Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91625 about?

Accepted Answer

You need to choose a complex machine (something like a lawnmower, drill, or escalator that has an engine or motor powering it) and explain how it works. You'll describe what the main parts do, use proper technical language and diagrams, and discuss how efficiently it uses its energy. The key is understanding not just what the machine does, but *why* it's designed that way and how well it performs.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91625?

Accepted Answer

1. Identify and describe all the main components of your chosen complex machine and explain what job each part does 2. Explain how the machine works as a whole using correct technical language, and include diagrams or symbols to support your explanation 3. Explain what internal energy system (motor, engine, turbine, etc.) powers the machine and how it transfers energy to do useful work 4. Discuss whether the machine wastes energy or uses it efficiently, and explain what this means for how the machine is built and powered 5. For higher grades: evaluate or justify ways to make the machine use energy more efficiently

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91625?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You correctly identify the main components and their functions, explain how the machine works using some technical language and diagrams, and discuss energy efficiency in basic terms. Merit: You explain in detail how the components work together to achieve the machine's purpose, you evaluate whether it's energy efficient and why, and your diagrams and language are clearly technical and accurate. Excellence: You discuss specific, realistic ways to improve the energy efficiency and justify why each change would work, showing deep understanding of how the design choices affect both function and energy use.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91625?

Accepted Answer

1. Choosing a machine that is too simple (like a bicycle or hand-powered tool) instead of one with an internal energy system like a motor or engine 2. Describing what the machine does without explaining *how* the individual components make it work or *why* it's designed that way 3. Missing or weak diagrams and technical labels, or using everyday language instead of proper mechanical and technical terminology

Complex machines

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