EPIC – Empowered / Personalised / Inspired / Challenge 

Entry Recommendation: Entry into this course involves discussion with the Science and Mathematics Heads of Faculty.

Course Outline:  EPIC aims to meet the needs of students who would benefit from more specific, integrated or non traditional teaching and learning. Students benefit from eight contact hours per week, in a learning environment where they are empowered through a cross-curricular programme that encourages collaboration, creativity and independence in their learning.  The course offers a selection of learning opportunities drawn from Science and Mathematics, and focuses on giving students a foundation of research, investigation, problem solving, analysis and presentation skills.

Science learning areas: ecology field work, body systems (including disease, nutrition, genetics), everyday chemistry and applied physics.

Mathematics learning areas: Number, Measurement, Budgeting, Statistics and Probability, Investigation.

Mathematics and Science topics are fully integrated to create a cohesive and consistent learning environment. Numeracy and Literacy skills are developed within ‘real world’ contexts as a foundation to further study in Level 2 NCEA.

Skills developed in the course:

• Effective communication
• Application of science and mathematical concepts to everyday situations
• Ability to work and learn collaboratively
• Problem solving – processing information to form justified conclusions
• Research skills – collecting, presenting, analysing and evaluating information
• Investigation design and practical skills
• Working with money in a future-focused approach to managing oneself

Course Costs: Field trips $20

The course leads to: NCEA Level 2 Biology, Environmental Biology and Mathematics.

Assessment:

Science

1. Ecology field study – 25%
2. Investigate an aspect of nutrition – 25%
3. Disease research – 25%
4. Applied genetics – 25%

Mathematics

1. Use number to solve problems – 25%
2. Use measurement to solve problems – 25%
3. Interpret statistical information – 25%
4. Budgeting – 25%