12 Biology

12 Biology

Mā te whakaaro nui e hanga te whare; mā te mātauranga e whakaū - Big Ideas create the house; knowledge maintains it

Biology is the scientific study of life. And there is so much of life to study! This course will cover a range of biological concepts and skills, designed to give you an overview of what the different fields in Biology are all about. These will include features of ecological systems and how organisms interact within them, the anatomy and physiology associated with how mammals carry out life processes, the structure and function of cells and DNA, and how our genetics determine physical features and behaviour. We will examine how biological ideas (such as DNA vaccines) can be subject to disinformation, and how we can use biological knowledge to critique these. We will incorporate Māori perspectives on genetics, along with concepts such as kaitiakitanga and whakapapa.

You will be designing and carrying out practical investigations in the field, making observations, analysing data, researching and connecting biological concepts to your findings, communicating information in depth, and critiquing biological information already in the public view. There will be a particular focus on developing transferable skills such as statistical literacy and information literacy as well as reading, writing, problem solving and analytical thinking. You will be required to make decisions about your learning and will be expected to question, marvel at, be curious about, and enjoy the wonders of our incredible living world!

This course includes compulsory and optional standards, so some individual course design is possible (including the selection of some contexts); however, you should be aware that pieces of extended writing and external examinations will be part of the course. Field trips are an integral part of Biology, so you should also be prepared to fully participate in these - accommodations will be made to ensure that all students can attend and participate.