Module 9.6 in the biology stage 6 syllabus (Biotechnology),
focuses on the continued studies of technological advances within the field of
science to create practical applications of modern laboratory techniques. In
contrast with the stage 4/5 science syllabus there is a contextual outline
given to assist in teaching the unit.
The stage 4/5 syllabus requires students to simply become familiar with
the idea that science and technology go hand-in-hand. Outcome 4.12a requires students to only
identify technologies, whereas 5.12c they are required to describe some
benefits and problems of using biotechnology.
These are classified as lower order questions. By the time they reach stage 6 they focus on
current and past events (9.6.1) where the nature and practice of Biology is
used in a technological application e.g. GMOs but it also focuses on the ethics
behind these practices (9.6.7).
The difference you point out about the context is an interesting one. I guess this goves the teachers freedom in the lower stages to be creative and possibly better taget the contextual feel of the module to theor students.
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