L3 Biology

NCEA Level 3 Biology (3BIO) 

Students will learn about the use of biotechnology in medicine such as cloning, transgenesis, biochemistry, and the production of medicines such as insulin. They will also look at biotechnology in agriculture and the modification of plants to cope with poor growing conditions.

Students will then learn about the responses of plants and animals to their external environment, and the processes of evolution and the formation of different species due to isolation. 

Students will complete 3 compulsory standards, and then select 2 of the optional standards to build their personalised course.

Curriculum Skills:

• Understanding that scientists have an obligation to connect ideas to current and historical research.
• Conduct investigations to extend scientific knowledge of the effect of abiotic factors on plant growth.
• Consider the wider implications of scientific findings and how they could be used in the future to prevent the impacts of a changing abiotic environment.
• Develop a coherent understanding of socio-scientific issues such as mandatory vaccines and animal testing.

This course is designed for students who may continue to study Biology at a University level. It offers the achievement standards and credits required to enter Medical Sciences as well as Bachelor of Science courses.