L3 Earth and Space Science

NCEA Level 3 Earth and Space Science (3ESS)

Earth and Space Science covers several areas of Astronomy and Geological Sciences.

You 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.

You will study the Taupo Volcanic Zone,and investigate the geological dating methods that allow us to estimate the age of rocks, and also the way different lava viscosities contribute to the overall shape of a volcano.

Students will then study Earth Systems 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 and Key Competencies

Students will develop an understanding that scientists have an obligation to connect ideas to current and historical research.

Students will conduct investigations to extend scientific knowledge, and analyse the results of investigations and how they are present.

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 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.