Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91012 about?

Accepted Answer

You need to pick a current problem or debate happening in New Zealand (like flooding, housing shortages, or conservation issues) and explain what the issue is, who disagrees about how to fix it, and what you think is the best solution. You must use real information and examples to support your thinking, and show why your recommended solution works better than other options.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91012?

Accepted Answer

1. Describe what the geographic issue actually is and why it matters (the nature of the problem) 2. Explain different viewpoints—show what different people or groups think about the issue and why they think that way 3. Describe the strengths and weaknesses of different possible solutions or actions that could address the issue 4. Recommend one course of action and explain your reasons for choosing it 5. Use specific information like quotes, examples, and data from reliable sources to support everything you say

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91012?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You describe the issue, show at least two different viewpoints, discuss possible solutions and their pros/cons, and recommend a course of action with a basic reason. Merit: You describe the issue in detail, explain viewpoints using specific examples and information from sources, thoroughly discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each solution option, and support your recommendation with detailed reasons. Excellence: You fully explain the issue and viewpoints using specific information and geography terms, show insight by linking causes and effects, incorporate what different stakeholders actually believe and value, and demonstrate why your recommended solution is better than the others with detailed reasoning.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91012?

Accepted Answer

1. Not including enough specific information—students describe the issue in vague terms without using real quotes, examples, or data from sources 2. Failing to properly explain different viewpoints—students mention different opinions but don't show why those groups hold those views or what matters to them 3. Weak analysis of solutions—students list possible courses of action but don't properly discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each one before recommending their choice

NZ geographic issue

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