Year 12 Biology
Although next year timetables are yet to be finalised, course selection is now finished. Any changes to student courses will now take place in January.
Course Description
Teacher in Charge: Mrs A. McManaway.
This Biology course explores the living world, investigating ecological patterns and the reasons for them. It will explore animal and plant processes at the cellular level, leading to an understanding of DNA and genetics. The interaction of genetics and the environment in gene expression is then examined. It is useful and often essential for students intending to enter tertiary studies in biology, nursing, medicine, veterinary and related fields. It is also useful if you have an interest in furthering your general understanding of the living world.
Course Overview
Term 1
AS 91158
https://youtu.be/XFjoqyVRmOU
Students focus on the adaptations of living things and how these allow them to survive in their environment.
To provide a real life context for this topic students embark on a field trip to Tauranga Moana and collect data on the distribution of marine species.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQsa8J8AR3M
AS91154
Students analyse a variety of publications in one context and justify their assessment as to whether each article is biased, valid, evidence based and reliable. This is an excellent exercise in spotting mis and disinformation in the public arena.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFuEo2ccTPA
Students learn about the structure and function of cells, with an emphasis on the role enzymes play in our daily lives. There is a large practical component to this topic that brings the theory into real life contexts.
AS 91153
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrON0nEEWmo
Following on from the learning about cellular biololgy, students design carry out and report on an investigation into a cell process. How do you get a naked egg? Watch the video.
Term 2
AS 91157
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbLpZn4B7b0
Why do members of a species show variation? Its not just sex! Although that plays a part. Students will find the answer to this question through a study of inheritance, mutations and evolution by natural selection.
Term 3
AS 91159
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w82xpBR_Z4A
How does your body turn the food you eat into the human protein needed for growth and repair of damaged tissues? What happens when something goes wrong; do we really turn into X-men mutants? Does temperature really determine whether a turtle hatches male or female? Students learn the answers to these questions and so much more.
Term 4
NCEA Exam focus
Students learn strategies to help them read and understand exam questions. Develop exam techniques to scaffold their success in the NCEA external examinations.
Students are provided with a range of new activities that allow them to revise the topic material covered in Terms One – Three whilst practicing exam strategies.
Recommended Prior Learning
It is recommended that students gain at least an Achieved grade in the Genetics standard (AS92022) in Year 11 Science.
Pathway
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for subject endorsement.
External
NZQA Info
Biology 2.1 - Carry out a practical investigation in a biology context, with supervision
NZQA Info
Biology 2.2 - Analyse the biological validity of information presented to the public
NZQA Info
Biology 2.5 - Demonstrate understanding of genetic variation and change
NZQA Info
Biology 2.6 - Investigate a pattern in an ecological community, with supervision
NZQA Info
Biology 2.7 - Demonstrate understanding of gene expression
Pathway Tags
Acupuncturist, Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor, Registered Nurse, Agricultural/Horticultural Scientist, Agricultural/Horticultural Consultant, Paramedic, Anaesthetist, Anaesthetic Technician, Pathologist, Veterinary Nurse, Zoologist, Beekeeper, Chemist, Aquaculture Farmer, Zookeeper, Marine Biologist, Arborist, Medical Physicist, Audiologist/Audiometrist, Microbiologist, Beauty Therapist, Farmer/Farm Manager, Biochemist, Biomedical Engineer, Biomedical Technician, Biotechnologist, Biosecurity Officer, Phlebotomist, Brewer, Mechanical Engineer, Fishing Skipper, Cardiac Physiologist, Physician, Surgeon, Midwife, Dental Assistant, Science Technician, Podiatrist, Chiropractor, Medical Laboratory Scientist, Clinical Coder, Dental Technician, Community Karitane, Pharmacist, Dairy Farmer, Crop Worker, Crop Farmer/Crop Manager, Oral Health Therapist, Dentist, Medical Radiation Technologist, Diagnostic Radiologist, Dietitian, Dispensing Optician, Forensic Scientist, General Practitioner, Gynaecologist/Obstetrician, Psychiatrist, Dog Trainer, Geologist, Environmental Scientist, Environmental/Public Health Officer, Food Technologist, Forest Manager, Forestry Scientist, Pest Control Technician, Gardener, Agricultural Field Representative, Health and Safety Adviser, Health Promoter, Nursing Support and Care Worker, Naturopath, Veterinarian, Medical Laboratory Technician, Radiation Therapist, Nursery Grower/Worker, Occupational Therapist, Optometrist, Osteopath, Physiotherapist, Quarantine Officer, Radiation Oncologist, Speech-Language Therapist, Sterilising Technician, Water/Waste Water Treatment Operator,
Disclaimer
Note that picking a course doesn't guarantee entry.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the year level dean or the Future Pathways team for support and guidance.