BIO201

Level 2 Science - Biology (BIO201)

Course Description

Teacher in Charge: Miss D. Holt.

Biology is a fascinating subject, relevant to many careers. 

In Level 2 Biology students learn about the unique ecology of Aotearoa and the impact we have on this.

They investigate essential processes at the cellular level in plants and animals through a variety of practical work. 

Students also build on the knowledge of genetics and variation gained in level 1 science, investigating patterns of inheritance and studying population genetics.


Course Overview

Term 1
INVESTIGATE A PATTERN IN AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY WITH SUPERVISION
AS 91158 v2
Credits: 4, Internally Assessed

In this unit you will:
- gain a broad understanding of concepts related to ecology
- develop skills in analysing data
- explore the communities in which Aotearoa's endemic species are found
- explore the impact of human activities on these communities

This unit includes an education session at Zealandia.

Term 2
DEMONSTRATE UNDERSTANDING OF LIFE PROCESSES AT THE CELLULAR LEVEL
AS 91156v2
Credits: 4, Externally assessed
CARRY OUT A PRACTICAL INVESTIGATION IN A BIOLOGY CONTEXT, WITH SUPERVISION
AS 91153 v2
Credits: 4, Internally assessed

This term you will:
- learn about the components of plant and animal cells
- investigate how materials are transported into and through the cell
- investigate the role of enzymes
- investigate cell processes such as respiration, photosynthesis and the cell cycle
- build on the investigative skills learned in Year 11
- carry out a variety of practical investigations

Term 3
DEMONSTRATE UNDERSTANDING OF ADAPTATION OF PLANTS OR ANIMALS TO THEIR WAY OF LIFE
AS 91155 v2
Credits 3, internally assessed

In this unit you will carry out research and write a report on gas exchange that compares the adaptations of insects, fish and mammals living in an aquatic habitat.

DEMONSTRATE UNDERSTANDING OF GENETIC VARIATION AND CHANGE
AS 91157 v2
Credits: 4, Externally assessed

This unit builds on your genetics knowledge from Year 11. You will extend your understanding of:
-meiosis
-mutation
-inheritance
- natural selection
- genetic drift

Term 4
REVISION AND PREPARATION FOR NCEA EXAMS

Recommended Prior Learning

Biology 201 builds on knowledge and skills learned in Year 11 Science. It is recommended that students have passed CB 1.3 to proceed to Level 2 Biology. 

Level 1 literacy is a requirement.

Contributions and Equipment/Stationery

1 x 1B5 exercise book
Scipad – can be purchased through the College - cost TBC
Zealandia Field trip cost TBC

Pathway

Assessment Information

The course offers 3 internally assessed achievement standards and 2 externally assessed achievement standards. Students are able to gain up to 19 credits at level 2. Students can gain endorsement with Merit or Excellence in Biology.

Disclaimer

POLICY
It is the policy of Sacred Heart College Lower Hutt to have school-wide policies that inform parents and students of the criteria for administering all Assessments for National Qualifications.