Biology: National 4/5
Entry Requirements:
- N4: Achieving level 3 in S3.
- N5: Achieving level 4 in S3.
Course Content:
- In National 4/5 Biology, pupils will study Cell Biology, Life on Earth and Multicellular organisms. The course allows candidates to understand and investigate the living world in an engaging and enjoyable way. It develops candidates’ abilities to think analytically, creatively and independently, and to make reasoned evaluations.
- Unit 1: Cell Biology – Cell structure, transport across membranes, DNA and proteins, genetic engineering, respiration
- Unit 2: Multicellular Organisms – Cell division, control and communication, reproduction, variation, transport systems in plants and animals
- Unit 3: Life on Earth – Ecosystems, distribution of organisms, photosynthesis, food production, evolution of species
Assessment:
- Throughout National Science Courses, pupils are assessed throughout the year in various forms.
- All sciences engage pupils through both theory and practical work.
- Summative assessment:
Class tests – mid and end of unit
Practical assessments
- Homework and problem solving tasks
- Conditions of the course award. The grade awarded is based on the total marks achieved across all course assessment components.
- Component 1: question paper 100 marks 2 hours and 30 minutes Component 2: assignment 25 marks
- 8 hours of which a maximum of 1 hour and 30 minutes is allowed for the report stage — see course assessment section
- Please note for 2023 exams, assignments remain omitted from the course award assessment.
- Pupils are graded from A to D.
Progression Pathway:
