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
October 2018
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.
- 2019 National 5 Biology Course Report
September 2019 - 2018 National 5 Biology Course Report
September 2018 - 2017 National 5 Biology Course Report October 2017
- 2016 National 5 Biology Course Report October 2016
- 2015 National 5 Biology Course Report October 2015
- Biology Verification Key Messages Round 1 March 2017
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
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.
We are currently updating Coursework for External Assessment document and it will be available from the beginning of October.
Information on the production and submission of SQA-assessed coursework for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher.
- Coursework for External Assessment (261 KB)
Resources
Understanding Standards
Examples of candidate evidence with commentaries
Course assessment overview
Changes to understanding standards materials
Please note: Understanding Standards material are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain 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: