EDF5123 Science: Biology in secondary years A
Faculty of Education
EDF5123 Science: Biology in secondary years A is a level 5, 6-credit-point, undergraduate and postgraduate unit from the Faculty of Education, offered in 2026 in Semester 1 at Clayton. It has no prerequisites and unlocks 1 unit.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2026
- Semester 1
- Clayton
- Assessment
- No exam
- 2 tasks
- Workload
- 144 hours
- per semester
This is the 2026 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
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Requisites
Before EDF5123
No prerequisites or corequisites besides the enrolment rules below.
After EDF5123
1 unit list EDF5123 as a prerequisite or corequisite.
Enrolment rules
Prerequisites
- Enrolment in D3001 BEd(Hons), D3002 to D3007 BEd(Hons)(Secondary doubles), D6001 MTeach
- Minor in biological sciences
Overview
This unit enables you to build a strong foundation to teach biology as a specialist in Years 11 and 12 and in the junior years (7 to 10). The unit draws upon a constructivist theory of learning to explore the most appropriate ways of encouraging learners to build their conceptual understandings of biological concepts. Linked to this, you will develop and demonstrate a range of pedagogical approaches appropriate to teaching biology as evidenced in the science education research literature. Importantly, you will be introduced to appropriate curricula (Years 7 to 12) so you are confident about aligning your teaching to the curriculum in preparation for the classroom. Throughout the unit you will be encouraged to work collaboratively while being challenged to consider the key issues impacting biology education and how these might be addressed in your teaching. You will be encouraged to think critically and creatively about teaching biology, learn how to adapt your knowledge and skills within diverse contexts, and recognise the importance of reflecting upon your own practice.
Offerings in 2026
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| First semester | Clayton | On campus, block |
Assessment
- Research assignment (2000 words or equivalent)Project50%
- Reflective assignment linking research to biology teacher practice (2000 words or equivalent)Project50%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
articulate and apply your understanding of a constructivist perspective of learning in biology
- 2
link the everyday world of the learner with biology in ways that are meaningful and relevant
- 3
actively participate in professional conversations about the key theoretical and pedagogical perspectives and issues in teaching biology
- 4
plan for, enact and adjust as appropriate a variety of teaching and learning strategies and practices to meet the needs of a diverse range of student learners, in a variety of settings and curriculum contexts
- 5
demonstrate an awareness of the ways in which science education research informs teacher practice to enhance student understanding of biological concepts and skills.
Workload and teaching
- Lectures8 hours
- Tutorials16 hours
- Teaching approachActive learning
The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per teaching period comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study.
Usually, you can expect to engage with:
• 24 hours* of scheduled learning delivered on campus via weekly/regular directed learning activities; and
• the remaining hours to be allocated towards self-directed/independent study
Scheduled learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.
*Subject to variation due to professional experience requirements.
You will be provided with the opportunity to engage with relevant literature and resources. Further, you will be encouraged to deepen your understanding of topic areas through collegial discussion and debate, and by participating in activities designed to extend your understanding.
Learning resources
Recommended resources
Please visit the unit Moodle site for further information.
Contacts
- Unit Coordinators
- Associate Professor Rebecca Cooper
- Dr Jennifer Mansfield
- Chief Examiners
- Dr Jennifer Mansfield
- Associate Professor Rebecca Cooper
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for EDF5123?
EDF5123 has no prerequisites, but enrolment rules apply.
What can I take after EDF5123?
EDF5123 is a prerequisite or corequisite for 1 unit, including EDF5124.
When is EDF5123 offered?
In 2026, EDF5123 runs in Semester 1 at Clayton.
How much work is EDF5123?
The handbook expects about 144 hours of study across the semester. No students have rated its difficulty yet.
Does EDF5123 have an exam?
No. EDF5123 has 2 assessment tasks and no exam.