Biology is at the centre of all life and ākonga explore the living world, its ecology, plant and animal life processes, evolution, and relationships between biology and technology. Through this study, ākonga gain an understanding of themselves, the world, and how organisms survive and live together. They also develop essential scientific knowledge, methods and techniques. From here, ākonga are able to analyse scientific information effectively and discuss the wide range of implications science has on our world, including medical and environmental issues. Biology is a broad interest subject and is important for careers and in a variety of areas, from health through to forestry and zoology.
The Level 2 Biology course includes the essential knowledge of cellular structure and processes and genetics assessed by external exam. This knowledge is backed up with internal assessments on ecology, practical investigation skills, and research skills. A full-time course will be four or five standards, at least two of them externally assessed. To be able to successfully start Level 3 Biology, ākonga should have four standards, including AS91156 and one other external standard. If they want to carry out the Level 3 Biology practical investigation, they will need to complete AS91153. Recommended prior l earning: Level 1 standards Genetics and Microorganisms. A good level of literacy.
A good understanding of Genetics is recommended.
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