Biology

The Biology department is made up of dedicated and knowledgeable teachers who are genuinely passionate about the life sciences. Our aim is to spark curiosity and deepen understanding of the natural world through engaging, well-structured lessons that combine theory with practical work.

Students explore a wide range of topics, from human biology and genetics to ecology and evolution, all while developing essential skills in scientific thinking, analysis, and problem-solving. We place a strong emphasis on active learning, encouraging pupils to ask questions, think independently, and make connections between what they learn in the classroom and the world around them.

Whether students are preparing for exams, considering careers in science, or simply interested in how life works, we provide a supportive environment that challenges them to achieve their best.

Broad & General Education Course (S3)

S3 Biology builds on the work pupils studied at Level 3 in S1 / S2 and should encourage pupils to develop a curiosity and understanding of their environment and biological systems, through engagement with topical science and involvement in practical sessions.

The course has been carefully planned to ensure it prepares pupils for learning in S4 National Biology. We aim to make the course enjoyable for pupils, to spark a deep interest in biology and encourage pupils to continue with the subject beyond S3.

The topics to be covered up to Level 4 are:

· Unit 1: The World Around Us. An exciting and engaging topic where we look at animal adaptations and behaviour as well as how both animals and planet depend on each other. The impact of human population changes over the past 50 years is also explored. Never has this part of the course been more relevant to young people!

· Unit 2: Building Blocks of Life. It’s all in the name! We explore cell division, enzymes and the exciting world of genetics through DNA and the associated fields. In the second half of this we touch upon how plants make their own food through Photosynthesis; how micro-organisms can both help and hinder us and delve into science’s most controversial topics in a research project.

· Unit 3: Living Machines. We discuss the reproduction methods of different plant and animal species; the uses of plants and delve deeper into genetics and how different organisms are able to grow and develop.

Pupils are tested regularly using examination standard questions. They are made aware of their progress and how they can improve throughout the course, moving towards learning in the senior phase, where they will take SQA examinations.

Homework Expectations

In progress

Extra-Curricular & Wider Achievement

BLURB

Supported Study Sessions & Revision Websites

BLURB

Pathways, Wider Skills Development, DYW & Careers

BLURB

Senior Phase (S4-S6)

National 4

We currently run National 4 Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and general Science, providing students with a solid grounding across key scientific disciplines. To successfully complete a course, students must pass an assessment for each unit and complete a practical investigation write-up, known as LO1, which demonstrates their experimental and analytical skills. In addition, students must complete an Added Value Unit (AVU) project, where they research and report on a scientific topic, applying their knowledge and skills in a more independent and in-depth task.

In N4 Biology pupils cover the following:

National 4 Biology - Course overview and resources - SQA

National 5

National 5 Biology, Chemistry, and Physics courses provide pupils with a deeper understanding of key scientific concepts and how they apply to the world around us. Each subject focuses on developing scientific knowledge, practical skills, and analytical thinking. Pupils are assessed through a combination of internal and external assessments. During term time, they complete a practical assignment, where they plan, carry out, and report on an experiment. At the end of the year, pupils sit a final SQA exam that tests their understanding, application, and problem-solving abilities across the course content.

In National 5 Biology pupils cover the following:

In Higher Biology pupils cover the following:

Higher Biology - Course overview and resources - SQA

In Higher Human Biology pupils cover the following:

Higher Human Biology - Course overview and resources - SQA

In Advanced Higher Biology pupils cover the following:

Advanced Higher Biology - Course overview and resources - SQA

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