Quakers Hill High School

A caring educational community shaping a positive future

Telephone02 9837 1533

Emailquakershil-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Biology

Course number(s):

  • 11030 Biology (2 units – Year 11)
  • 15030 Biology (2 units – Year 12)

Prerequisites: Nil

Corequisites: Nil

Pattern of study: A student may count up to:

  • Year 11: Six units of Science
  • Year 12: Seven units of Science

to satisfy pattern of study requirements for the HSC.

Course description

The Year 11 course investigates cellular structure and provides a basis for understanding the way in which multicellular organisms transport and absorb nutrients and carry out gas exchange. Exploring variations in the structures and functions of organisms provides an understanding of the effects of the environment on living things and on biodiversity.

The Year 12 course investigates reproduction, inheritance patterns and the causes of genetic variation in both plants and animals. Applications of this knowledge in biotechnology and various genetic technologies are explored in the light of their uses in the treatment, prevention and control of infectious and non-infectious diseases.

Students who have shown an achievement in, and/or aptitude for, any of the Stage 6 Science courses: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Investigating Science or Physics, in Year 11 may choose to study Science Extension in Year 12.

What students learn

Year 11 course

The Year 11 course consists of four modules:

  • Module 1 Cells as the Basis of Life
  • Module 2 Organisation of Living Things
  • Module 3 Biological Diversity
  • Module 4 Ecosystem Dynamics

Year 12 course

The Year 12 course consists of four modules:

  • Module 5 Heredity
  • Module 6 Genetic Change
  • Module 7 Infectious Disease
  • Module 8 Non-infectious Disease and Disorders