Whangarei Girls’ High School

Year 11 Science - Biology (THIS COURSE IS NOW FULL FOR 2025, PLEASE CHOOSE ANOTHER COURSE)

Course Description

In this course students will explore the diversity of life ranging from single celled bacteria to more complex species. They will investigate the life processes of microorganisms and the beneficial and harmful effects that they have on the human body. We also consider DNA as the basis for genetic inheritance. This course aims to develop students’ research skills as they independently find and process information about disease in humans, and to build their ability to communicate effectively in written form as preparation for senior biology.

Learning Opportunities

In this course you will need to:

Develop these skills:	Explore this content:
Scientific skills - how to develop, carry out, and interpret the results of scientific investigations.	The diversity of life: from bacteria to fungi, plants to animals - what are the links between these diverse life forms? How have they adapted to the challenges of life?
Reading & writing - how to interpret texts to build understanding and communicate this in written form.	Different types of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses) and their way of life, including culturing samples.
Research skills- independently finding and processing information to develop and share knowledge.	Beneficial and harmful effects of microorganisms on the human body, including disease-causing pathogens.
	DNA as the universal code shared by all living things, exploring how traits are passed on in a species and how changes to DNA affect offspring.
	Use knowledge of genetics and advances in technology to identify genetic relationships through the use of gene tracking methodology.

Year Levels/Departments:

Year 11, Science

Resources Required

Science Book - 1B8 exercise book
Level 1 Scipad Micro book 1.9 Genetic Variation is recommended