1. Introduction to Level 3 EPQ
AQA

2. What is the EPQ? A research/process based qualification
It is the equivalent of half an A 'Level (28 UCAS points = A*)

3. What does it involve?
Planning and carrying out research on YOUR chosen topic
You can write a 5000 word report/essay OR produce an artefact and write a word report
Keeping an online production log
Giving a short presentation

4. What does it involve?
Attending timetabled lessons where you will receive support from your allocated supervisor
Although it is work you carry out independently you will be expected to meet deadlines
Receiving information on skills needed to complete your project efficiently and effectively, for example:
Time management and creating a detailed project plan
Referencing and creating a bibliography
How to evaluate sources
Analysing qualitative data

5. What will I gain?
You can learn about something you are interested in but have not been taught
You can gain an extra UCAS points (28=A*)
It will enhance a job, college or university application
It will give you the opportunity to develop/learn a wide range of skills

6. Estimated timeline
Sept/Oct: Choosing a project, project proposal and approval
Oct: Creating a detailed project plan and researching
Nov - Jan: Researching and producing your ‘product’
January: final research if needed and finishing your ‘products’
March: Presentations (your ‘product’ needs to be completed before you carry out your presentation)
April-May: Submission of projects

7. Start thinking about ideas for a project and it’s format.
Think about what would benefit you the most.
Have a look at ‘Trinity School EPQ Student Guide’ on the school website (please ignore the registration details for Projectq)

8. Choosing a PROJECT/topic

9. Two things to consider:
The format
The topic

10. The Format – essay/report
Approximately 5,000 words
It has to be evaluative NOT DESCRIPTIVE
Based on your research
Include referencing, bibliography and an evaluation of sources

11. The Format – Artefact
Produce an artefact which could take one of many forms such as designing, writing, making or performing something
Whatever you produce, it must be based on a substantial amount of research and you have to have a clear aim/objective
Write word report on the research you carried out and how it enabled you to create your final product
The report must include referencing, bibliography and an evaluation of sources

12. The Format – Artefact Examples of previous artefacts:
Design and produce a 1960’s wedding dress
Design and create a recipe book for university students
Write a gender-neutral story for pre-school children

13. CHOOSE SOMETHING YOU ARE INTERESTED IN!!!!
The Topic
Ideally an area of which you have some background knowledge but have not studied in depth
A topic related to your proposed career or future studies
There should be sufficient and appropriate information/materials available
You may need to do some initial research
CHOOSE SOMETHING YOU ARE INTERESTED IN!!!!

14. What to avoid
The topic CANNOT be covered by any of your A' Level subjects
You CANNOT use the same research being used for another research project e.g. History
Socially sensitive topics
Topics where you have a personal axe to grind
A topic which is too narrow/broad

16. More ideas
Anna loves technology. She studies business, ICT and Art. She is also interested in fashion and is considered to have a ‘unique’ fashion sense by her friends
Possible project: Designing a website for a vintage clothes shop (artefact)

17. Liam studies Maths, English Literature and Dance
Liam studies Maths, English Literature and Dance. He wants to become a professional dancer and is interested in the history of different dance styles
Possible project: To what extent has hip-hop remained true to its roots? (essay)

18. Sam studies Chemistry, Biology and Geography
Sam studies Chemistry, Biology and Geography. She is really interested in animals and would like to study Ecology at university.
Possible project: To what extent do invasive species have a negative effect on a country and is it right to kill them? (essay)

19. Questions? Please contact me via e-mail if you have any questions
Mrs Heslop
L3 Extended Project Coordinator

20. EPQ Summary
Further information can be found under enrichment, service and leadership on the website (Y12 section)
Research based qualification
Produce an artefact report OR 5000 report
You choose your topic
Allocated a supervisor to guide you
Assessment
Production log
Artefact report / 5000 report
Short presentation