Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91168 about?

Accepted Answer

In this standard, you'll design and carry out a hands-on physics experiment where you investigate how two things are related to each other in a non-linear way (meaning the relationship isn't just a straight line). You'll collect data by changing one variable across a good range of values, plot your results on a graph, and write a conclusion explaining what type of mathematical relationship you found.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91168?

Accepted Answer

1. Collect data by deliberately changing your independent variable across a reasonable range with enough data points to show the pattern clearly 2. Draw a graph showing the relationship between the variable you changed (independent variable) and what you measured as a result (dependent variable) 3. Control other variables that could affect your results so you can trust that your findings come from the variable you're testing, not from something else changing 4. Use measurement techniques that are accurate and reliable, so your data is trustworthy 5. Write a clear conclusion that describes what type of non-linear mathematical relationship exists between your variables

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91168?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You carry out the investigation, collect usable data, draw a graph, and write a conclusion identifying the type of mathematical relationship. Merit: You deliberately control variables that matter, use accurate techniques, and write a conclusion that clearly describes the mathematical relationship your data actually shows. Excellence: You do all of the above, plus discuss why you chose the range of values you used, explain why each controlled variable needed to be controlled, describe any measurement difficulties and how you solved them, connect your findings to physics ideas, and explain any unexpected results.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91168?

Accepted Answer

1. Not collecting enough data points across a wide enough range of the independent variable—use enough values to see the non-linear pattern clearly 2. Failing to control variables that could affect results, so it's unclear whether changes in your dependent variable come from your independent variable or from something else 3. Drawing a conclusion that doesn't actually match what the graph and data show, or describing a relationship that isn't the one your results demonstrate

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AS91168 — Physics Investigation

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