Biology is the study of life. The vast diversity of species makes biology both an endless source of fascination and a considerable challenge. Biologists attempt to understand the living world at all levels from the micro to the macro using many different approaches and techniques. The study of IB Biology leads students to appreciate the interconnectedness of life within the biosphere. The course considers the cellular nature of life before exploring the molecular interactions required for life. We build on this further by discussing the mechanisms for inheritance and physiological processes carried out by specialized organ systems. Evolution is an overarching theme throughout the course and an understanding of evolutionary theory is used to explain the interconnectedness of life.
Students who have studied IB Biology at the College have progressed on to read for degrees in medicine and dentistry as well as a considerable number of degrees in the Life Sciences including Natural Sciences at Cambridge, Neuroscience, Genetics, Immunology and Zoology.
Paper 1 (SL/HL) – Multiple choice (HL 20% / SL 20%)
Paper 2 (SL/HL) – Data-based, short answer extended response questions (HL 36% / SL 40%)
Paper 3 (SL/HL) – Data based, short answer and extended response questions relating to one of four (HL: Neurobiology and Behaviour) (HL 24% / SL 20%)
Internal Assessment – Investigation and write-up of 6-12 pages (HL 20% / SL 20%)
