HIGHER HUMAN BIOLOGY

Recommended Entry:  While entry is at the discretion of the centre, pupils would normally have obtained an A or B pass at National 5 Biology.

Units – Title and Brief Description

Human Biology: Human Cells (Higher)

In this Unit, learners will develop knowledge and understanding through studying stem cells, differentiation in somatic and germline cells, and the research and therapeutic value of stem cells and cancer cells. The Unit covers the key areas of division and differentiation in human cells, structure and function of DNA, gene expression and the genome. Analytical thinking and problem solving skills will be developed in context, through investigation of DNA, the expression of the genotype, and protein production, which allows study of mutations and genetic disorders. DNA technology is covered, including sequencing and medical and forensic applications. In addition, the Unit covers metabolic pathways and their control, through enzymes, with emphasis on cellular respiration and the role of ATP.

Human Biology: Physiology and Health (Higher)

In this Unit, learners will develop knowledge and understanding by focusing on the key areas of reproduction and the cardiovascular system. By studying these systems, learners will be able to develop their problem solving and analytical thinking skills. Reproduction covers hormonal control and the biology of controlling fertility, including fertile periods, treatments for infertility, contraception, ante-natal care and post-natal screening. The Unit also covers relevant tissues and circulation and the pathology of cardiovascular disease, including the impact on society and personal lifestyle.

Human Biology: Neurobiology and Communication (Higher)

In this Unit, learners will develop knowledge and understanding through the key areas of the nervous system and communication and social behaviour. The approach is more on function than structure, and covers neural communication and the links between neurotransmitters and behaviour, while considering personal and social citizenship. This approach enables the development of both analytical thinking and problem solving skills in context.

Human Biology: Immunology and Public Health (Higher)

In this Unit, learners will develop knowledge and understanding through the key areas of the immune system and infectious diseases and immunity. Analytical thinking and problem solving skills will be developed contextually within these topics. This Unit details the immune system’s role through allergic and defence responses. The Unit emphasises the control of infectious diseases and the principles of active immunisation and vaccination.

Progression:  Successful completion of this course can lead to Advanced Higher Biology.

Assessment:  Internal Assessment is based on:

• End of unit tests and other assessments.

External Assessment is based on:

• two question papers, which requires learners to demonstrate aspects of breadth, challenge and application; learners will apply breadth and depth of skills, knowledge and understanding from across the Course to answer questions in Human Biology (120 marks)

an assignment, which requires learners to demonstrate aspects of challenge and application; learners will apply skills of scientific inquiry, using related knowledge, to carry out a meaningful and appropriately challenging task in Human Biology and communicate findings (20 marks scaled to 30 marks)