(SCQF Level 5)

The National 5 Biology course allows learners to understand and investigate the living world in an engaging and enjoyable way. It develops their abilities to think analytically, creatively and independently, and to make reasoned evaluations.

The aim of this Course if s to develop skills of scientific inquiry, and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding. These skills, knowledge and understanding of biology are developed through a variety of approaches and in the context of each of the three main areas of the course.

Learners will benefit from working at National 5 level in English and mathematics to help support their learning in biology at this level.

Practical activities are undertaken in the classroom and outdoors in the school grounds. Learners research issues and communicate information related to their findings, which develops skills of scientific literacy.

The course content includes the following areas of biology, across three units of work:

Cell biology: the key areas covered are: cell structure; transport across cell membranes; DNA and the production of proteins; proteins; genetic engineering; respiration.

Multicellular organisms: the key areas covered are: producing new cells; control and communication; reproduction; variation and inheritance; transport systems — plants; transport systems — animals; absorption of materials.

Life on Earth: the key areas covered are: ecosystems; distribution of organisms; photosynthesis; energy in ecosystems; food production; evolution of species.

The National 5 Biology course is externally assessed, by a written paper set and marked by the SQA.