Chemistry - moderator's newsletter
November 2011
Contents
Frequently asked questions
AS 90930
How do I approach group work?
A spectrum from totally individual work to group work for all aspects (planning, conducting the tests and reporting) of the assessment is at the disposal of teachers. This implies that students can work in groups throughout the entire assessment, work in groups for certain aspects of the assessment or work in an individual capacity. However, if any form of group work is chosen, teachers would need to provide an authenticity statement (could be in the form of a tick sheet) stating that each student has met the requirements of the standard by actively contributing to the group.
Is a hypothesis required?
No. For any level of achievement, a hypothesis is not required.
What is meant by “students must explicit about controlling external variables”?
Students must explain how external variables (outside variables which can influence results) will be controlled. Simply identifying external variables is not sufficient.
How strict should I be on the use of correct units?
Correct units are required and the use of correct units in the assessment should be emphasised to students during teaching/preparation for the assessment.
Have the requirements for the discussion changed from the requirements for the old standard?
Yes. The new requirement for the discussion is applicable chemistry ideas and ONE of validity of method OR reliability of data. Applicable chemistry ideas is a must but the student has a choice to then add either validity of method or reliability of data to their discussion.
AS 90931
What does technological application mean?
It implies the use of chemistry to meet the needs of society.
Can students work in groups?
Students can work in groups to research information. However, the writing of the report must be done individually.
AS 90305
Has there been a change to existing requirements?
No. The status quo with regard to requirements remain. Refer to the clarification document and the standard for requirements.
AS 90763
Can a student gain Excellence with just one error with significant figures or units?
Yes. If a student makes only one error with EITHER significant figures OR units and the error is the only one in the paper, Excellence can be awarded.
Online Resources
Online resources for chemistry can be found on the Chemistry subject page.
Level 3 trials
Five teachers have committed themselves to trialling the new standards next year. Thank you to all those that have expressed an interest.