L3 Earth and Space Science
Course Description
Teacher in Charge: Mr R. Limmer.
NCEA Level 3 Earth and Space Science (3ESS)
Students will study the necessary adaptations required to enable life in space. This will cover the features of an extreme environment, and the ability of extreme environments to sustain life. They will also research into the possibility of life existing elsewhere in our solar system, including an investigation around bacteria extremophiles.
Students will then study Earth Systems by learning about geological dating, the Atmosphere System and the Ocean System, and how these control the global climate. They will also analyse the effects that ocean acidification and climate change are having on these processes.
Curriculum Skills:
- Understanding scientists have an obligation to connect ideas to current and historical research.
- Conduct investigations to extend scientific knowledge.
- Consider the wider implications of scientific findings and how they could be used in the future to further understanding of the world around us.
- Develop a coherent understanding of socio-scientific issues such as space travel and the potential of creating a society in space in the future.
This course leads to University level study. There will also be the opportunity to study towards the Earth and Space Science Scholarship exam for students who are interested.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
1B8 or refill and folder for notes/diagrams\.
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for subject endorsement.
This course is approved for University Entrance.
External
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 3.1 - Carry out an independent practical Earth and Space Science investigation
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Earth and Space Science 3.2 - Investigate a socio-scientific issue in an Earth and Space Science context
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Earth and Space Science 3.3 - Investigate the evidence related to dating geological event(s)
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Earth and Space Science 3.4 - Demonstrate understanding of processes in the ocean system
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Earth and Space Science 3.5 - Demonstrate understanding of processes in the atmosphere system
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Earth and Space Science 3.6 - Investigate an aspect of astronomy
Approved subject for University Entrance
Number of credits that can be used for overall endorsement: 24
At least 14 Achieved credits are required in an approved subject for the subject to count as an approved University Entrance subject.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: Selection of a course does not guarantee entry into the course. Courses may not run due to low numbers, and timetable clashes may occur. Entry into a course may depend on prior performance in the subject area at the Dean and/or Head of Faculty's discretion. In any of the above listed situations, the student will be consulted about alternative courses during the course confirmation process.