Group 4 - Biology HL & SL
Why study Biology?
Recently, the Biological Sciences have undergone enormous expansion, especially in the molecular realm. The role of biology in providing answers to the recent pandemic has highlighted the necessity to be scientifically literate but also the need for collaboration between the sciences (e.g biophysics and biochemistry as well as computer science). Biology is an applicable science used in wide-ranging careers (radiology, bioengineering, environmental officer).
The IB course covers microscopic and macroscopic themes such as cell biology and ecosystems. Continually relating these to social, ethical and economic issues, the IB course spurs students into reflecting upon the processes that shape and control life on Earth and how they are interdependent.
The IB Biology Course
The IB Biology programme at BISC aims to:
- Provide opportunities for scientific study and creativity within global contexts, which stimulate and challenge students.
- Provide a body of knowledge and methods / techniques which characterise science and technology.
- Develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise scientific information.
- Develop experimental and investigative scientific skills with an emphasis on collaboration and communication.
- Raise awareness of the moral / ethical, social, economic and environmental implications of using science and technology and its limitations.
The syllabus for the Diploma Programme Biology course is divided into three parts: the core, the Advanced Higher Level material and the Scientific Investigation as outlined in the table below.
|
SYLLABUS CONTENT |
RECOMMENDED TEACHING HOURS |
|
|
SL |
HL |
|
|
Form and Function |
26 |
39 |
|
Interaction and Independence |
31 |
48 |
|
Continuity and Change |
34 |
60 |
|
Experimental work |
40 |
60 |
|
Total hours |
131 |
131 + 76 |
Standard Level (SL)
6 lessons of teaching per fortnight
|
Length of paper |
Content |
% of total grade |
|
Paper 1 A + B 1.5 hours |
Multiple choice questions and data based questions related to the course themes |
36% |
|
Paper 2: 1.5 hours |
Data response and extended response questions on core topics and AHL material |
44% |
|
Scientific Investigation |
Students will be assessed on one piece of coursework. There will be 10 hours available to complete this task. |
20% |
|
Practical & Group 4 Project |
Students are also expected to complete an additional 40 hrs of practical work as well as 10 hours on the group 4 project. |
N/A |
Additional Higher Level (HL)
6 SL + 4 HL lesson of teaching per fortnight
|
Length of paper |
Content |
% of total grade |
|
Paper 1 A + B 2 hours |
Multiple choice questions and data based questions related to the course themes for SL and HL content |
36% |
|
Paper 2: 2.5 hours |
Data response and extended response questions on core topics and AHL material |
44% |
|
Scientific Investigation |
Students will be assessed on one piece of coursework. There will be 10 hours available to complete this task. |
20% |
|
Practical & Collaborative Science Project |
Students are also expected to complete an additional 40 hrs of practical work as well as 10 hours on the group 4 project. |
N/A |
Scientific Investigation Criteria
|
Research Design |
Data Analysis |
Conclusion |
Evaluation |
Total |
|
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
24 |
Entry Requirements
It is suggested that students have studied IGCSE/GCSE Biology and Maths previously in order to take this course. Chemistry is a preferred addition as the course contains a lot of biochemistry content.
Entry to Standard Level Biology - Students should have a minimum of Grade 5 in IGCSE/GCSE Biology and Maths.
Entry to Higher Level Biology - Students should have a minimum of Grade 7 in IGCSE/GCSE Biology and Grade 6 in Maths.