Extended project
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Re: Extended project
The EPQ is liked by universities as it shows aptitude for prolonged independent study. About half the marks are for the log book which details the process of research, how it was undertaken and on which dates, etc. Some marks go on the presentation given on the project at the end. Students learn to reference correctly; carry out research, and the broader the variety and sources of research demonstrated, the higher the marks gained. I believe I am correct in saying that the work is likely to be marked by a non-specialist in the actual subject, which suggests it is the researc and organizational skills which are paramount.
It is the A Level equivalent to the very highly regarded Extended Essay in the IB and the skills are those needed at university. It takes a significant amount of organization and time. It is unlikely to be included in the actual offer, though when choosing between two candidates of similar merit, it should give an advantage.
If your son hasn't already started or thought much about this, I would think it might be a little bit late to start with mocks coming up within two months. If he is really keen though and has a topic in mind, I wouldn't like to dissuade him if the school is supportive. This should have been introduced to him before summer really. Ithink the EPQ deadline is Feb. I also think that since evidence has to be given of research continuing over a period of time, so you should not, in theory, be able to squash all work in over a period of 6 weeks, though I think some do and "tweak" the dates in their log books accordingly. The school co ordinator would have to collude in this slight "fudging" though as he/she should be having regular meetings to monitor progress.
It is the A Level equivalent to the very highly regarded Extended Essay in the IB and the skills are those needed at university. It takes a significant amount of organization and time. It is unlikely to be included in the actual offer, though when choosing between two candidates of similar merit, it should give an advantage.
If your son hasn't already started or thought much about this, I would think it might be a little bit late to start with mocks coming up within two months. If he is really keen though and has a topic in mind, I wouldn't like to dissuade him if the school is supportive. This should have been introduced to him before summer really. Ithink the EPQ deadline is Feb. I also think that since evidence has to be given of research continuing over a period of time, so you should not, in theory, be able to squash all work in over a period of 6 weeks, though I think some do and "tweak" the dates in their log books accordingly. The school co ordinator would have to collude in this slight "fudging" though as he/she should be having regular meetings to monitor progress.
Re: Extended project
Thank you phaedra. My son has chosen a subject and has just started on the research process. I will discuss it with him tonight and make sure that he is enthusiastic about it. The school co-ordinator assigned to him is a lovely lady and a very good teacher, she gets on well with my son and apparently asked to be his co-ordinator, so I have no doubt he will have lots of support and encouragement.
Re: Extended project
Many thanks for all your good advice. I will let you know what my DS decides. 
