Biology International Baccalaureate

As with other DP science courses the theme of the nature of science is fundamental. The aims of the DP Biology course include enabling students to appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context, whilst acquiring and using a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterise science and technology. The value of effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities is emphasised alongside experimental and investigative scientific skills. Equally, wider considerations such as the ethics of scientific study, the role of science globally, its interplay with other subject disciplines and its limitations are of great import on the DP Biology course.

Students also undertake the collaborative sciences project. This extends the development of scientific communication in a collaborative and interdisciplinary context, allowing students to work together beyond the confines of one specific syllabus.

Core

• Cell biology
• Molecular biology
• Genetics
• Ecology
• Evolution and biodiversity
• Human physiology

Standard Level Option (choice of one)

• Neurobiology and behaviour
• Biotechnology and bioinformatics
• Ecology and conservation
• Human physiology

Higher Level Additional

• Nucleic acids
• Metabolism, cell respiration and photosynthesis
• Plant biology
• Genetics and evolution
• Animal physiology
• Assessment

The course is made up of both externally assessed examinations and an internally assessed portfolio. King’s InterHigh will support with guidance around where external exams may be sat. These exams are sat at the end of the two year programme.

Each student will undertaken an individual investigation and write-up their findings. This is an internally assessed piece of work.
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• Paper 1: 30 multiple-choice questions (40 questions for Higher Level)
• Paper 2: Data-based, short answer and extended response questions
• Paper 3: Data-based, short answer and extended response questions

Standard Level

“Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial infections in human tissues because of differences in cell structure between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

• Distinguish between the structure of prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
• Evaluate the drug tests that Florey and Chain carried out on penicillin.
• Explain the reasons for the ineffectiveness of antibiotics in the treatment of viral diseases.” (Paper 2)

“The company BASF produces a genetically modified potato called Amflora. Outline the purpose of modifying the potato.” (Paper 3)

Higher Level

“Membrane proteins of mice cells were marked with green and membrane proteins of human cells were marked with red. The cells were fused together. What would be seen after two hours?” (Paper 1)

“Brain death is a clinical diagnosis based on the absence of neurological function, with a known irreversible cause of coma.

• Explain a named method to assess brain damage.
• Distinguish between a reflex arc and other responses by the nervous system.
• Describe the events that occur in the nervous system when something very hot is touched.” (Paper 3)

Learning IB Biology online allows students to enjoy:

• Virtual Reality (VR) learning opportunities to immerse student in diagrams, models and other subject matter.
• High academic standards and levels of support.
• Positive learning culture and systems for communication.
• Live, responsive teaching and feedback in small classes.
• 24/7 access to course resources and lessons, recorded and catalogued.
• A flexible, international, high energy learning experience.
• Experienced, subject specialist teachers to both Standard and Higher level.