Human biology covers a wide range of ideas relating to the functioning human. Students learn about themselves, relating structure to function and how integrated regulation allows individuals to survive in a changing environment. They research new discoveries that are increasing our understanding of the causes of dysfunction, which can lead to new treatments and preventative measures. Reproduction is studied to understand the sources of variation that make each of us unique individuals. Through a combination of classical genetics, and advances in molecular genetics, dynamic new biotechnological processes have resulted. Population genetics is studied to highlight the long term changes leading to natural selection and evolution of our species.
Prerequisites:
An understanding of the Year 11 content is assumed knowledge for students in Year 12. It is required that students studying Unit 3 and Unit 4 have achieved a C grade or higher Unit 1 and Unit 2 or have made arrangements with the Curriculum Team Leader for Science.
Syllabus:
The Year 12 syllabus is divided into two units which are delivered as a pair. The notional time for the pair of units is 110 class contact hours.
Unit 3 – Homeostasis and disease
This unit explores the nervous and endocrine systems and the mechanisms that help maintain the systems of the body to function within normal range, and the body’s immune responses to invading pathogens.
Unit 4 – Human variation and evolution
This unit explores the variations in humans, their changing environment and evolutionary trends in homonids.
More Information:
For further information regarding this course click here.
Career Pathways:
Click here to view a chart which shows a selection of jobs that have some relation to the biological sciences.