Advanced Higher Biology, Projects – 4 day

The following is an example of how a 4-day course might look. Our courses are as flexible as possible to meet your requirements, and there is also some variation between what is offered at specific centres due to habitat availability.

Day 1

Arrive Midday

Welcome by staff, centre tour and introduction, pre-course meeting of staff and teachers, allocation of wellies and waterproofs as appropriate.

Afternoon 

Introduction to Sampling

Students discuss key ecological terminology and ecosystem components before evaluating a range of techniques to survey wild organisms in the centre grounds. This session explores how sample an ecosystem using different types of quadrats, transects and sampling strategies as well as trying out equipment to monitor abiotic environmental factors.

Evening

Projects – Research

Students will identify a topic to investigate, carry out background research, formulate their aim and hypothesis, and identify variables. They will plan their experimental procedures, taking into account health and safety considerations and the availability of resources. Day 2

Morning and afternoon

Projects – Data Collection

Students will conduct their experimental work, with time to review and modify their procedures as appropriate. Day 3

Morning and afternoon

Projects – Data Collection Students will continue their experimental work, allowing time to make modifications and carry out a second replicate experiment.

Evening

Projects – Data Processing

In the evening students can process their raw data and begin their data presentation. Day 4

Projects – Results and Discussion

This session allows students time to complete data processing and start to present and analyse their data, conducting any statistical tests as appropriate.

Depart Midday

Organisms and evolution

Field techniques for biologists

Health and safety Sampling of wild organisms Identification and taxonomy Monitoring populations Investigative biology

Scientific principles and process

Scientific method Scientific literature and communication Scientific ethics

Experimentation

Pilot Study Experimental design Sampling Reliability Presentation of data

Reporting and critical evaluation of biological research

Background information Reporting and evaluation experimental design Data analysis Evaluating results and conclusions

Develop personal skills Have fun Be inspired by a passion for the subject Build friendships