Level 3 Earth and Space Science*

3ESS
Course Description

Teacher in Charge:

This course covers topics such as geological dating of the rocks of the local area, how the ocean and atmospheric systems work, a choice of an investigation in either an Earth or space context and a look at the possibility of life or the conditions for life in other parts of the solar system. Students will be able to explain these concepts as well as designing and carrying out a practical experiment to collect data and test relationships.

Learning Opportunities

In this course you will need to:

Develop these skills:Explore this content:
  • Scientific thinking
  • Geological dating of rocks of the local area.
  • Self management
  • The processes in the Ocean OR atmospheric systems.
  • Experimental analysis
  • A self- managed investigation into an ESS topic chosen by the students.
  • Written communication
  • Investigating the possibility of life or the conditions for life in other parts of the solar system.

Field trips (no cost) will occur mostly in term 1, but there is a possibility of a visit to RocketLab and AUT’s large radio telescope. Most field trips will depart and arrive back at school during school hours.


Year Levels/Departments:

Science, Seniors


Resources Required

1B8 or 1E8 exercise book or similar
14J8 refill graph paper
ESA Level 3 Earth and Space Science Learning Workbook (recommended)
Scientific or graphic calculator