No of Sets in 2023 / 2024: 3, No of Periods per Week: 5

Department Staff: Ms. G Mullane, Ms Hennessy & Mr. H. Jones

Brief Summary of Course Content

Biology is a fascinating, popular and useful subject. In St. Columba’s we aim to enthuse, inform and raise awareness about all aspects of the living world – and about the functioning of our own bodies. In so doing we also aim to prepare pupils for their certificate exams to as high a level as possible, and to prepare them for their roles as decision-making, responsible and interested members of society. The course is divided into three units. Unit 1 looks at living things and how they interact and feed. Unit 2 looks closely at the cell, its structure, function and biochemistry. Unit 3 looks at the organism and extensive study of both animal and plant physiology is carried out. The course content is broad, challenging yet interesting and rewarding. As part of the course of study, there are also 24 mandatory laboratory investigations to be carried out.

Comparison of Results with National Figures

Biology is continually the most popular of the non-compulsory subjects at Leaving Certificate in SCC, and all pupils are prepared initially for the Higher Level examination. Last year, 100% of people sat the exam at Higher Level with 44% of all candidates achieved a H1 (16% nationally), 22% achieved a H2 (14% nationally) and 13% achieved a H3 (14% nationally). 

Possible Career Areas for which this Subject is Useful / Essential

Biology is a broad subject and pupils will find it particularly useful no matter what area of study is pursued at higher education. Biology is useful for any course of study especially in the area of science, engineering or medicine:

• Research / Laboratory Work
• Further Education
• Teaching
• Zoology
• Environmental Careers
• Medical / Drug Research
• Microbiologist
• Veterinary Medicine
• Doctors / Nurse
• Much more.......