NCEA Level 2 Biology
12BIO Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mrs L. Brown.
Recommended Prior LearningAchieve in three standards in any level 1 Science course (e.g. Science, Biochemistry, physical science and Earth Science, Agriculture/Horticultures), including passing one external standard at the achieved level, PLUS be enrolled for either 12MA1 or 12MA2 AND either 12EN1 or 12EN2.
The Level 2 NCEA biology course is aimed at students who wish to study biology in greater depth and develop the skills which will be used in further study. This course covers pure biology topics of plants and ecology, cell processes, adaptations across several groups of living organisms, and genetics and evolution.
A student will be withdrawn from a standard if the teacher is not confident that the achievement of the standard is within the reach of the student or there is no evidence of the student attempting the assessment.
Course Overview
Term 1
91156 - Demonstrate understanding of life processes at the cellular level
(External - 4 credits)
Assessment: In class test, Term 2, week 2
End of year exam - Friday 20 November 2026
91153 - Carry out a practical investigation in a biology context, with supervision
(Internal - 4 credits)
Assessment: Term 1, week 7 or 8
Term 2
91156 - Demonstrate understanding of life processes at the cellular level
(External - 4 credits)
Assessment: In class test, term 2, week 2
End of year exam - Friday 20 November 2026
91158 - Investigate a pattern in an ecological community, with supervision
(Internal - 4 credits)
Field trip: Week 6 (Tues, Wed)
Assessment: Report Term 2, week 8
91157 Demonstrate understanding of genetic variation and change
(External - 4 credits)
Assessment: Derived grade test - term 3, week 6
End of year exam - Friday 20 November 2026
Term 3
91157 - Demonstrate understanding of genetic variation and change
(External - 4 credits)
Assessment: Derived grade test - term 3, week 6
End of year exam - Friday 20 November 2026
CHOOSE BETWEEN:
91159 - Demonstrate understanding of gene expression
(External - 4 credits)
Assessment: Derived grade test - term 3, week
End of year exam - Friday 20 November 2026
OR
91190 Investigate how organisms survive in an extreme environment
(Internal - 4 credits)
Assessment: Written report - term 4
Term 4
91190 Investigate how organisms survive in an extreme environment
(Internal - 4 credits)
Assessment: Written report - term 4
Pathway Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
It is recommended students purchase a SCIPAD course book at approximately $25.
1B8 exercise book punched AND computer, pencil, 30cm ruler,blue & black pens, highlighter