S2 Biology
The Biology component of the 5-14 course in S2 is delivered by the department specialists in two blocks. The first block in the autumn term lasts about 8 weeks and includes classification and keys, microbiology, inheritance and variation, biotechnology and evolution. Pupils return to the department from their Physics and Chemistry courses for a second shorter block in the spring term. This covers the 5-14 learning outcomes on Reproduction.
Assessment for Reporting and the S3/4 course choices is based on the first block. (completion by February)
The aims of the course:
- To provide a stimulating course in line with the 5-14 guidelines that is sufficiently broad to give pupils a taste of as many aspects of current Biology as possible, thus informing them about Biology ahead of their course choice.
- To complete sufficient content in a relatively short time to allow valid assessment of KU for reporting and course choice.
- To enhance and then assess Investigative skills for reporting.
- To provide a range of material appropriate for all second year pupils bearing in mind that the expectation is that pupils are mostly working within levels E and F in second year.
S2 Course content:
First block
A class booklet is provided which builds into revision material for the KU
assessment. The first assessment covers levels C, D and E and a further
assessment covers the level F learning outcomes. Class work is supported by
homework sheets. Assessment of investigative skills is another part of this course.
- The pupils learn about the variation found within species, and the genetic basis for variation (chromosomes, genes and DNA and mutation).
- Identification of plants and animals using keys and simple plant and animal classification.
- Adaptation in plants and animals (dessert plants and animals).
- Micro-organisms (including growing bacteria) types of microbes and their importance in causing disease.
- Biotechnology (yeast and dairy products, food spoilage)
- Evolution and extinction.
Second block
This is a shorter course about Reproduction lasting about 4 weeks. The content is covered by a booklet and homework sheets. The pupils learn about sexual reproduction in animals and plants.