Year 9 Curriculum Information Booklet 2017-2018

Biology
We start the KS4 course at the start of Year 9 in order to allow students the time they will
need to develop their understanding of the synoptic links in Biology and learn how to apply
their knowledge and understanding in novel contexts. Students have an extensive range of
topics to cover and will need time to develop the effective revision strategies needed to
recall the information they will learn.
Biology is taught to all students at Stretford Grammar School. We follow the AQA
specification (Specification code 8461). This is a linear specification and all of the
examinations are taken at the end of Year 11.
Aims of the course:
• develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding of biology
• develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of biology through different
types of scientific enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world
around them
• develop and learn to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problemsolving
skills, both in the laboratory, in the field and in other learning environments
• develop their ability to evaluate claims based on biology through critical analysis of the
methodology, evidence and conclusions, both qualitatively and quantitatively.
The course content covers a majority of concepts key enabling students to understand the
living world around them. The way the biological concepts flow through the course will
enable students to revisit and review concepts helping them to build a deeper
understanding. Lessons require students to read, write and talk about biological concepts as
well as representing concepts through mathematical and visual models. Homework is used
to enable students to consolidate their knowledge and to extend their understanding. The
quality of written communication and the analysis of information are key to success in
biology and lesson or homework activities enable these skills to be developed. Students
develop analytical and practical skills in addition to developing their understanding of how
scientists work in the real world. Practical work is at the heart of biology and is used to
support and consolidate biological concepts (knowledge and understanding). This is
achieved by applying and developing what is known and understood of abstract ideas and
models. Through practical work we are able to make sense of new information and
observations, and provide insights into the development of scientific thinking. Practical work
aims to develop investigative skills. These transferable skills include: devising and
investigating testable questions, identifying and controlling variables, and analysing,
interpreting and evaluating data. Students will learn how to use specialist equipment
correctly to take measurements, handling and manipulate equipment with confidence and
recognise hazards in order to plan how to minimise risk. By focusing on practical work,