NCEA L2 Biology - Mātauranga Koiora B
BIO2B Course Description Recommended Prior LearningWe recommend that you have achieved 14 credits in Science at Level 1, or higher. However, if you are really keen and are willing to work hard, we will consider you. Studying Biology Semester A would be a good idea, although it is not essential.
If you want advice on whether Biology is for you, see Mr M Anderson or Dr E Attridge
The study of life itself, level 2 Biology explores the theories and principles involved in living systems, in all their intricate beauty. Topics you will learn about in the second semester include: genetic variation (which includes evolution and natural selection) as well as gene expression- how the genetic code in our genes gets converted into protein.
Aotearoa has a unique evolutionary history, with many animals and plants, such as the Tuatara, being unique. Learning how our native flora and fauna come to be the way they are today is one of the goals of the course.
By the end of semester B, you will know about the principles of genetics, cell reproduction, natural selection, evolutionary theory, plant and animal interactions, and more.
Course Overview
Semester B
In this Semester you will start the genetic variation external standard. You will learn about genetic variation, more complex monohybrid crosses involving co-dominance, incomplete dominance, as well as lethal alleles. You will explore dihybrid crosses and then see how these mechanisms can lead to the variety of life we see today. You will be introduced to gene flow, genetic bottlenecks, and the founder effect to help to explain how native flora and fauna arose in Aotearoa.
After the derived grade exams in mid-August, you will move on to studying gene expression - how DNA leads to proteins and how those proteins work in metabolic pathways.
Students in Semester B will sit the two external examinations. There will be an opportunity for an internal standard analysing the validity of biological information presented to the public during the Semester if you are taking Semester B only.
For students who choose to only study Semester B, these options would particularly go well with biology as a first semester option: Chem1, Phys1, OED1
Year 12 (NCEA Level 2), Year 13 (NCEA Level 3), Science - Pūtaiao
Pathway
NCEA L3 Biology - Mātauranga Koiora
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