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Research-Based Curricula coursebooks

Research-Based Curricula coursebooks or 'RBCs' are digital subject resources for Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 students, each written by a PhD researcher and expert in that topic.

Practice university-style study whilst learning new and fascinating things about a subject of your choice! Completing an RBC can be mentioned in UCAS applications and shows interest in your subject.

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Use the 'SEARCH' bar to filter by subject, Key Stage, or title. Remember to 'RESET' your search each time!

HeppSY+

Perception

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Steph Acaster, a researcher at Sheffield Hallam University.

Key Stage 4
Psychology
DANCOP

Spider Silk: From Sticky Thread to Bulletproof Vests

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Charlotte Rose Deall, a researcher at the University of Nottingham.

Key Stage 4
Biology
HeppSY+

Using Statistics to Save the Environment

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Mahshid Golzar, a researcher at the University of Sheffield.

Key Stage 4
Maths
Geography
HeppSY+

Can Microalgae Change the World?

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Thomas Butler, a researcher at the University of Sheffield.

Key Stage 5
Biology
Chemistry
HeppSY+

Transparent Conducting Oxides: Your Phone Display

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Mirjam Skof, a researcher at Sheffield Hallam University.

Key Stage 4
Physics
Make Happen

Diversity in Contemporary Art

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Henrietta Y. Mansfeld, a researcher at Zurich University of the Arts and the Universit

Key Stage 5
Art
History
DANCOP

The Role of Human Papillomavirus in Cancer

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Aimee Whitton, a researcher at the University of Derby.

Key Stage 5
Biology
Medicine
DANCOP

Othello and the Question of Race

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Kiran Singh, a researcher at the University of Derby.

Key Stage 5
English Literature
Hello Future

Japanese Knotweed: The Misunderstood Menace

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Claire Holden, a researcher at Lancaster University.

Key Stage 5
Biology
Geography
DANCOP

The Effects of Ageing on Physical Activity Participation

Social Sciences

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Abi, a researcher at the University of Derby.

Key Stage 4
Biology
Physical Education
Make Happen

More Than Meets the Eye

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Tamisan Latherow, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 5
Business Studies
Media
HeppSY+

Beyond Shakespeare: Shakespeare's Influences and Influence

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Amy Jackson, a researcher at the University of Sheffield.

Key Stage 3
English Literature
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About RBC coursebooks

What are RBC coursebooks?

Subject tutorial packs (PDF) - students complete either with teacher guidance or on their own  
Six 1-hour modules and a final reflection activity in each
Supports attainment and subject understanding
Develops critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis and writing skills, and more!

Why is it great for students to complete an RBC coursebook?

Demonstrate your subject interest and dedication for university applications
Talk about completing a unique RBC coursebook in your UCAS applications
Similar to the work required for a university course or module - practice uni-style learning
Gain 'stretch' experience and build independent research and learning skills
Find out which subjects you do and don't like at a university level!

Who are they for?

Key Stage 3, 4 or 5 students depending on the pack
Teachers can take lesson and activity ideas from these, or use as extracurricular assignments
Years 10 & 11 in gaining stretch and prepare for A-level style learning
Years 12 & 13 to build expertise and unique subject experience universities will be looking for
Inspiration or precursor for any students completing an EPQ (extended-project qualification)

Please note that many of the tutorial packs cover more than one school subject, for example, geography and statistics together. This is called interdisciplinary study and it is very common at university. Being able to demonstrate that you have engaged with 'interdisciplinary' study is likely to strengthen your UCAS application.

Need help or want to explore how your university can be apart of the Research-Based Curricula programme? 

Contact us

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