National 4
The Course develops skills in a biological context. Learners will gain an understanding of biology, and develop this through a variety of approaches, including practical activities.
The Course has four mandatory Units including the Added Value Unit. The first three Units listed below are designed to provide progression to the corresponding Units at National 5.
Unit 1 – Cell Biology (National 4)
In this Unit, learners will develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding in the context of cell biology.
The key areas covered are: cell division and its role in growth and repair, DNA, genes and chromosomes, therapeutic use of cells, properties of enzymes and use in industries, properties of microorganisms and use in industries, photosynthesis — limiting factors, factors affecting respiration, and
controversial biological procedures.
Unit 2 – Multicellular Organisms (National 4)
In this Unit, learners will develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding in the context of multicellular organisms.
The key areas covered are: sexual and asexual reproduction and their importance for survival of species, propagating and growing plants, commercial use of plants, genetic information, growth and development of different organisms, and biological actions in response to internal
and external changes to maintain stable body conditions.
Unit 3 – Life on Earth (National 4)
The key areas covered are how animal
and plants species depend on each other, impact of population growth and natural hazards on biodiversity, nitrogen cycle, fertiliser design and environmental impact of fertilisers, adaptations for survival, and learned behaviour in response to stimuli linked to species survival.
Added Value Unit: Biology Assignment (National 4)
In this Unit, learners will draw on and extend the skills they have learned from across the other Units, and demonstrate the breadth of knowledge and skills acquired, in unfamiliar contexts and/or integrated ways.
Conditions of Award
To achieve the National 4 Biology Course, learners must pass all of the required Units, including the Added Value Unit.
National 4 Courses are not graded.
