National 5 Biology
Essential information
Course Specification
This explains the overall structure of the Course, including its purpose and aims and information on the skills, knowledge and understanding that will be developed.
- N5 Biology Course Specification 2017-18 session
September 2017 - N5 Biology Course Content Change Comparison
July 2017
Course Reports
These reports provide information on the performance of candidates which it is hoped will be useful to teachers, lecturers and assessors in their preparation of candidates for future assessment.
- 2017 National 5 Biology Course Report October 2017
- 2016 N5 Biology Course Report October 2016
- 2015 National 5 Biology Course Report October 2015
- Biology Verification Key Messages Round 1 March 2017
- Biology Verification Key Messages October 2016
- Biology Verification Key Messages October 2015
Assessment
Specimen Question Papers
These illustrate the standard, structure and requirements of the question papers learners will sit. These also include marking instructions.
- Biology Specimen Question Paper National 5
September 2017
Past Papers and Marking Instructions
Past papers are copies of exams that have been used in previous years. They can be used to help candidates revise for the live question paper.
Coursework
This section provides information on marking instructions and/or the coursework assessment task(s). It includes information that centres need to administer coursework and must be read in conjunction with the course specification.
Information on the production and submission of SQA-assessed coursework for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher.
Resources
Understanding Standards
- Examples of candidate evidence with commentaries
- Video overview of course assessment from session 2017-18 (33 minutes)
- Changes to published Understanding Standards materials for all subjects
Please note: Understanding Standards material is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains up to date.
CPD
Additional CPD support
Where any particular areas of concern are identified, which are not addressed by our Understanding Standards events or support materials, we will offer free continuing professional development (CPD) training, subject to request. CPD support is subject-specific and can be tailored to cover one or more qualification level. To find out more about this service visit our CPD page.
National 5 Biology Assignment SSERC Resources
SSERC, in partnership with SQA, have produced teacher/technician guides that provide background information to teachers/lecturers. Candidate guides containing protocols have also been produced. These are available via the following link: