IB Diploma Biology An introduction

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Course outline

Biology (SL/HL) is a challenging yet very interesting course of the Diploma curriculum. It is one of the science subjects the Diploma students may choose.

The aim of the course is to cover the relationship of structure and function at all levels of complexity.

Among many other topics, students learn about the cell theory, the chemistry and function of biological macromolecules, the structure and function of the plants and the fundamental principles of genetics and human physiology..

(From IB biology higher level subject brief, IBO)

For whom? For students that want to persue a career in Biological, Biomedical or Medical sciences. For any students that has a passion for learning the structure and function of living organisms.

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Connections with the MYP programme

Students who have undertaken the MYP science, design and mathematics courses will be well prepared for all Diploma sciences.

The alignment between MYP science and the Diploma Programme science courses allows for a smooth transition for students between programmes. The concurrent planning of the new group 4 courses and MYP: Next Chapter (both launched in 2014) has helped develop a closer alignment.

(From the IB Diploma Biology guide)

Aims of the Biology Course

The aims enable students, through the overarching theme of the Nature of science, to:

1. appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities.

2. acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology.

3. apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology.

4. develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesize scientific information.

5. develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities.

6. develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies.

Moreover to:

7. develop and apply 21st century communication skills in the study of science.

8. become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology.

9. develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology.

10. develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

(From the IB Diploma Biology guide)

Syllabus outline& teaching hours

http://www.biologycorner.com/resources/cell_plant_lettered.jpg

(From the IB Diploma Biology guide)

Course assessment

Internal Internal

• Student work marked by teachers against specific criteria• Internal assessment mark

mode-rated by the IBO

• Final exams at the end of the second year (May)•Marked by external

examiners.

Assessment scheme for Biology SL(first exams 2016)

(From the IB Diploma Biology guide)

External assessment components

Duration (hours)

Overall weighting (%) in final mark

Paper 1 3/4 20

Paper 2 1 1/4 40

Paper 3 1 20

Internal assessment 10 20

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Assessment scheme for Biology HL(first exams 2016)

(From the IB Diploma Biology guide)

External assessment components

Duration (hours)

Overall weighting (%) in final mark

Paper 1 1 20

Paper 2 2 1/4 36

Paper 3 1 1/4 24

Internal assessment 10 20

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What we offer:

• Eight (8) teaching hours per week in all HL subjects.

• Experienced teachers.

• Small groups of students.

• Summer preparatory courses.

• Very competitive fees.

For more information please contact Platon IB Diploma Programme

ibdp@platon.grinfo@platon.grhttp://www.platon.gr