NCEA Level 1 Chemistry resources - 92021 new in digital and print!

As the new NCEA Level 1 standards continue to evolve, access to high-quality, localised resources is more important than ever. We’ve been working hard to create NCEA Level 1 Chemistry resources that align with the changing requirements, and we’re excited to introduce the first of these engaging and flexible resources. 92021 Chemical Reactions in Context is designed to support NZ Year 11 students in mastering essential chemistry concepts and preparing for their internal assessment. Whether you're a teacher looking for effective NZ Year 11 science resources or a student aiming to ace the NCEA Level 1 92021 internal assessment, this resource is for you.

92021 Chemical Reactions in Context Learning Guide

92021 Chemical Reactions in Context is available* as a printed Learning Guide or LearnWell Digital resource. The content of the printed Learning Guide and its equivalent digital course are aligned, so you can mix-and-match print and digital resources depending on what you or your students prefer.  Here are a couple of reasons you might want to consider using our first Level 1 Science resource (and others we have available!).

Firstly, 92021 Chemical Reactions in Context covers a term’s worth of learning, typically taking 6-7 weeks (around 25 hours) to complete. Additional time will be required for practical laboratory work and assessment. This resource supports students to gain in-depth understanding of chemical reactions that will help them excel in their internal assessment for 92021 Demonstrate understanding of chemical reactions in context (Chemistry and Biology 1.2).

Secondly, all our Learning Guides feature clear, attractive, scaffolded learning journeys. Plain English and a positive, friendly tone encourage students at all levels to achieve. A comprehensive glossary supports literacy and develops subject vocabulary. Activities feature detailed feedback to help learners what’s expected in their answer. These resources have a strong focus on topics and examples relevant to New Zealand students, allowing them to see themselves and their communities reflected.

Highlights 

We've carefully designed these NCEA Level 1 Chemistry resources to meet the needs of Year 11 students here in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

1. Comprehensive structure

This resource is divided into eight engaging sections, each designed to progressively build knowledge. The resource starts with a review quiz to assess what learners already know from their previous chemistry study. Based on their results, learners will be recommended topics to focus on, ensuring that the learning journey is tailored to their individual needs.

The first section reviews key chemistry concepts required at Year 11 level. These include atomic structure, the periodic table, electron arrangements, ions, and ionic compounds. Learners can spend time revising any concepts they need to or quickly skim through what they already know.

As students advance through the resource, they’ll explore:

1. Chemical formulas, word equations, and symbol equations
2. The law of conservation of mass
3. Five types of chemical reactions:

• • Combination reactions
  • Decomposition reactions
  • Combustion reactions
  • Precipitation reactions
  • Neutralisation reactions

Additionally, key learning points summarise the main ideas at the end of each section to help students revise before their assessment. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge to identify and explain chemical reactions in real-world contexts outside of the chemistry laboratory.

2. Flexible learning options

This resource is extremely flexible. You can use it in a way that works for your teaching and learning context. For the 92021 internal assessment, students only need to focus on three out of five possible reaction types. Whether you choose to explore in depth all five reaction types with your students or focus on fewer, the resource provides the flexibility to suit your teaching strategy.

The digital and print editions of this resource align, so you can choose the option that works for you and your learners. The additional tools that are available with the digital resources make it easy to keep track of your students’ progress and personalise the feedback and support you can give them.

3. Real-world contexts

Furthermore, the resource emphasises real-world contexts.  Those chosen are relevant to students in Aotearoa New Zealand, helping to make the complex ideas more accessible. By linking chemistry to everyday life, students gain a deeper understanding of how chemical reactions influence the world around them.

The New Zealand context in LearnWell resources has made a big difference for me in my learning.  I can relate to it. 

- Ruby, student

4. Incorporating mātauranga Māori and te reo Māori in our NCEA Level 1 Chemistry resources

This resource proudly integrates mātauranga Māori and te reo Māori where appropriate. Māori advisors have collaborated with us to present relevant ideas in a way that affirms both mātauranga Māori and the accompanying science concepts. This is part of our broader effort to make science learning more inclusive.  We are on a mission to make resources relevant to all students here in Aotearoa New Zealand.

5. Scientist spotlights and diverse representation

To inspire the next generation of scientists, the resource regularly highlights real-world scientists, particularly Māori and female scientists. These scientist spotlights not only showcase exciting careers in science but also help students from underrepresented groups see themselves as active participants in the STEM field.

6. Options for practical laboratory activities

Hands-on experiments are a key part of learning chemistry. This resource provides suggestions for practical laboratory activities. For students who might miss a laboratory session or are working remotely, videos and example data are provided. This ensures that all students, regardless of their learning environment, can engage with the investigation process.

7. Inquiry-based learning

Finally, at the heart of this resource is the inquiry process, guiding students to ask questions, conduct experiments, and draw conclusions. This process helps deepen their understanding of chemistry concepts, mātauranga Māori and the links between them. Learners are encouraged to explore scientific questions with curiosity. In addition, they will use evidence to form conclusions, reinforcing their connection to real-world science.

Why choose LearnWell’s resources for teaching the new NCEA Level 1 Science standards?

If you're looking for a comprehensive, flexible, and culturally relevant resource to support

NCEA Level 1 students in their internal assessment, our 92021 Chemical Reactions in Context resource is the perfect choice. Here’s why:

• Tailored to the new NCEA Standards: The resource aligns with the new NCEA standards and supports students to achieve at all levels.

• Focus on real-world relevance: By exploring common chemical reactions in everyday life, students gain a practical understanding that goes beyond textbooks.

• Inclusive and diverse: Integration of Mātauranga Māori and diverse scientist profiles ensures the resource resonates with a range of students.

• Flexible learning: Teachers can adapt how they use the material based on student needs, allowing for personalised learning experiences.

Teachers seeking effective NZ Year 11 science resources and students preparing for internal assessments will find this resource designed to help them succeed. With its combination of theory, practical work, and real-world applications, it's the perfect tool.

Preview our new NCEA Level 1 science resources now

If you’d like to review 92021 Chemical Reactions in Context, purchase a copy of the digital resource now for just $8. You can also find the contents and sample pages on our website.

Or, contact our resource expert, Sue Mulrennan, for personalised assistance. Email Sue: sue@learnwell.co.nz

Let’s work together to help every student achieve their best.

*Printed Learning Guide expected late May 2025