Exploring Life, Inspiring Curiosity

Brief introduction of the subject

Biology is a rapidly advancing science incorporating a huge amount of information about living organisms. There is a mistaken impression that it is a subject involving memorisation of numerous unrelated facts. In this curriculum, it is hoped that students will develop a broad, general understanding of biological principles and concepts and at the same time acquire a body of essential facts. In order to make the study of biology exciting and relevant, it is suggested that it should be introduced in real life contexts. The adoption of a wide range of learning and teaching strategies and assessment practices is intended to stimulate interest in and create motivation for learning among students with a range of abilities and aspirations.

Importance in the school curriculum

Biology is essential in the school curriculum as it fosters an understanding of life and promotes scientific literacy, enabling students to think critically and make informed decisions. It raises health awareness, encourages environmental responsibility, and opens career opportunities in fields like medicine and biotechnology. Additionally, biology connects with other disciplines, providing a holistic view of complex issues and driving innovation in science and technology. Overall, it equips students with crucial knowledge and skills for navigating a rapidly changing world.

Medium of instruction

EMI

Key topics and progression (S4-S6)

Learning objectives and skills developed

The broad aims of the biology programme in Tsung Tsin College are to:

• Develop students' appreciation of the wonders of the living world; and to promote respect for all living things;
• Broaden and stimulate students' interest in learning biology; to encourage their worthy use of leisure; and to help them to acquire self-initiative in the study of biology;
• Develop students' power to think creatively, analyse critically and scientifically on biological issue and to make rational decisions and to communicate effectively;
• Develop students' observational, manipulative and experimental skills;
• Develop students' ability to retrieve appropriate information from proper sources; and to develop their confidence in self learning and to give them a sense of achievement;
• Develop students' appreciation of the importance of experimental and investigatory work in the study of biology;
• Enable students to acquire knowledge and understanding of basic biological principles;
• Develop students' awareness of and concern for biological issues in personal, social, environmental and technological contexts;
• Prepare students to become responsible citizens in a changing world; and

Teaching and assessment methods

The teaching methods for biology are diverse. In addition to traditional lectures, they include laboratory work, group discussions, multimedia-assisted instruction, and field trips. These approaches not only help students understand theoretical knowledge but also emphasize hands-on practice and direct observation. Through interactive collaboration, the integration of technology, and real-world experiences, students' motivation and critical thinking skills are enhanced.

In terms of assessment, biology places importance not only on written tests but also on practical experiments, assignments and reports, oral presentations, and classroom participation. These diverse assessment methods aim to comprehensively evaluate students' understanding of knowledge, practical abilities, and communication skills, helping students develop well-rounded scientific literacy through multiple channels.