Biology (group 4)

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.

Aims
  • Appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities.
  • Acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology.
  • Apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology.
  • Develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesize scientific information.
  • Develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities.
  • Become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology.
  • Develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies.

 

Syllabus and Assessment

At both higher and standard level 80 % of the final grade is based upon examinations with 20 % on Internal Assessment. The IB Biology exam is made up of three parts for both SL and HL – two external exams and one internal assessment. 

SL

Paper 1  (1 hour and 30 minutes – 36%)
Paper 1A: Multiple-choice questions
Paper 1B: Data-based questions
(Total 55 marks)

Paper 2  (1 hour and 30 minutes – 44%)
Short-answer and extended-response questions
(Total 50 marks)

Internal Assessment (10 hours – 20 %)
The internal assessment consists of one task: the scientific investigation.
This component is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB at the end of the course.
(Total 24 marks)

 

HL

Paper 1 (2 hours – 36%)
Paper 1A: Multiple-choice questions
Paper 1B: Data-based questions
(Total 75 marks)

Paper 2 (2 hours and 30 minutes – 44%)
Short-answer and extended-response questions
(Total 90 marks)

Internal Assessment (10 hours – 20 %)
The internal assessment consists of one task: the scientific investigation.
This component is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB at the end of the course.
(Total 24 marks)

 

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