Advanced Higher Biology Course Specification

• Course Code: C807 77
• Assessment Code: X807 77
• SCQF Level: 7 (32 SCQF credit points)
• Valid from: Session 2022-23

Purpose of Document

• Provides detailed information about course and assessment.
• Ensures consistent and transparent assessment yearly.
• Describes course structure and assessment in skills, knowledge, and understanding.

Usage

• Intended for teachers and lecturers.
• Contains mandatory information for course delivery.
• Information may be reproduced for non-commercial SQA qualifications; otherwise, permission required.

Course Overview

• 32 SCQF credit points, 160 hours to complete.
• Assessment Components:
  • Question Paper: 100 marks, scaled to 120, 3 hours.
  • Project: 30 marks, scaled to 40.

Entry Recommendations

• Discretion of the centre.
• Prior completion of the Higher Biology or Higher Human Biology course.

Progression Opportunities

• HND or degree in biology/related areas.
• Careers in biology-based disciplines.
• Further study, employment, and/or training.

Course Rationale

• Reflects Curriculum for Excellence values.
• Emphasizes flexibility, learning focus, personalisation, and choice.
• Integrative ideas and principles of modern biological science.
• Develops theoretical understanding and practical investigative work.
• Enhances communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.

Purpose and Aims

• Develops a systems approach to biological science.
• Encourages scientific literacy and rational decision-making.
• Promotes independent investigative work and creativity.
• Aims to extend and apply biology knowledge and skills.
• Applies scientific inquiry, experimental design, and problem-solving skills.

Target Audience

• Candidates with Higher Biology/Higher Human Biology or equivalent.
• Designed for candidates considering further study or a biology-related career.

Course Content

Cells and Proteins

• Laboratory techniques, membrane proteins, communication, and signalling.
• Protein control of cell division.

Organisms and Evolution

• Field techniques, evolution, and parasitism.

Investigative Biology

• Scientific principles and processes, critical evaluation of research.

Assessment Structure

• Question Paper: Assesses skills, knowledge, and understanding.
  • Multiple-choice and structured questions.
• Project: In-depth biology investigation.
  • Application of scientific inquiry and related knowledge.

Skills Development

Skills for Learning, Life, and Work

• Literacy, Numeracy, and Thinking skills.
• Integrated throughout the course.

Grading

• Based on total marks from assessments.
• Grades A-D awarded.

Equality and Inclusion

• Course designed to be fair and accessible.
• Guidance available for disabled/additional support candidates.

Additional Information

• Includes further reading and resources for teachers and candidates.

Appendices

• Course Support Notes: Advice on delivering the course, learning, and teaching approaches.
• Question Paper Brief: Details of assessment, knowledge, and skills covered.
• Changes History: Updates and version changes to the course specification.

This summary captures the essential aspects and components of the Advanced Higher Biology course as specified in the document.