Course: Life Under the Microscope (NCEA L2 Biology)
This Biology course is based on cells and practical microscope use.
When:
Term Three
Subject Area(s)
Biology
NCEA L2
The fundamentals of understanding what happens big picture in biological systems starts with having an understanding and appreciation of what occurs at the micro level. This unit of work is starting with the basics of cellular structure and function in plants and animals. It includes a practical internal assessment where your microscope skills will be tested. Although there is no direct link to level 3 biology, it is similar in course content to what you find at first year university cell courses.
Requirements
Access to a microscope for the practical. No prior learning required.
Assessment
Cell Biology [AS 91156]: Looks at the basic units of life, the simplest unit capable of independent existence and reproduction. They all contain small internal structure, organelles, which help carry out life’s functions. The basic functions studied will be; movement of materials, photosynthesis, respiration and how enzymes function. The life cycle of the cell will also be studied.
Externally assessed - 4 credits
Microscope Practical [AS 91160]: Investigate biological material at the microscopic level (Please note this is a practical and the highest grade awarded is Merit)
Internal assessed - 3 credits
About the Teacher
Jo Fissenden has been a biologist ‘forever’. Starting with dissecting (or butchering!) fish caught as a child which eventually led to a career as a marine biologist with NIWA, working on the sustainability of mussel farms in particular and aquaculture in general. After a change in life that led to teaching she has been in the classroom for the last ten years teaching Level 2 and 3 Biology. She loves the practical side of teaching and sees Biology as a useful subject for any career choice as it relates to so much in ‘real’ life.