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.

Passing the external is an advantage

 

Level 3 Biology – Survival, Change & the Human Story

Biology is the study of life – how living things survive, adapt, and change. At Level 3 you’ll dive deeper into the big questions: How did humans evolve? How do animals and plants stay alive in extreme conditions? How are genetics and evolution shaping our world today?

You’ll get hands-on with a practical investigation in Term 1 and 2, testing and analysing how the human body maintains balance (homeostasis) when it’s pushed to the limit. Alongside this, you’ll explore how species adapt, compete, and evolve – with a strong focus on real-world issues like genetic technologies and human evolution.

Topics covered:

Biology 3.1 (A.S. 91601) - Internal

Practical Investigation – Carry out an experiment in a real biological context. This might include testing how the body responds to exercise or how organisms survive in different environments.

Hands-on science – get out of the textbook and into real experiments.


Biology 3.2 (A.S. 91602) - Internal

Socio-scientific Issue – Research and give an informed response on a big science issue in society, like vaccinations, gene editing, or climate change effects.

You’ll learn to argue your case with evidence, not just opinion.


Biology 3.4 (A.S. 91604) - Internal

Homeostasis – Understand how animals (including humans) keep things balanced: body temperature, hydration, and oxygen levels.

Vital for sport, farming, medicine – and survival in extreme conditions.


Biology 3.7 (A.S. 91607) - Internal

Genetic Transfer & Manipulation – Look at how humans use genetic engineering, cloning, and selective breeding, and what this means for food, health, and society.

Think GM crops, IVF, and designer genetics.


Biology 3.6 (A.S. 91606) - External

Human Evolution – Trace how humans have changed over millions of years, from ape-like ancestors to today.

You’ll explore fossils, skulls, and DNA clues to discover what makes us human.


Skills you’ll gain

  • Critical thinking – evaluating scientific and social issues

  • Practical investigation – designing, testing, and analysing experiments

  • Research and reporting – presenting findings clearly and logically

  • Understanding genetics, adaptation, and evolution

  • Communication – discussing science in real-world contexts

  • Teamwork and independence in scientific inquiry

Where can Biology take you?

Entry-level / low-income jobs (no tertiary required):

  • Animal care assistant / kennel worker

  • Farm worker / agriculture hand

  • Lab or hospital orderly

  • Conservation volunteer roles

  • Retail (pharmacy, outdoor/hunting/fishing stores)

Trades and vocational pathways:

  • Veterinary technician

  • Forestry / fisheries / aquaculture roles

  • Environmental monitoring technician

  • Agricultural/horticultural trades

  • Fitness and personal training

University and professional pathways:

  • Health sciences (medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, sports science)

  • Veterinary science

  • Conservation biology / ecology

  • Genetics and biotechnology

  • Teaching / science communication


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.