Clarification details
Updated March 2016. This document has been updated in its entirety.
This standard requires students to demonstrate understanding of chemical processes in the world around us. Students should use chemistry vocabulary, symbols, conventions, and equations.
The purpose of clarifications
We create clarification documents to help people understand the current requirements of achievement standards. Clarifications do not introduce new criteria, change the intent of the standard, or change what we expect from assessment.
These documents unpack and explain the language and intent of the standard so people interpret and apply the standard consistently. We provide examples or guidance as illustrations only. They are not prescriptions or requirements.
For official requirements, always refer to the current version of the achievement standard as published by NZQA.
Demonstrating understanding
To enable students to process and interpret given information, they should be provided with sufficient resource material to complete their report. They may also use their own additional material.
Making judgements
For all levels of achievement, students need to describe the chemical processes involved using appropriate chemical terminology including chemical equations for the reactions occurring.
Merit also requires students to explain the links between the chemical processes and the consequences for the environment and/or people. The student demonstrates coherent use of chemistry vocabulary, symbols, conventions and equations.
Excellence also requires students to elaborate on the consequences of the chemical processes for the environment and/or people, compare and contrast the processes used to meet the needs, resolve issues or develop new technologies for the environment and/or people. The student consistently integrates chemistry vocabulary, symbols, conventions and equations.