CfE Higher Biology is available to S5/6 students who wish to develop their current knowledge, understanding and skills in Biology. The course is most suitable for students who have achieved well at National 5 Biology but may be appropriate for highly motivated students who have been successful in other science subjects.

Course Structure

• DNA and the Genome: The structure and replication of DNA, Gene expression, Genome
• Metabolism and Survival: Metabolism is essential for life, Maintaining Metabolism, Metabolism in microorganisms
• Sustainability and Interdependence: The science of food production, Interrelationships and dependence, Biodiversity.

The aims of the Course are to enable students to:

• develop and apply knowledge and understanding of biology
• develop an understanding of biology’s role in scientific issues and relevant
• applications of biology in society
• develop scientific inquiry and investigative skills
• develop scientific analytical thinking skills in a biology context
• develop use of technology, equipment and materials, safely, in practical
• scientific activities, including using risk assessments
• develop planning skills
• develop problem solving skills in a biology context
• use and understand scientific literacy to communicate ideas and issues and to make scientifically informed choices
• develop the knowledge and skills for more advanced learning in biology
• develop skills of independent working

Entry Requirements – achieve National 5 Biology.

Attendance – Six periods each week.

The course is assessed in two components:

• End of year exam (20 marks of MCQs and 80 marks of short and long answer questions; completed over 2 hours and 30 minutes) – 100 marks
• Assignment (Research a topic under guidance of the teacher, then to communicate your findings in a report which is written under exam conditions) – 20 marks