12 Biology

SACE Stage 2: 20 Credits / 2 Semesters / Science

SACE Website: https://www.sace.sa.edu.au/web/biology

Pre-Requisite: An achievement level of ‘B’ or better in one of the subjects below:

Stage 1 Biology A and/or Biology B (this is strongly recommended)
Stage 1 Psychology A and/or Psychology B
Stage 1 Chemistry
Stage 1 Physics

SUBJECT OVERVIEW

The study of Biology is constructed around inquiry into and application of understanding the diversity of life as it has evolved, the structure and function of living things, and how they interact with their own and other species and their environments.

In their study of Biology, students inquire into and explain biological phenomena and draw evidence-based conclusions from their investigations into biology-related issues, developments, and innovations.

Students explore the dynamic nature of biological science and complex ways in which science interacts with society, to think critically and creatively about possible scientific approaches to solving everyday and complex problems and challenges. They explore how biologists work with other scientists to develop new understanding and insights, and produce innovative solutions to problems and challenges in local, national, and global contexts, and apply their learning from these approaches to their own scientific thinking.

In Biology, students integrate and apply a range of understanding, inquiry, and scientific thinking skills that encourage and inspire them to contribute their own solutions to current and future problems and challenges. Students also pursue scientific pathways, for example, in medical research, veterinary science, food and marine sciences, agriculture, biotechnology, environmental rehabilitation, biosecurity, quarantine, conservation, and ecotourism.

Topics include

DNA and proteins
Cells as the basis of life
Homeostasis
Evolution

ASSESSMENT

In 2025 there are multiple options for assessment, as Biology or Scientific Studies. Scientific Studies students will complete the same learning tasks but will have a different set of assessment tasks, the most significant difference being a collaborative inquiry instead of an exam. This choice does not have to be made as part of the subject selection process, but should be discussed between student, family and teacher.

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 2 Biology:

School assessment

Assessment type 1: investigations folio (30%)
Assessment type 2: skills and applications tasks (40%)

External assessment

Assessment type 3: examination (30%)

Students provide evidence of their learning through eight assessments, including the external assessment component.

Students complete:

At least two practical investigations
One investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour
At least three skills and applications tasks
One examination (external)

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 2 Scientific Studies:

School assessment

Assessment type 1: inquiry folio (50%)
Assessment type 2: collaborative inquiry (20%)

External assessment

Assessment type 3: individual inquiry (30%)

Students provide evidence of their learning through seven assessments, including the external assessment.

Students complete:

One inquiry folio, comprising:
- Three tasks with a focus on science inquiry skills
- One investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour
- One individual inquiry design proposal
One collaborative inquiry
One individual inquiry

Additional Information

Costs: Essentials Biology Workbook $60 (optional but recommended)

To be successful in this subject, completion of Biology A & B in Stage 1 to a B standard or better is highly recommended as well as ongoing and significant study outside of the classroom.

All subject costs are subject to approval, are approximate and subject to change in 2025.

Last updated: July 2024

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