The principle aim of the Biology Department is to encourage in pupils a keen interest in the study of Biology in a challenging but enjoyable learning environment.

There are four staff in the Biology Department:

Mr J Kerr (Principal Teacher)

Mrs E Herd

Mr J McLaren

Mr I Richard

Throughout all year groups, we attempt to adopt teaching methods which address the needs of all pupils.

These teaching approaches are designed to help pupils develop:-

• a knowledge and understanding of biological concepts.
• problem solving and practical skills.
• strategies for effective learning.
• the ability to work with others and to respect their rights, views and feelings.
• the management of their own learning.
• an awareness of factors which can affect the health and well-being of themselves and others around them.
• a caring approach to the environment.
• an increased knowledge of biology-based careers.

ETHOS
We aim to make the courses on offer of interest and relevance to pupils.

To this end, teaching notes and methodologies are regularly reviewed and classroom practice is monitored to minimise learning difficulties, enhance interest and ensure challenge within the courses offered.

Pupils are encouraged to develop good work practice such as being on time, starting quickly and concentrating on the tasks in hand.

For a more holistic approach, learning opportunities outwith the department are strongly encouraged and currently these include :

• S3 Standard Grade Biology fieldwork at the RSPB Nature Reserve, Lochwinnoch.
• S3 Standard Grade Biology workshop on “The World of Plants” at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh.
• S4 Standard Grade Biology visit to Auchentoshan Distillery, Old Kilpatrick.
• Higher Biology visit to Edinburgh Zoo to participate in a workshop on “Animal Adaptations”.
• Advanced Higher Biology visit to Edinburgh Zoo to participate in a workshop on “Primate Behaviour”.
• Advanced Higher Biology four day residential field trip to Arran to participate in field studies in freshwater, marine and moorland ecology.

The Advanced Higher Biology pupils also participate in a Lab Day, run by staff from James Watt College, Greenock, covering work on DNA profiles and decay processes.     

S3 Biology RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserver	S3 Biology Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh	S4 Biology Auchentoshan Distillery
AH Biology Residential Field Trip, Lochranza	AH Biology Animal Behaviour Workshop	Higher Biology Edinburgh Zoo, Animal Adoption Workshop