Biology

01. Subject Introduction

• Biology builds upon junior secondary science, developing scientific knowledge, skills and values, laying the foundation for further studies and careers in life sciences. The curriculum emphasises scientific literacy and lifelong learning, connecting science, technology, society and the environment, cultivating respect for life and a sense of responsibility for community health.

02. Department Philosophy

• The core lies in stimulating curiosity and respect for life. Emphasises constructing knowledge and understanding the nature of science, developing inquiry, critical thinking and creative abilities. Students can communicate using scientific language, recognise the impact of biology on society, ethics and the environment, and become responsible citizens.

03. Vision and Mission

• To build a systematic learning framework, internalising biological thinking as a lifelong tool to address health and sustainability challenges. Integrating local ecology and technological development, training critical thinking and data interpretation, making rational judgments based on evidence, and cultivating scientifically literate citizens with social responsibility.

04. Curriculum Framework

• Divided into Compulsory and Elective parts. The Compulsory part covers four core areas: Cells and Molecules of Life, Genetics and Evolution, Organisms and Environment, and Health and Diseases. Students choose two of four electives (Human Physiology, Applied Ecology, Microorganisms and Humans, Biotechnology), introducing cutting-edge developments in medicine and biotechnology.

05. Graduate Attributes

• Students must master core concepts and systematic knowledge; possess observation, experimental design and statistical analysis skills; hold enthusiasm for inquiry and respect for life; and apply knowledge to global issues such as health management, climate change and gene editing, participating in rational scientific discussions.

06. Junior and Senior Secondary Curriculum

• The junior secondary stage builds foundations through inquiry and life contexts, training observation and collaboration. The senior secondary stage comprehensively addresses DSE requirements, integrating university-level abilities, deepening critical thinking and research training, with emphasis on variable control and academic communication.

07. School-based Excellence Framework

• Combining field inquiry and advanced experiments, training students to independently design hypotheses and control variables, emphasising experimental rigour and critical reflection on anomalous results. Participation in science competitions and institutional visits broadens scientific perspectives.

08. Signature Programmes

• The core is concept construction, deepening understanding through case studies and models. Classroom questioning promotes higher-order thinking. Foundation consolidation programmes clarify misconceptions, strengthen data interpretation and examination strategies, steadily improving learning outcomes.

09. Teaching, Learning and Assessment

• Public assessment includes the Compulsory paper (120 marks / 2.5 hours) and Elective paper (40 marks / 1 hour). Classroom teaching uses questioning and case analysis to build knowledge networks. Continuous assessment and specific feedback help students learn from mistakes.

10. Biology Beyond the Classroom

• Ecological field trips (e.g. mangroves) are arranged to apply sampling techniques for data collection. Summer programmes at universities and research institutions provide exposure to genomics and neuroscience, facilitating early planning for further studies and careers.

11. Leadership, Innovation and Global Learning

• Responsibility is cultivated through assisting with experiments and Science Ambassador programmes. Virtual dissection software, genetic databases and online platforms are integrated to enhance digital literacy and self-directed learning abilities.

12. Our Learning Community

• Bringing together professional teachers, proactive students and home-school partners for mutual growth. Teachers possess rich DSE experience and professional experimental skills, valuing home-school collaboration and peer learning culture, fostering a deep scientific inquiry atmosphere.

13. Closing Message

• The curriculum balances knowledge, skills and values. The Department hopes students will develop a passion for life sciences and a rigorous attitude, nurturing scientific spirit and humanistic care, contributing to the sustainable development of society.