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IB Biology

There are no formal prerequisites for students undertaking the Biology course.

Aim

Biology is the study of life. An interest in life is natural for humans; not only are we living organisms ourselves, but we depend on many species for our survival, are threatened by some and co-exist with many more. Biologist attempt to understand the living world at all levels using many different approaches and techniques. At one end of the scale is the cell, its molecular construction and complex metabolic reactions. At the other end of the scale, biologist investigate the interactions that make whole ecosystems function. Through studying biology, students become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterises this subject.

Syllabus Component
Description

Core

  • Cell Biology

  • Molecular Biology

  • Genetics

  • Ecology

  • Evolution and Biodiversity

  • Animal Physiology

Additional HL Topics

  • Nucleic Acids

  • Metabolism, Respiration and Photosynthesis

  • Plant Biology

  • Genetics and Evolution

  • Animal Physiology

Option Topics

One of the following:

  • Neurobiology and Behaviour

  • Biotechnology and Bioinformatics

  • Ecology and Conservation

  • Human Physiology

Practical Scheme of Work

Prescribed and other practical activities Individual investigation Group 4 project

 

Standard Level: Internal Assessment: (20%) Individual Investigation

External Assessment: (80%) Examinations at the end of the second year. Paper 1 (45 mins) (20%) Paper 2 (1 hour 15 mins) (45%) Paper 3 (1 hour) (20%)

Higher Level: Internal Assessment: (20%) Individual Investigation

External Assessment (80%) Examinations at the end of the second year. Paper 1 (1 hour) (20%) Paper 2 (2 hours 15 mins) (36%) Paper 3 (1 hour 15 mins) (24%)

 


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