SBI4U
Biology
This Grade 12 university preparation biology course provides an in-depth study of biological systems. Students investigate biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis and population dynamics while refining scientific investigation, data analysis, research and communication skills needed for further study in life sciences and related fields.
Grade
12
Credit
1.0
Delivery
Online
Prerequisite
SBI3U
About This Course
This Grade 12 university preparation biology course provides an in-depth study of biological systems. Students investigate biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis and population dynamics while refining scientific investigation, data analysis, research and communication skills needed for further study in life sciences and related fields.
What You'll Learn
- Analyze biological molecules, enzymes and biochemical reactions involved in cellular function.
- Investigate metabolic processes such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis.
- Study molecular genetics, gene expression, DNA technologies and related biological processes.
- Analyze homeostatic mechanisms and feedback systems in organisms.
- Investigate population growth, interactions and factors affecting population dynamics.
- Apply scientific investigation, research, data analysis and ethical reasoning across biological contexts.
Skills You'll Develop
- Advanced biological inquiry
- Biochemical and molecular analysis
- Genetics and data interpretation
- Scientific research and communication
- Evaluation of biotechnology, health and environmental issues
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Apply scientific investigation skills in planning, performing, analyzing and communicating.
- Explain structures and functions of biological molecules and biochemical reactions.
- Analyze metabolic processes and their importance in living systems.
- Explain molecular genetics and investigate processes related to DNA and gene expression.
- Analyze homeostatic systems and mechanisms that maintain internal balance.
- Analyze population dynamics and factors influencing population change and sustainability.
- Identify careers and scientific contributions related to the biological fields studied.
Course Units
The following reflects the school’s planned organization of the course. Approximate time allocations may be adjusted while all curriculum expectations and required planned learning are maintained.
| Unit | Title / Major Learning Focus | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Biochemistry | 20 hours |
| 2 | Metabolic Processes | 22 hours |
| 3 | Molecular Genetics | 22 hours |
| 4 | Homeostasis | 22 hours |
| 5 | Population Dynamics | 22 hours |
| Final | Mandatory Written Final Examination | 2 hours |
Assessment
Assessment uses evidence gathered over time from student work, conversations and observations. The final grade for 2026–2027 is determined as follows:
| Component | Weight | How It Is Determined |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework throughout the course | 65% | Evaluation evidence gathered throughout the course, reflecting consistent achievement with special consideration for more recent evidence. |
| Mandatory written final examination | 25% | Mandatory Grade 12 science written final examination. |
| Attendance and participation | 10% | Based on meaningful attendance and participation; excused absences do not negatively affect this component. |
Examples of Assessment Evidence
Assessment may include investigations and lab/simulation reports, research tasks, case studies, tests, biochemical and genetic analysis, data-analysis tasks, presentations, biological diagrams and the mandatory written final examination.
Pathways
Students explore careers related to biology and the life sciences, including research, biotechnology, medicine, public health, environmental science, genetics, laboratory technology, agriculture and related fields.
SBI4U provides the biology foundation for many Ontario university health-science, life-science and pre-professional programs.
Teacher Support
- Students learn through the school's secure online learning environment and receive ongoing support from qualified teachers.
- Teacher-supported conferencing, tutorials and scheduled live support are available as appropriate.
- Direct instruction and concept modelling establish detailed biological knowledge and precise scientific terminology.
- Inquiry investigations, teacher-approved laboratory activities, virtual labs and simulations support scientific reasoning and safe practice.
- Students interpret biological diagrams, biochemical pathways, models, graphs, tables and quantitative population data.
- Case studies, guided research, descriptive feedback and differentiated supports help students connect molecular, cellular, organismal and ecological levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the course code?
SBI4U — Biology, Grade 12, University Preparation.
What is the prerequisite?
Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation (SBI3U).
How many credits is SBI4U?
The course is worth 1.0 Ontario secondary school credit.
What major topics are covered?
Biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis and population dynamics.
How is the final grade calculated?
65% coursework, 25% mandatory written final examination, and 10% attendance and participation.
Does the course include investigations?
Yes. Scientific investigation, virtual labs, simulations, data analysis and teacher-approved practical work are integrated throughout the course.
What careers and programs does SBI4U support?
Research, biotechnology, medicine, public health, environmental science, genetics, laboratory technology, agriculture and many health-science university programs.
Ready to Take This Course?
$549 / Credit
- Provided by CSW — Canadian School of the World
- Ontario Ministry of Education registered
- Delivered fully online
Need Help Deciding?
Not sure if this is the right course? Book a free 30-minute meeting with a CSW advisor.
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