Advanced Higher Biology
The course is designed for candidates who can respond to a level of challenge, especially those considering further study or a career in biology and related disciplines.
The course emphasises practical and experiential learning opportunities, with a strong skills-based approach to learning. It takes account of the needs of all candidates and provides sufficient flexibility to enable candidates to achieve in different ways.
Deliverer
Harlaw and ST Machar Academy
Course Outline
This course is composed of the following 3 Units:
Cells and Proteins
Proteomics, protein structure, binding and conformational change; membrane proteins; detecting and amplifying a stimulus; communication within multicellular organisms and protein control of cell division. The Unit includes important laboratory techniques for biologists.
Organisms and Evolution
Evolution; variation and sexual reproduction; sex and behaviour and parasitism. This Unit covers techniques for ecological field study.
Investigative Biology
This Unit builds on understanding of the scientific method from Higher Biology. Learners 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.
Course Assessment
To gain the award of the Course, the learner must pass Course assessment. Course assessment will provide the basis for grading attainment in the Course award at levels A-D. The Course assessment is externally assessed and composed of the following two components:
Course assessment structure:
- Question paper – 100 marks
- Project – 30 marks
Links to Further information
Potential Pathways beyond this course:
NESCol Science
Robert Gordon School of Pharmacy & Life Sciences
University of Aberdeen School of Biological Sciences
