Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91040 about?

Accepted Answer

You need to carry out a social inquiry—basically a structured investigation into a real social issue that matters. You'll start with a clear focus and research questions, find and use different sources of information (both primary and secondary), explore what different people think about the issue, and look at what social actions people are taking in response. Make sure you reference all your sources and follow ethical research practices.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91040?

Accepted Answer

1. Develop a clear focus for your inquiry and create specific research questions based on that focus 2. Gather detailed information from a range of primary and secondary sources while following an ethical framework 3. Investigate and explain different points of view held by individuals, groups, or communities related to your inquiry topic 4. Research and describe social actions that people or groups are taking in relation to your focus 5. List all your references and sources clearly

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91040?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You conduct a basic social inquiry with a clear focus, research questions, information from different sources, different points of view, and social actions, all properly referenced. Merit: You go deeper by gathering detailed information from a wider range of sources, providing detailed explanations of different points of view, and describing multiple social actions in relation to your focus. Excellence: You demonstrate comprehensive understanding by including contrasting or opposing points of view that actually strengthen and complicate your findings, not just listing them.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91040?

Accepted Answer

1. Failing to clearly explain why different groups hold different points of view, or only presenting one perspective without genuine alternatives 2. Not gathering information from enough different sources or relying too heavily on secondary sources without primary sources 3. Describing social actions without connecting them back to the inquiry focus or explaining why those actions matter to your topic

Social inquiry

Your assessment resources

Videos & study resources

More in this subject

Other Social Studies standards · Level 1 · Year 11

Next year — Social Studies Level 2 · Year 12

Related standards