Biology is the study of life. Through the study of biology students employ the processes of science in their investigations and explore the diversity of life and the inter-relationship between organisms and their environment. Students develop an understanding and knowledge of the unit of life – the cell – whose structures and processes are shared by all living organisms and, in so doing, gain an insight into the uniqueness, function and role of organisms, including themselves. In addition, they become aware of the use by humans of other living organisms and their products to enhance human health and the human environment and make informed evaluations about contemporary biological issues.

Biology Department

• Ms. Colette Smith
• Ms. Ellen McCarron
• Ms. Paula McGonnell

The aims of the Biology syllabus are:

• to contribute to students' general education through their involvement in the process of scientific investigation and the acquisition of biological knowledge and understanding
• to encourage in students an attitude of scientific enquiry, of curiosity and self-discovery through (i) individual study and personal initiative (ii) teamwork (iii) class-directed work
• to develop an understanding of biological facts and principles
• to enhance an interest in and develop an appreciation of the nature and diversity of organisms
• to create an awareness of the application of biological knowledge to modern society in personal, social, economic, environmental, industrial, agricultural, medical, waste management and other technological contexts
• to develop in students an ability to make informed evaluations about contemporary biological issues.

Hong Kong Global Award

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Peer Tutoring in Senior Biology 

(Ordinary and Higher level)

When properly utilised, peer teaching is an effective model that can have a positive impact in the classroom, both in terms of academic performance and it helps to foster friendships beyond the classroom. By using this teaching approach both sets of students (peer and learner) are sure to have a productive and enjoyable learning environment. Students who have an interest in teaching as a career are chosen to do this. It is extremely beneficial to the tutor because it has been researched that students who study with their peers recall more content and score higher on assessments. Peer teachers reinforce their own learning by instructing others and it helps students to build confidence and good communication skills.

6^th years showing 5^th years how to carry out an experiment “To investigate the growth of leaf yeast using Malt Agar Plates”.

4^th years showing 1^st years how to carry out an experiment “To dissect and display the parts of the heart”

Walking Debates

Leaving Certificate Biology (Ordinary and Higher level)

A walking debate is a fun strategy that is used in Biology classes to develop students’ communication and critical thinking skills. You can see a lot of movement as students’ minds are changed by arguments made by their classmates. Students are encouraged to express their individual viewpoints on chosen topics and to interact with others and share their experiences to reinforce/change their viewpoints. It also involves listening actively and speaking with confidence. Examples of debates used in Biology classes are:

• Fast food restaurants should be banned from areas close to schools
• Portion sizes are one of the greatest ways of leading to obesity in young people
• People evolved, they weren’t created
• A species that is becoming extinct should be allowed to become extinct without human intervention
• Prenatal genetic screening – too much information is given to expectant mothers

Career Opportunities in Biology:

• Research scientist
• Pharmacologist
• Biologist
• Ecologist
• Nature conservation officer
• Biotechnologist
• Forensic scientist
• Teacher
• Biological Technician
• Biochemist
• Genetic Counsellor
• Pharmaceutical

Useful websites for Syllabus and guidelines