Higher Biology (Course Code: C707 76)

SCQF Level 6 (24 SCQF credit points)

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Why study Biology?

Biology is the study of all living things, from the tiniest organisms to the largest lifeforms. You will learn how nature and the human body work, and how different forms of life eat, make energy and reproduce. You will also find out how Biology is helping to find solutions to world problems.

There are many career opportunities connected with biology, including medicine, nursing, dentistry, physiotherapy, food science, sport science, pharmacology and beauty therapy.

What do I need to get in?

Entry is at the discretion of the school or college but you would normally be expected to have:

What will I study?

This course allows you to develop a deeper understanding of the underlying themes of biology: evolution and adaption; structure and function; genotype and niche. Within each of the units, the scale of topics ranges from molecular through to whole organism and beyond. In all units you will develop analytical thinking and problem solving skills in context of each topic.

The course consists of three compulsory units and the assessment unit.

Biology: DNA and the Genome (6 SCQF credit points)

In this unit you will:

Biology: Metabolism and Survival (6 SCQF credit points)

In this unit you will:

Biology: Sustainability and Interdependence (6 SCQF credit points)

In this unit you will:

How will I be assessed?

Course Assessment (6 SCQF credit points)

The course assessment has two components:

The question paper will assess scientific enquiry skills, analytical thinking skills and the impact of applications on society and the environment.

For the assignment you will be required to choose a relevant topic to research and investigate and communicate your findings. 

Both the question paper and assignment will be set and externally marked by SQA.

Your work will be assessed by your teacher on an ongoing basis throughout the course. You must pass all three units and the course assessment to gain the course qualification.

The course assessment is graded A-D. Your grade will depend on the total mark for all the units in your course.

What can I go on to next?

If you complete the course successfully it may lead to:

Further study, training or employment in:

Which jobs are related to this subject?

Where can my parents find out more?


They can also read the information leaflet(s):

Highers in a Nutshell - Biology (CfE Higher)