IB | Biology (SL)(HL) – Leighton Park

Block 4

Course Overview

IB Biology can be studied at Higher Level and Standard Level.

You will need an interest in how the human machine works and be interested in how this machine can be understood on a cellular and molecular level. You will also study the interaction between humans and the environment and look at life on Earth and relationships between living things and the non-living environment. You will enjoy practical experimentation and have an eye for detail and an interest in graphs and statistics. At Standard Level the subject is accessible, even for those who have not studied Biology at GCSE, although GCSE Chemistry would be advised. At Higher Level, you will be equipped for further study. Many university courses which require Biology also require Chemistry at Higher Level.

In the Lower Sixth we study cell biology (and plant biology at Higher Level), molecular biology, human physiology and fieldwork.

In the Upper Sixth we study ecology and conservation, evolution and biodiversity and genetics.

Assessment

Three exam papers covering multiple choice, short answer and extended answer questions, with some data analysis components.

A practical project is worth 20% of the total marks.

Skills Gained on this Course

• The ability to assess the validity of biological information, experiments, inferences and statements and apply biological principles and concepts to unfamiliar situations, including those that relate to the ethical, social, economic and technological aspects of the subject
• An understanding of scientific method and the tentative nature of scientific knowledge
• The ability to interpret and translate from one form to another, data presented as continuous prose or in tables, diagrams, drawings and graphs
• The ability to organise relevant information clearly and coherently, using appropriate form, style and vocabulary.

The course teaches a range of practical skills and applies concepts to work-place examples. Biology is an accessible science for students whose main strengths are more arts or language based, as well as being an important subject for any student intending to pursue a science-based career in the future.

Beyond IB

Biology can lead to degree choices from anatomy to zoology and careers from medicine and microbiology to optometry and oceanography based anywhere from a laboratory to the Antarctic.

To find out more about this course please contact Head of Department: Gemma Sims.

To apply for our Sixth Form please see our Admissions page.