Developing a new context-based biology course

Abstract

Salters-Nuffield Advanced Biology (SNAB) is a major new advanced level biology course for 16-19 year-olds. It was launched in England and Wales in September 2005; from September 2002 it has been piloted with around 4,000 students. This paper discusses the reasons for developing a new advanced biology course at this time, the philosophy of the project and how the materials have been written and the specification (syllabus) devised. Particular attention is paid to the pedagogical implications of developing the course and to the participation of teachers in the project. The aim of the project is to provide an up-to-date course that enthuses students, is considered appropriate by teachers and other professionals in biology, and takes full advantage of modern developments in biology and in teaching.