Overview of the NSW Stage 6 Biology Syllabus

The NSW Stage 6 Biology Syllabus provides a comprehensive framework for the study of biology at the senior secondary level. It is designed to develop students' understanding of biological concepts, investigative skills, and appreciation for the diversity of life. The syllabus is structured to prepare students for further academic study, vocational training, and active participation in society.

Structure of the Biology Curriculum

Progression in the K–12 Science Curriculum

The curriculum is organized into progressive stages, beginning with foundational learning and culminating in specialized elective studies in Stage 6 (Years 11–12). This structure ensures continuity and depth in scientific understanding.

• Early Stage 1 – Stage 3: Science and Technology K–6 (mandatory)

• Stage 4 – Stage 5: Science Years 7–10 (mandatory, including Life Skills courses)

• Stage 6 (Years 11–12): Elective study in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Environmental Science, Investigating Science, or Science Life Skills

• Post-school: Community, further education, and workplace pathways

Course Modules and Working Scientifically Skills

The syllabus is divided into eight modules, four for Year 11 and four for Year 12. Each module integrates the development of scientific skills, known as 'Working Scientifically,' which are central to the practice of science.

• Year 11 Modules:

  • Module 1: Cells as the Basis of Life

  • Module 2: Organisation of Living Things

  • Module 3: Biological Diversity

  • Module 4: Ecosystem Dynamics

• Year 12 Modules:

  • Module 5: Heredity

  • Module 6: Genetic Change

  • Module 7: Infectious Disease

  • Module 8: Non-infectious Disease and Disorders

Working Scientifically: Core Skills in Biology

Working Scientifically skills are dynamic and interdependent processes essential for scientific inquiry and investigation. These skills are developed throughout all modules and are fundamental to understanding and practicing science.

• Questioning and Predicting: Developing and evaluating scientific questions and hypotheses.

• Planning Investigations: Designing valid and reliable investigations, considering variables and controls.

• Conducting Investigations: Collecting data safely and accurately using appropriate technologies.

• Processing Data and Information: Organizing and representing qualitative and quantitative data using various media.

• Analysing Data and Information: Identifying trends, patterns, and relationships; evaluating data quality.

• Problem Solving: Using evidence and critical thinking to explain phenomena and solve scientific problems.

• Communicating: Presenting scientific understanding using appropriate language, notations, and formats for specific audiences.

Depth Studies

Depth studies are extended investigations or activities that allow students to explore concepts in greater detail, develop investigative skills, and pursue individual interests in biology. These studies may include practical investigations, secondary-sourced research, creative projects, fieldwork, or data analysis.

• At least 15 hours of depth studies are required in both Year 11 and Year 12.

• Depth studies must address at least four Working Scientifically outcomes, including Questioning and Predicting, and Communicating.

• Examples include designing experiments, conducting literature reviews, creating models, and analyzing data sets.

Outcome and Content Coding

Outcome Coding

Each syllabus outcome is coded to indicate the subject, year, and outcome number. For example:

• BIO12-12: Biology, Year 12, Outcome 12

Australian Curriculum Content Coding

Australian curriculum content descriptions are identified by a code, such as ACSBL003, where each part of the code specifies the curriculum, subject, and element.

• AC: Australian Curriculum

• S: Science

• BL: Biology

• 003: Element code

Summary Table: Year 11 and Year 12 Biology Modules

Key Definitions

• Abiotic: Non-living components of the environment.

• Allele: A variant form of a gene.

• Biotic: All living organisms in a specific region.

• Gene Pool: The stock of different genes in an interbreeding population.

• Hypothesis: A tentative explanation for an observed phenomenon, testable by investigation.

• Model: A representation that describes or explains the workings or relationships within a system.

• Symbiosis: Interaction between two different organisms living in close association.

• Variable: A factor that can be changed, maintained, or measured in an investigation.

Conclusion

The NSW Stage 6 Biology Syllabus is designed to foster scientific literacy, critical thinking, and investigative skills. It provides a solid foundation for further study and careers in biology and related fields, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application through depth studies and scientific inquiry.