Course Outline
National 4 and National 5
The courses consist of knowledge, problem solving and experimental practical skills. You will develop scientific understanding of issues relating to biology, consequently becoming scientifically literate.
Both presentation levels will study the same three core areas of work and an assignment/research
1. Cell Biology
The key areas covered are: cell structure; transport across cell membranes; DNA and the production of proteins; proteins; genetic engineering; respiration.
2. Biology: Multicellular Organisms
The key areas covered are: producing new cells; control and communication; reproduction; variation and inheritance; transport systems — plants; transport systems — animals; absorption of materials.
3. Biology: Life on Earth
The key areas covered are: ecosystems; distribution of organisms; photosynthesis; energy in ecosystems; food production; evolution of species. ADDED VALUE UNIT: ADDED VALUE PROJECT/ASSIGNMENT
Learners will extend and apply their knowledge and skills through practical experimental work and research of enzyme activity.
Progression National 4 learners must have previously been successful at Level 3 and, if successful, can possibly progress onto National 5 (S5) and then Higher (S6) National 5 learners must have previously been successful at Level 4 or 5 and, if successful, can possibly progress onto Higher (S5) and then Advanced Higher (S6)
Assessment Requirements
• Continuous class and homework assessment
• Successful completion of internal assessments
• Completed Added Value Project
• No final SQA examination
• Continuous class and homework assessment
• Successful completion of internal unit assessments
• Completion of Added Value Assignment
• SQA Course Examination (2.5 hours)
Possible careers
• Marine biologist
• Doctor
• Biology Teacher
• Zoologist
• Environmental scientist
• Botanist
• Chemical Engineer
• Microbiologist
• Nurse
• Pathologist
• Dentist
• Vet
Links to further info
National 4 SQA - https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47422.html
National 4 Bitesize - https://www.bbc.com/bitesize/subjects/z3ykjxs
National 5 SQA - https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47427.html
National 5 Bitesize – https://www.bbc.com/bitesize/subjects/zync87h
Twitter: @StMungoScience