BIOLOGY
5090
GCE Ordinary Level/School Certificate
INTRODUCTION
This syllabus is designed to emphasise the  understanding and application of scientific
concepts and principles rather than factual material.  This approach has been adopted in
recognition of the need for students to develop skills that will be of long-term value in an
increasingly technological world rather than focusing on large quantities of factual material
that may have only short-term relevance.
AIMS
These provide the educational purposes of following a course in this subject.  Some of these
aims are reflected in the assessment objectives; others are not because they cannot readily
be translated into objectives that can be assessed.  The aims are not listed in an order of
priority.
The aims are to:
1. provide, through well designed studies of experimental and practical biological science, a
worthwhile educational experience for all students, whether or not they go on to study
science beyond this level and, in particular, to enable them to acquire sufficient
understanding and knowledge to
1.1  become confident citizens in a technological world, able to take or develop an
informed interest in matters of scientific import;
1.2  recognise the usefulness, and limitations, of scientific method and to appreciate its
applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life;
1.3  be suitably prepared and stimulated for studies beyond Ordinary Level in pure
sciences, in applied sciences or in science-dependent vocational courses.
2. develop abilities and skills that
2.1  are relevant to the study and practice of science;
2.2  are useful in everyday life;
2.3  encourage efficient and safe practice;
2.4  encourage effective communication.