Extended Project Qualification EPQ

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Exam board: AQA

What is the course about?

This course gives you the opportunity to pursue an area of personal interest. You will research and develop a unique project based on your own study. This course is divided into two elements: the taught component and the independent study component. There are 3 pieces to be submitted: a log book, your project and a presentation. The log book is where you keep your reflective notes of the process you go through. The product will be either a 5 000 word essay or a product (artefact, art work, film, animation, web site, performance, exhibition etc) plus a 1 000 word report. The presentation is designed to explain your findings to a non-specialist audience.

 

Duration of course:

One Year.

 

What units/topics will be studied?

During the taught component you will learn a range of university research skills, such as:
• Research and referencing
• Time management
• Essay writing
• Presentation techniques

 

What do I need to study this subject?

You would normally need to be in the second year of a Level 3 course, either BTEC or A Levels. If you are doing A Levels it should be studied as an addition to 3 or 4 A Levels.

 

What can I do to prepare myself to study this subject?

You would need an idea for a project which interests you. Reading about your chosen topic would be useful.

 

Where can this lead me?

Many universities are interested in students doing the Extended Project Qualification as it gives you the sort of skills you will need at university. It can often give you the edge over other students when applying for similar courses. It also gives you the opportunity to pursue an area of interest and develop your independent study skills. Students who have previously completed the qualification felt that it made their first year at university easier.

 

What are the enrichment opportunities as part of this subject?

There are many enrichment activities available including trips to museums, art galleries, theatres, universities and libraries, as well as individually tailored enrichment opportunities which you would devise yourself.