L2 Earth and Space Science

NCEA L2 Earth and Space Science (2ESS)

In Earth and Space Science, you will start by studying the formation and shape of volcanoes. This will include a 3-day trip to Ruapehu where we will gather data and conduct investigations into the type of rock present, and how the altitude of the volcano affects plant growth. This trip should give you hands-on experience in geology, and the opportunity to gain 10 credits.

We will then study the necessary adaptations required to enable life in extreme environments. This will cover the features of an extreme environment, and the ability of extreme environments to sustain life as well as researching the adaptations of penguins at Kelly Tarltons.

Our learning around extreme environments will then lead to an investigation into the cause of the dinosaur extinction in which we will analyse the two leading theories surrounding this event.

You will have the option of two different exam topics - geological processes such as volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunamis; or the formation of stars, black holes and planetary systems.

Curriculum Skills and Key Competencies

Students will develop understanding that scientists have an obligation to connect ideas to current and historical research. They will use this information to analyse the extinction of the dinosaurs

Conduct investigations to extend scientific knowledge. This will occur on Mount Ruapehu, and will develop students' understanding of the importance of an accurate investigative process.

Students will consider the wider implications of scientific findings and how they could be used in the future to further understanding of the world around us.

Students will 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 directly to L3 Earth and Space Science. If you do well in this course you may also be able to move on to L3 Biology on a case-by-case basis.