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St Andrew's College Dublin St Andrew's College Dublin

Group 4

AIMS

 
Biology is based on the experimental study of living organisms, from the level of biochemistry and cell ultra structure to the interactions of organisms with the environment. It forms an introduction to many disciplines of further study such as Medicine, Dentistry, Agriculture, Forestry, Nursing and Pharmacy.
 
COURSE CONTENT
 
All students cover compulsory core sections
 
  • Statistical analysis
  • Cell structure and function
  • Chemistry of life
  • Genetics
  • Ecology and Evolution
  • Human health and Physiology
  • Additional topics are covered by higher level students
  • Nucleic acids and proteins
  • Cell respiration and photosynthesis
  • Genetics 
  • Plant science

Students also study two option units from the following list:

  • Human nutrition and health
  • Physiology of exercise
  • Cells and energy
  • Evolution
  • Neurobiology and   behaviour
  • Microbes and Biotechnology
  • Ecology and Conservation
  • Further human Physiology
Practical work is done on a regular basis to supplement theory lessons and to give students the opportunity to explore topics in more depth.
 
ASSESSMENT
 
Internal
School-based assessment
Experimental work and a cross discipline collaborative project                24%
 
External
Written examination                                                                       76%
 
REQUIREMENTS
 
Higher level students should have a genuine interest and strong background in the subject. To take the standard level students should have some background knowledge along with a genuine interest.
 

Group 4 PHYSICS Higher and Standard Level

AIMS
 
This course is designed for students interested in the study of Physics on both a practical and theoretical level. Students develop competence in the collection and analysis of data derived from field investigations and laboratory work. They also acquire the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise scientific information.
 
COURSE CONTENT
 
Students learn to construct abstract models such as analogies and mathematical systems to explain phenomena, then link these abstract concepts to reality through controlled experiments. Sometimes the experiments lead to constructing models. The course covers the following subjects:
  • Mechanics
  • Heat
  • Waves and Light
  • Electricity and Magnetism
  • Atomic and Nuclear Physics.
 
In addition, higher level students are required to take two options from: Optics, Biomedical Physics, Historical Physics and Relativity and Astrophysics.
 
ASSESSMENT
 
Internal
School-based assessment
Experimental work and a cross discipline collaborative project                24%
 
External
Written examination                                                                       76%
 
REQUIREMENTS
 
Higher Level students should have a genuine interest and strong background in the subject. To take the Standard Level course students should have some background knowledge along with a genuine interest.