12BI

Level 2 Biology

Subject Description

Teacher in Charge: Ms J. Clarke.

Welcome to NCEA Level 2 Biology, an exciting exploration of the living world and its fundamental processes! This course builds upon your Level 1 knowledge, taking you deeper into the realms of cell biology, genetics and adaptations. Explore the fascinating structures and functions of cells, understand the principles of inheritance and genetic variation, and discover the interactions between organisms and their environments. Engage in hands-on experiments that will enhance your scientific skills and critical thinking abilities. This course offers a captivating learning experience that will broaden your understanding of living systems, setting a solid foundation for further studies in biology and related fields. Get ready to embark on this thrilling journey of discovery and uncover the wonders of the natural world!



You will have 3 external examinations: 

  1. Cells - organelles, respiration, photosynthesis, cell transport, DNA structure, and mitosis 
  2. Genetic Variation - Causes of genetic variation, Mendelian genetics.
  3. Gene Expression - How are proteins made from DNA and nature or nurture.

There are also two internal assessments 

1. Practical investigation into an aspect of cell biology

2. How animals adapt to their environment in order to carry out an essential function


Recommended Prior Learning

Require a minimum of 12 credits from Level 1 Science which must include AS 90948 -  Demonstrate understanding of biological ideas relating to genetic variation.

You may not take this course AND Level 2 General Science.

Contributions and Equipment/Stationery

The opportunity to purchase revision and study workbooks through the school will be offered, but there is no obligation to purchase these. Suggestions for appropriate workbooks will be provided in the student information sheet issued at the start of the year. The cost is approximately $25.

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.

Total Credits Available: 19 credits.
Externally Assessed Credits: 12 credits.
Internally Assessed Credits: 7 credits.

Assessment
Description
Level
Internal or
External
Credits
L1 Literacy Credits
UE Literacy Credits
Numeracy Credits
A.S. 91153 v2
NZQA Info
Biology 2.1 - Carry out a practical investigation in a biology context, with supervision
4
4
4
4
Level: 2
Internal or External: Internal
Credits: 4
Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
University Entrance Literacy Credits: 0
Numeracy Credits: 0
A.S. 91155 v2
NZQA Info
Biology 2.3 - Demonstrate understanding of adaptation of plants or animals to their way of life
3
3
3
Level: 2
Internal or External: Internal
Credits: 3
Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
University Entrance Literacy Credits: 0
Numeracy Credits: 0
A.S. 91156 v2
NZQA Info
Biology 2.4 - Demonstrate understanding of life processes at the cellular level
Level: 2
Internal or External: External
Credits: 4
Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
University Entrance Literacy Credits: 4w
Numeracy Credits: 0
A.S. 91157 v2
NZQA Info
Biology 2.5 - Demonstrate understanding of genetic variation and change
Level: 2
Internal or External: External
Credits: 4
Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
University Entrance Literacy Credits: 4w
Numeracy Credits: 0
A.S. 91159 v2
NZQA Info
Biology 2.7 - Demonstrate understanding of gene expression
Level: 2
Internal or External: External
Credits: 4
Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
University Entrance Literacy Credits: 0
Numeracy Credits: 0
Credit Summary
Total Credits: 19
Total Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
Total University Entrance Literacy Credits: 8
Total Numeracy Credits: 0

Disclaimer

All subject selections are provisional only and are subject to:

  • meeting any course entry requirements
  • minimum class sizes
  • the availability of teaching staff

and the final decision is at the discretion of the Head of Learning Area for that subject.