Two routes through one specification

How the new Edexcel specification works

Routes through the 2008 Edexcel Biology specification

There are two different routes through the new specification.

Context-led (SNAB) approach : This begins with a context or application drawing on many different areas of biology, and then moves on to the biological concepts underlying this application. This approach is based on SNAB.

Concept-led approach : this begins with a study of the theories and principles of biology, and finishes with an exploration of their practical applications.

Note that the topic summaries for the context-led SNAB approach start on page 45 of the Edexcel biology specification. The titles are the same for each, so make sure you are on pages 45-67 for the SNAB version.

Each topic is self-contained, so centres may offer a course based entirely on one or other approach, or choose different approaches to different topics as students go through the course.

Assessment of two approaches by one exam

By the end of the course the students will have covered the same biology, and there is one common assessment structure. Both courses are assessed through interesting coursework, and examination questions referring to biological contexts, applications and practical work. The Edexcel assessment team benefits from experienced examiners from the traditional and SNAB courses.

Resources for the context-led approach

The context-led approach is supported by the Salters-Nuffield Advanced Biology resources, produced by the developers at the Nuffield Curriculum Centre and UYSEG.

Coursework in the 2008 specification

To conform to the changes in the science A-level criteria from September 2008, one whole assessment unit at AS is internally assessed. This AS coursework unit includes a report on a visit or issue, and teacher assessment of three areas of practical skills.

At A2, an internally assessed individual investigation assesses the application of skills developed over AS.