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biology in the news .
Speedy Species Deaths (updated wednesdays - usually)

What is Biology?

Biology is the ‘study of life’ in its many manifestations. It encompasses studies of the origin, development, diversity, functioning and evolution of living systems.

It is a multifaceted science for adventurous and enquiring minds as we examine three broad areas.

In the first area we will study the diverse variety of living forms that exist in a range of environments such as forests, deserts, oceans and thermal vents. In this area we will study the complexity of the interactions between all living organisms that make up the Biosphere and investigate the unique position Homo sapiens occupies locally and globally.

The second area of study leads us into the laboratory to examine more closely how living things, called organisms, function. We will be examining the microscopic world of cells and then the sub - microscopic realm of the molecules and organelles that make up those cells. These will be integrated into a study of body systems and the metabolic processes that occur and allow organisms to function. The age old question of ‘when does a collection of non-living chemicals start to possess the characteristics of a living organism’ will be examined. An extension of this area will be the study of diseases.

Finally, life’s most distinctive ability is to reproduce their own kind. Why do oak trees produce only other oak trees and elephants only produce elephants? In this final area we will study the genetics of living organisms. The topical area of genetic engineering will be examined allowing students to develop the necessary skills to make educated decisions on this topic.

Today’s students are fortunate to be studying Biology during its most exciting era. The scope of Biology is immense. New research methods and fresh approaches are allowing biologists to unravel the mysteries of life opening up exciting frontiers in many different areas such as genetics, evolution, ecology cell energetics and diseases.

Description of Course

The Biology course follows the Queensland Studies Authority Syllabus. There is a new syllabus starting in 2005 with more of a focus on relevant and current issues in Biology than in the previous syllabus.

Biology is a four semester Board course which contributes to the calculation of a student’s Overall Position (OP). Its Field Weightings are: A = 3, B = 3, C = 5,
E = 3.

The course is organised and structured to assist all students to reach their full potential. At the same time students are given the opportunity and encouragement to work individually and independently in preparation for tertiary studies.

Student’s will engage in a variety of activities such as theoretical work, in class practicals including the extraction of DNA from cells, dissections, work in the field, fieldwork and excursions to the Queensland Institute of Medical Research and to the University of Queensland for lectures on topical subjects. (not compulsory).

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