What does the course entail?

Human Biology covers a wide range of ideas relating to the functioning human. Students learn about themselves, relating structure to function and how integrated regulation allows individuals to survive in a changing environment. They research new discoveries that are increasing our understanding of the causes of dysfunction, which can lead to new treatments and preventative measures. Reproduction is studied to understand the sources of variation that make each of us unique individuals. Through a combination of classical genetics and advances in molecular genetics, dynamic new biotechnological processes have resulted. Population genetics is studied to highlight the longer term changes leading to natural selection and evolution of our species.
An understanding of human biology is valuable for a variety of career paths. The course content deals directly and indirectly with many different occupations in fields, such as science education, medical and paramedical fields, food and hospitality, childcare, sport and social work. Appreciation of the range and scope of such professions broadens their horizons and enables them to make informed choices. This helps to prepare all students, regardless of their background or career aspirations, to take their place as responsible citizens in society.

What will be covered in this course?

YEAR 11
UNITS 1 & 2

Students will study two units, with each unit broken into the topics:
  • The functioning human body
  • Reproduction and inheritance

Assessment Structure
Students will be assessed using the following assessment types:
  • 40% Exam
  • 25% Test
  • 15% Extended response
  • 20% Science inquiry (Practical/Investigation)
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Expectations
Students will be required to study, as well as complete homework and research tasks out of class time. Past students have found this load to be approximately 30 minutes per night.
This course contains compulsory dissections. These will often contribute to assessment tasks. Please do not take this course if you are not intending to complete dissections.
Studying multiple science courses in Year 11
Please note that while students may receive a recommendation for all four ATAR sciences, it is only with the approval of the HOLA that students may undertake more than two science courses.

YEAR 12
UNITS 3 & 4

Students will study two units, with each unit broken into the topics:
  • Homeostasis and disease
  • Human variation and evolution the functioning human body

Assessment structure
Students will be assessed using the following assessment types:
  • 40% Exam
  • 25% Test
  • 15% Extended response
  • 20% Science inquiry (Practical/Investigation)

Expectations
Students will be required to study, as well as complete homework and research tasks out of class time. Past students have found this load to be approximately 6 hours per week.
This course contains compulsory dissections. These will often contribute to assessment tasks. Please do not take this course if you are not intending to complete dissections.
Studying multiple science courses in Year 12
Please note that while students may receive a recommendation for all four ATAR sciences, it is only with the approval of the HOLA that students may undertake more than two science courses.
Head of Learning Area: Mrs Michelle Prasad
Contact Number: 9591 4218
​Contact Email: [email protected]