Higher Human Biology

Courses: Human Biology Higher.

The purpose of the course is to develop learners’ interest and enthusiasm for human biology. The skills of scientific inquiry and investigation are developed, throughout the course, by investigating the applications of human biology exploring complex biological mechanisms. This will enable learners to become scientifically literate citizens, able to review the science-based claims they will meet. The courses will be of interest and value to learners wishing to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of Human Cells , Physiology and Health and Neurobiology and Immunology. 

To find revision materials for this subject go to the Family Learning zone

 

Higher Human Biology

Higher Human Biology focuses exclusively on our own species, exploring complex biological mechanisms across three units: Human Cells , Physiology and Health and Neurobiology and Immunology. The final QS grade is heavily weighted toward a written exam at 80% and an assignment making up the remaining 20%.

 

Dates

Outlines

Assessments

June- July

Unit 1 – Human Cells

  • KA 1 – Division and differentiation in human cells
  • KA 2 – structure and replication of DNA
  • KA 3 – Gene Expression

 

Revision

 

Homeworks and essay questions

August - October

Unit 1 – Human cells

  • KA 4 – mutations
  • KA 5 – human genomics
  • KA 6 – metabolic pathways
  • KA 7 – cellular respiration
  • KA 8 – energy systems in muscle cells

Revision

 

Unit 2 – Physiology and health

  • KA1 – gamete production and fertlilisation
  • KA 2 – hormonal control of reproduction

Homeworks and essay questions

 

Mid unit check test (KA1-4)

 

 

End of unit 1 Test

 

Homeworks and essays

October - December

Unit 2 – Physiology and health

  • KA 3 – the biology of controlling fertility
  • KA 4 – antenatal and postnatal screening
  • KA 5 – structure and function of the arteries, capillaries and veins
  • KA 6 – structure and function of the heart
  • KA 7 – pathology of cardiovascular disease (CVD)
  • KA 8 – blood glucose levels and obesity

 

Revision for prelim

Homeworks and essays

 

Mid course check test (KA1 –4)

 

 

 

End of unit test

 

 

 

 

Prelim covering Unit 1 and unit 2

January - April

Assignment

 

 

Unit 3 – Neurobiology and immunology

  • KA 1 – divisions of the nervous system and neural pathways
  • KA 2 – the cerebral cortex
  • KA 3 – memory
  • KA 4 – cells of the nervous system and neurotransmitters at synapses
  • KA 5 – nonspecific body defences against pathogens
  • KA 6 – specific cellular defences against pathogens
  • KA 7 immunisation
  • KA 8 – clinical trials of vaccines and drugs

 

Revision for whole course prelim (March)

Targeted revision for exam

 

Assignment practical and write up

 

 

Homework's and Essays

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

End of topic test

 

 

 

Whole course prelim

 

April to May

Revision

Exam

Final exam