Biology
Year 12
Prerequisites Completion of a Diploma Prep course in Biology, reaching a minimum of Stage 3, is required for direct entry to NCEA Biology. Students not meeting these requirements should speak to the HoD for conditional entry. Description The Level 2 Biology course is one that students find both interesting and challenging. It is at this level that students realise just what a diverse and important subject Biology is, and how its skills are applied in many different careers. Some boys will have their minds on medicine or conservation as a career, while others are keeping their options open, contemplating doing a science degree at tertiary level. It is important that before too much specialisation takes place, the students see the full scope of Biology, and it is at the Year 12 level that this process begins in earnest. Although students are accepted if they have not completed a Prep Biology Course or other Science course, they should expect to complete extra work to supplement their knowledge. The year begins with an ecology focus and involves a trip to the Craigieburn area, where the assessment takes place. In addition, the course this year includes: • An extended laboratory practical investigation • Cell biology and detailed microscope work • DNA, genetic variation and gene expression • Adaptations of organisims in relation to survival It is important that students understand that Biology can be studied at the molecular level (DNA, enzymes and metabolic pathways), the
cellular level, the body system level, and an ecological level. Assessment The course contributes towards NCEA Level 2, with 12 of the 23 credits externally assessed through examination, and the remaining 11 credits internally assessed. The following Achievement Standards will be assessed: • AS 91153 (4 credits – internal) Carry out a practical investigation in a biological context. • AS 91155 (3 credits – internal) Demonstrate understanding of adaptation of plants or animals to their way of life. • AS 91156 (4 credits – external) Demonstrate understanding of life processes at the cellular level. • AS 91157 (4 credits – external) Demonstrate understanding of genetic variation and change. • AS 91158 (4 credits – internal) Investigate a pattern in an ecological community. • AS 1159 (4 credits – external) Demonstrate understanding of gene expression. This course demands a high level of effort and attention to detail, where students develop more confidence in their ability to think logically and express their ideas clearly. Boys considering any biology-based course in preparation for their future career will benefit hugely from the Level 2 Biology course.
20 NCEA Course Booklet 2025
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