The course will start with an introduction to core concepts in Biology, from Evolution, via Genetics to Physiology and Behaviour. This will be followed by a practical investigation on flight initiation distances in birds. We will learn in theory and practice how to carry out a scientific investigation in animal behaviour. You are then encouraged to develop and carry out your own investigation by collecting and analysing data, as well as write a scientific report. This is an internal assessment worth 4 credits, and achieved via multiple milestones with the final report and presentation due in Term 2.
Thereafter, we will learn about human physiology, including the nervous system and the endocrine system. Together, they maintain a constant body temperature, blood glucose levels, osmotic balance, blood pH and blood pressure. This is known as homeostasis and ultimately keeps us alive. We will learn how the human body is able to return to homeostasis under extreme stress and what happens when homeostasis breaks down. This standard will be assessed internally by analysing a scenario in class at the end of Term 1. It is worth 3 credits.
Field trips to Hagley Park and potentially Orana Park