Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91050 about?

Accepted Answer

You're learning how bigger machines and devices are built from smaller working parts, and why breaking them down into these smaller parts matters. You need to identify what those parts are, explain what each one does, and show how they work together to make the whole system actually function.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91050?

Accepted Answer

1. Identify the separate subsystems within a technological system (e.g. identify the cooling system, fuel system, and ignition system in a car engine) 2. Describe what role or function each subsystem has in the overall system 3. Explain how the subsystems connect and work together to make the whole technology work 4. For higher grades: explain how control mechanisms and feedback loops keep subsystems operating properly 5. For highest grades: discuss the real advantages and disadvantages of using subsystems, and how subsystems affect how the technology is designed, built, and maintained

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91050?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You identify subsystems in a technological system and describe what each one does and how they work together. Merit: You explain how control and feedback mechanisms allow subsystems to operate, and discuss the pros and cons of using subsystems in that technology. Excellence: You thoroughly discuss the real advantages and disadvantages of subsystems in a specific technology, and explain how subsystems impact the entire design, building, and maintenance process.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91050?

Accepted Answer

1. Choosing a technological system without clearly identifiable subsystems or subsystems with unknown functions—pick something obvious like an electric kettle, a bicycle, or a heating system, not vague examples 2. Describing subsystems in isolation without explaining how they actually interact and depend on each other to make the whole system work 3. For Merit and Excellence: only listing pros and cons without depth, rather than genuinely discussing real trade-offs and actual design consequences

Subsystems

Your assessment resources

Videos & study resources

More in this subject

Next year — Technology Level 2 · Year 12

Related standards