Leaving Certificate Biology
Leaving Certificate Biology explores life from molecules and cells to whole organisms and ecosystems, while developing students’ understanding of how science works and how biology connects to real-world issues such as health, biotechnology, and sustainability.
Subject overview
Leaving Certificate Biology provides students with a broad and deep understanding of living systems, from the molecular level to whole organisms and ecosystems. The subject supports students in developing scientific knowledge while also understanding how biology applies to everyday life and global challenges.
The new Biology specification places a strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and practical skills, preparing students not only for examinations but also for further study and careers in science, healthcare, environmental science, and biotechnology.
Assessment
Leaving Certificate Biology is assessed through a combination of a written examination and an Additional Assessment Component (AAC), supporting both knowledge and practical scientific skills.
- Additional Assessment Component (AAC) – 40%
- Written examination – 60%
The AAC (“Biology in Practice”) allows students to demonstrate research, investigation, data handling, and scientific communication through applied learning.
Key areas of study
Cells and Molecular Biology
Exploring cell structure, biomolecules, enzymes, and genetic material.
Organisms and Systems
Understanding how plants and animals function and maintain life.
Genetics and Biotechnology
Studying inheritance, DNA technologies, and modern biotechnological applications.
Ecology
Investigating ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation.
Scientific Inquiry
Designing investigations, analysing data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
Health, Sustainability and Society
Connecting biology to health, sustainability, and modern scientific research.
Learning beyond the classroom
ETSS Wicklow links and opportunities
Biology students at ETSS Wicklow benefit from strong links with national research, industry, and science education initiatives, helping to bring biology to life beyond the textbook.
- Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE): authentic biotechnology learning, access to third-level scientific equipment, modern molecular biology techniques and data analysis.
- CURAM Teachers-in-Residence: classroom learning informed by current research in medical devices, biomaterials and regenerative medicine.
- Student research and competitions: supported participation in Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition and SciFest.
Curriculum update
The updated Leaving Certificate Biology course places a strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and practical skills. Students build research and investigation skills gradually across the two years of study to support the AAC.
Building AAC readiness
- Research skills: literature reviews, evaluating sources, summarising findings and referencing correctly.
- Investigation design: planning investigations, identifying variables and controls, selecting methods of data collection.
- Practical skills: developing laboratory techniques, handling data, creating graphs, and communicating findings clearly.
Further information
Interested in Leaving Certificate Biology?
If you would like more information about studying Biology at ETSS Wicklow, please contact the school office or speak with the Biology teaching team.
Contact us