in industry, entitled Biotechnology
Homework
Homework is set and varies between 30 minutes in S1 to 1 hour per week in the second year course. Sometimes it will be reading the text book in preparation for the next activity, and at other times it will be filling in a work sheet or finishing off the writing of an experiment started in class. Introduction to internet searches are encouraged at this stage.
Assessments (Internal and External)
In S1 there is an end of topic test for each of the three units of study and an end of year Examination in May. In between there will be numerous opportunities for the pupils to express themselves in written and verbal situations providing an early chance to put right any weaknesses exposed.
Next Steps
Once a Standard Grade is achieved, the prospect of Highers in Human Biology and in Biology can be contemplated for those who gain a credit grade in Knowledge and understanding. For those who gain General level, the Intermediate 2 course is offered.