What is it and why should I do it?
Biology is, simply, the study of life. Less simply, it is the study of the complex network of events that exist as a result of all the physical and chemical principles of the universe which lead to self replicating, energy exchanging organisms that, in some rare circumstances, generate the wonderful, inexplicable organisational by-product we call consciousness.
You should study Biology if you have any interest in the big questions. Where do we come from? What does it mean to be alive? What is the meaning of life? Can we use the past to predict the future, not just of our species, but of all living things on this planet (and possibly others)? And the wonderful thing about a Science based subject, is that you will investigate these questions in a practical, hands on, evidence driven way. You will be the Scientist. You will use your curiosity, your creativity, and your analytical skills to discover new things about the living world.
As of 2022, you will be using 3/4 Biology to find out more about disease, evolution, genetic engineering, and human modification. You will be asked to develop a framework for discussing the ethics of science, and be informed by your own, and alternate cultural perspectives. By the end of the course, you will be an informed, thoughtful, and skilled scientist with a perspective spanning the 3.8 billion years of life on this planet.
How much homework/study will I have?
All Unit 3 and 4 subjects require 3-5 hours of study per week.
The homework for this subject will be guided by your teacher, and will revolve around Edrolo activities and videos. It is expected that students maintain/develop a set of notes and resources for their own revision purposes.
What contributes to my study score?
There are 5 SAC's, each worth 10% of the overall Study Score for 3/4 Biology (for a combined 50%). The end of year external exam is worth 50%.
The SAC's run throughout the first three terms, and are outlined as follows;
- Unit 3 OUTCOME 1: The ethics of genetic engineering
A discussion of how to pursue an ethical course of action using CRISPR as a gene editing tool - Unit 3 OUTCOME 2: Photosynthesis exeperiments
A report of three practical activities - Unit 4 OUTCOME 1: Reflection of an immunological case study
A diagrammatic analysis of how the human immune system responds to disease - Unit 4 OUTCOME 2: Analysis of evolution
An analysis of primary data to explain changes in a population due to evolutionary pressures. - Unit 4 OUTCOME 3: Enzyme extended investigation
Design and undertake an investigation related to cellular processes and/or biological change and continuity over time, and present methodologies, findings and conclusions in a scientific poster (related to enzymes).
How do I satisfactorily complete the unit?
To pass any VCE unit you need to demonstrate that you have met the Outcomes.
To meet the outcomes in 3/4 Biology students must:
- Engage in class discussions, experiments, and class based activities
- Complete interactive notes (provided in class and on wiki) on a weekly basis
- Satisfactorily engage in the SAC tasks OR demonstrate content knowledge through the completion of Edrolo exercises.