A2007/025 - 3 August 2007

Guidelines For Assessment of Biology 90718, Describe Applications of Biotechnological Techniques

This achievement standard was assessed internally for the first time in 2006. The following information is from recent discussion by the moderation panel and is given as guidance for assessors.

The focus of this achievement standard is the application of biotechnological techniques to meet human needs and demands, rather than the techniques themselves. The following information summarises the assessment requirements for each level of performance.

Achievement

For each of two applications, DESCRIBE:

• the application, eg w hat the application is, what is done in the application
• two relevant techniques used in the application
• how the application meets human needs or demands.

The same techniques cannot be identified for both applications.

Merit

As for Achievement AND for one application, EXPLAIN aspects of

• why a relevant technique is used in the application, ie give a reason why or how the technique is used in the application

OR

• how the application meets human need or demand, ie explain how the application relates to human need or demand.

Excellence

As for Achievement AND for one application, DISCUSS aspects of

• the application
• relevant techniques used in the application
• how the application meets human need or demand.

The discussion will include descriptions and explanations, and could involve justifying, relating, evaluating, comparing and contrasting, or analysing. For example, justifying the use of one technique over another (in relation to the application and/or human need/demand).

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