Biology is the study of life. Through the study of biology students employ the processes of science in their investigations and explore the diversity of life and the inter-relationship between organisms and their environment. Students gain an insight into the uniqueness, function and role of organisms, including themselves. In addition, they become aware of the use by humans of other living organisms and their products to enhance human health and the human environment and make informed evaluations about contemporary biological issues.

The Leaving Certificate Biology syllabus consists of 3 units completed over 2 years:

Unit 1 – The Study of Life

The Scientific Method

The Characteristics of Life

Nutrition

Ecology

Unit 2 – The Cell

Cell Structure

Cell Metabolism

Cell Continuity

Cell Diversity

Genetics

Unit 3 – The organism

Diversity of Organisms

Microbiology

Plant Biology

Human Biology

In the course of their studies, students will undertake a range of practical work, laboratory work and field work.

A field trip is usually undertaken towards the end of LC1 – Ecosystem study.

The syllabus will be assessed in relation to its learning objectives through a terminal examination paper.

There is currently no practical assessment component though there is a section in the terminal exam paper based on the 24 mandatory practical activities.