Advanced Higher Biology
Course information
The Advanced Higher Biology course is comprised of three units in addition to an individual investigation (project) which will be completed in school.
Units of study
Unit 1 Cells and Proteins
This unit builds on understanding of the genome from the Higher Biology courses. Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of proteomics, protein structure, binding and conformational change; membrane proteins; detecting and amplifying a stimulus; communication within multicellular organism and protein control of cell division.
Unit 2 Organisms and Evolution
This unit builds on understanding of selection in the context of evolution and immune response from the Higher Biology courses. Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of evolution; variation and sexual reproduction; sex and behaviour and parasitism.
Unit 3 Investigative Biology
This unit builds on understanding of the scientific method from Higher Biology. Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of investigative biology and its communication. This unit covers scientific principles and processes, experimentation and critical evaluation of biological research.
Investigation (project which will be completed in school)
The purpose of the project is to allow the student to carry out an in-depth study of a Biology topic. They will individually investigate the underlying biology of their chosen topic, as well as extend and apply the skills of independent /autonomous working. This will be written up as a scientific report and submitted to the SQA.
Assessment methods
The Advanced Higher Biology assessment consists of two main components: coursework and a final exam. The coursework includes a project worth 25% of the overall grade, where students conduct independent research, analyse data, and present findings in a scientific report. The final exam, accounting for 75% of the overall grade, is divided into two sections: Section 1 consists of 20 multiple-choice questions worth 20 marks, while Section 2 includes structured and extended-response questions assessing knowledge, application, and problem-solving skills, worth 80 marks. The assessment focuses on critical thinking, data analysis, and experimental design.
Entry requirements
An A or B pass in Higher Biology or Higher Human Biology.
Additional information
Course content will be delivered via Microsoft Teams online. Any supportive practical work and the Investigation project will be delivered offline in the individual school.
For further information, visit the SQA course overview and resources webpage.
