The purpose of the Course is to build on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed in Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology, and to provide a useful bridge towards further study of biology. The Advanced Higher Biology Course covers key aspects of life science at the molecular scale and extends to aspects of the biology of whole organisms that are among the major driving forces of evolution. In addition, the Advanced Higher Biology Course aims to develop a sound theoretical understanding and practical experience of experimental investigative work in biological science.
The Course has three mandatory Units, as listed below, which are designed to provide progression to the corresponding Units at Advanced Higher
Biology. Biology: Cells & Proteins (Advanced Higher)
The Unit covers the key areas of laboratory techniques for biologists; proteomics; protein structure, binding and conformational change; membrane proteins; detecting and amplifying an environmental stimulus; communication within multicellular organisms; protein control of cell division. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Biology: Organisms & Evolution (Advanced Higher)
The Unit covers the key areas of field techniques for biologists; evolution; variation and sexual reproduction; sex and behaviour; parasitism. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Biology: Investigative Biology (Advanced Higher)
The general aim of this Unit is to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to carry out research and practical investigations. This will emphasise the principles and practice of investigative biology and its communication. Learners will do this through the key areas of scientific method; scientific literature and communication; scientific ethics; pilot study; variables and minimising their effect; experimental design; controls; sampling; ensuring reliability; evaluating background information, evaluating experimental design; evaluating data analysis and evaluating conclusions. The collection of experimental data will provide an opportunity to develop planning and organising skills. Learners will research issues and apply scientific skills which will develop their scientific literacy. This Unit can be integrated across the other Units of the Course. The Unit covers the key areas of scientific principles and process; experimentation; critical evaluation of biological research.
