Southland Boys’ High School Southland Boys’ High School

NCEA Level 3 Biology

L3BIO
Course Description

Teacher in Charge: Mr S. Godfrey, Mrs J. Shannon.

Recommended Prior Learning

Entry Criteria

For entry into L3 Biology the student will have achieved in at least 14 credits at NCEA Level 2 Biology.  The following 8 credits must be included in these 14 credits - passed at least at Achieved level.

AS 91157 “Demonstrate understanding of genetic variation and change” 4 credits, externally assessed, and

AS91153” Practical Investigation in a Biological Context" 4 credits, internally assessed.

 


Biology is a subject for those anticipating a career in Life Sciences.

Level 3 Biology continues the themes of Level 2, focusing understanding of genetic change towards Speciation, and Evolution. 

In addition, students are introduced to the behaviours and responses of both plants and animals which allow species continuation and change.  

Students are actively encouraged through teaching and assessment to develop research and reporting skills transferable to many other disciplines.  

A practical investigation will be conducted during terms 1 and 2 involving analysis of physiological changes in homeostasis.



Learning Areas:

Science


Assessment Information

Internal Standards include Biology 3.1 (4 crd); Biology 3.2 (3 crd); Biology 3.4 (3 crd); Biology 3.7 (3 crd) are assessed using a mixture of open book and closed book assessments. There is no provision for reassessments.

External Standards include a selection from: Biology 3.3 (5 crd); Biology 3.5 (4 crd). External Standards assessed in November by way of formal written exam.

Students can request entry for Scholarship Biology and will be given access to resources to follow a self-teaching programme.

Career Pathways

Biochemist, Biotechnologist, Brewer, Science Technician, Medical Laboratory Scientist, Environmental Scientist, Ranger, Food Technologist, Forestry Scientist, Winemaker, Epidemiologist, Acupuncturist, Personal Trainer/Exercise Professional, Registered Nurse, Agricultural/Horticultural Scientist, Agricultural/Horticultural Consultant, Paramedic, Anaesthetist, Pathologist, Veterinary Nurse, Zoologist, Beekeeper, Chemist, Aquaculture Farmer, Zookeeper, Marine Biologist, Arborist, Medical Physicist, Meat/Seafood Process Worker, Audiologist/Audiometrist, Microbiologist


Contributions and Equipment/Stationery

• 1 x Binder and Refill
• Pens and pencils


Disclaimer

Southland Boys' High School endeavours to timetable courses depending on students' needs, interests and future plans.  Many factors can influence whether a course is able to be offered in the following year.  These can include:

These factors can also impact on timetabling, and as a result students will be asked for input about any clashes that may occur.

Where a course is not able to be run, students' back-up subjects will be used.  If there are issues with student selections and the timetabling process, students will have the opportunity to make a decision in conjunction with staff input on the best solution.