Earth & Space Science
Year 13
Prerequisites There is no prerequisite for Level 3 Earth and Space Science, although at least one Level 2 Science is recommended for success. Description Earth and Space Science builds scientific understanding of the world around us, and the stars and planets above, through observation and investigation. Integrating multiple scientific disciplines through real-world applications, it offers a holistic understanding of our world and its place in the universe. Learning opportunities include: • Field Trips – Investigating how processes have shaped environments and making astronomical observations. • Practical Investigations – Hands-on experiments and data collection. • Research Projects – Gathering evidence, making field observations, analysing data, and communicating findings. • Real-world Applications – Connecting scientific concepts to current events and environmental issues.
Topics covered include: • Plate Tectonics — The science behind
earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis • Climate & Weather — What drives atmospheric processes and weather patterns • Oceans — Currents, waves, and why the ocean shapes life on Earth • Astronomy — How do we observe the stars and what’s out there? • Geology — How New Zealand's dramatic landscapes evolved over millions of years Earth and Space Science is ideal for students who are curious about the natural world and who enjoy hands-on and outdoor learning alongside classroom science. It equips students with the scientific knowledge to understand and evaluate environmental issues, interpret weather patterns, and explore space. These skills that are increasingly vital in our changing world. Rather than focusing on a single discipline, this course offers broad, real-world scientific understanding for students drawn to the big questions.
38 NCEA Course Booklet 2027
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