L2 Earth and Space Science
Subject Description
Teacher in Charge: Mr S. Sheppard.
This course is an introduction to the field of Marine and Earth Science that leads on to Level 3 Earth and Space Science.
Students start the year researching life in the extreme environment of the deep sea, followed by learning on extreme Earth events in New Zealand, including volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunami. Students will explore the geology of Mauao (Mount Maunganui) linking it's current landform to the geological processes that have shaped it and a practical investigation on the topic of the cleanup of oil spills in the oceans.
Students spend the remainder of the year learning about stars and planetary systems, which along with the Extreme Earth Events, will be assessed in the end of year NCEA exams.
In the first term, students will also be offered the optional opportunity to complete their Open water Scuba Diving course through DiveZone Tauranga. This is offered to the school at a discounted rate and students can also gain 7 NCEA Level 3 credits.
This course includes a total of 16 Level 2 Achievement Standard credits plus 4 optional externally assessed credits and 7 optional Level 3 Unit Standard credits.
In summary, this course offers a challenging and interesting mix of both unit standards and achievement students to prepare students for Polytech and University courses in Marine Biology, Earth Science, Environmental Science and other practical Science pathways.
Required Prior Learning
Minimum entry of 10 credits in L1 Science or if given HOD approval.
Subject Costs
Diving course includes fees of elearning, diving equipment hire of tanks, regulator, BCD and instruction cost - this must be paid up front. $550
Note - Students must provide own mask and snorkel.
Medical: All students must supply a recreational diving medical certificate stating they are medically fit to undertake SCUBA diving. This is due week 2 of term 1. $60-90.
Pathway
Subject Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for Course Endorsement.
External
NZQA Info
Scuba dive in open water to a maximum depth of 18 metres
Assessments:
Term: 1, Week: 7
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 2.1 - Carry out a practical Earth and Space Science investigation
Assessments:
Term: 2, Week: 7
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 2.3 - Investigate geological processes in a New Zealand locality
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 2.4 - Investigate how organisms survive in an extreme environment
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 2.5 - Demonstrate understanding of the causes of extreme Earth events in New Zealand
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 2.7 - Demonstrate understanding of physical principles related to the Earth System