Clarification details
Updated December 2018. The section on sources has been updated.
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.
Topic choices for the investigation
Assessors are advised to guide students in their choice of topic to ensure the Excellence criterion can be attained. A “comprehensive” (Excellence) investigation will include a range of sources, integration of ideas from societal perspectives, the provision of personal perspectives and insightful conclusions.
More recent recording artists can be investigated comprehensively when students include them on a continuum of New Zealand musical development. An analysis of a song that is representation of the artist, event or organisation under investigation is expected, as this allows for deeper enquiry.
Sources
Internet-based sources; creating surveys, questionnaires and interviews; together with attending and reviewing local music events, are further avenues for students to investigate New Zealand music.