1. The Extended Project Qualification
OCR Level 3 Extended Project H856
The Extended Project Qualification
Starting Out with the EPQ

2. Quick Recap on the EPQ
What can you tell me about the EPQ so far?

3. Key EPQ Messages Equivalent to an AS Level Completed in a year
Has up to 70 UCAS points attached to it
Universities and Employers love the EPQ
It can lead to a reduced university grades offer
Excellent for developing your skills
Not just about the final project, but the process to get there
You also have to make a presentation at the end
Independent learning – your supervisor will not do it for you!
Chance to do it on almost anything you want
You can do the EPQ in all different ways
Students often say it was the best thing they did in the Sixth Form as they were able to pursue a real interest

4. What can you do for the EPQ?
You must: Either create an artefact, performance, design e.g. a book, object, computer programme, play production etc which must be accompanied by a written report of 1,500 – 2,500 words in which you explain the planning, decision-making process and development of your plan to the creation of the artefact Or write a 5,000 word dissertation/investigation analysing a topic of your choice

5. How is it assessed?
Your supervisor will award you with marks at the end of the EPQ based on your abilities to:
Manage (AO1) 12 marks 20%
Use resources (AO 2) 12 marks 20%
Develop and realise (AO3) 24 marks 40%
Review (AO4) 12 marks 20%
Total marks %
There is a key point to grasp here: it is more about the ongoing process than the final outcome (60:40), BUT the actual project is still vital!

6. The Taught Element of the EPQ
EPQ requires:
your project (c. 70%)
a taught element (c. 30%)
The Taught Element:
staff sessions
student online learning
Staff sessions will cover areas such as:
reading and note-taking
using visual material
referencing and avoiding plagiarism
report writing
presentation skills

7. Student Online Learning
Future Learn – online platform for British universities run by the Open University
MOOCs – Massive Open Online Courses
Free and open to all
I would recommend you look at the Future Learn site for all sorts of opportunities to extend yourself with your A Level subjects, possible degree areas and career choices
Developing Your Research Project – University of Southampton
8 week course
approximately 1 hour per week
starts Monday 12 September (next Monday!)
ends Saturday 05 November (so includes the 2 half term weeks)
Requirement at RHS for completion of your EPQ

8. Student Online Learning
Now we are going to get all of you to sign up to do the Future Learn course: Developing Your Research Project – University of Southampton
iPads now needed (or if no iPad, take notes on what to do and ensure it is all done before Monday)

9. Student Online Learning

10. Next session Monday 12th September (Week 2B) Period 1
All come to the Burns Recital Hall