Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a level 3 qualification attracting up to 28 UCAS points (equivalent to 70 UCAS points under the old tariff). EPQ enables learners’ input into the choice and design of their project, using their own interests and topics they have studied to shape the final project output. The qualification enables learners to:
- have significant input to the selection and design of their project and take responsibility for an individual task or a defined task within a group project
- develop and improve their own learning and performance as critical, reflective and independent learners
- develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills
- extend their planning, project management, research, critical thinking, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills both written and oral
- where appropriate, develop as e-confident learners and apply relevant technologies in their studies
- develop and apply skills, creatively demonstrating initiative and enterprise use their learning experiences to support their personal aspirations for further education and/career development
Course Description
The EPQ comprises one taught lesson per week in school, alongside additional research and study outside the classroom. All EPQs will require research, and also a presentation to an audience as the final stage of the process. It is available to study in three different formats (learners choose one of the three):
Dissertation
The outcome for this unit is a written dissertation that addresses a question that the learner can argue, and reach evidenced-based conclusions on. Total word count for this unit is guided at approximately 6,000 words but learners will not be penalised for submitting work that falls outside this range within reason as long as all assessment objectives are addressed. Learners should select a topic from an area that interests them.
The project title should reflect a research question that can be argued for and against using a range of sources that can be analysed and evaluated for usefulness. The dissertation should demonstrate good understanding of the topic area and a clearly argued and well thought-out argument that is supported by several lines of reasoning with counter arguments or alternative interpretations which form the basis of an evidence-based conclusion that addresses the initial research question.
Artefact
The outcome for this unit is based on learners designing and creating a product, which is provided as evidence in a format that can be viewed by the examination board. Learners may choose from a wide variety of products that may not necessarily be related to design and technology. Almost anything which has been researched, designed and created can be used. Previous examples have been musical compositions, pieces of artwork, media products, magazines, coded apps or programmes, outfits / costumes, a suit of armour, etc.
Ideas for the artefact need to be focused, while providing a genuine opportunity for the exploration and development of ideas. Learners need to plan, research, develop and evaluate the artefact. It is expected that it will be accompanied by written evidence of approximately 3,000 words in length, alongside the activity log, Project Proposal form, any other additional evidence such as photos, videos, design sheets etc., and an oral presentation sheet.
Learners need to refine the artefact providing evidence of this; for example, in the form of initial designs and information provided for decisions made and subsequent changes implemented as a result of research and experimentation.
Performance
The outcome for this unit is based on learners carrying out a performance, which is provided as evidence in a format that can be viewed by the examination board. Learners may choose from a wide variety of performance formats that may not necessarily be related to the performing arts or music, such as sports or other activities that support learners in expressing themselves. Ideas for the performance need to be focused, while providing a genuine opportunity for the exploration and development of ideas.
The most successful outcomes are developed from focused and well-defined project objectives. Learners need to plan, research, develop and evaluate the performance. It is expected that the performance will be accompanied by written evidence of approximately 3,000 words in length, alongside the activity log, Project Proposal form and oral presentation sheet. Learners need to refine the performance providing evidence of this; for example, in the form of rehearsal notes and information provided for decisions made and subsequent changes implemented as a result of rehearsals.