Foundation Studies Papers

You must study the following three compulsory papers:

First Semester
English Part 1: CAFS001 » Semester A,B & C

This paper will develop your academic reading and writing skills in preparation for undergraduate study. Its primary focus is on developing a competence in writing the basic text types employed in academic English. The reading component will develop skills in processing and extracting meaning from English texts that have an academic focus.

Language and Learning Skills: CAFS003 » Semester A,B & C

This paper will provide you with language skills development in the areas of listening, reading, writing and speaking. The emphasis in this paper is on assignment writing in a university context. This involves library work, reading academic texts and producing well-researched academic essays. In addition, you will have practice in seminar presentation and listening and note-taking.

Second Semester

English Part 2: CAFS002 » (prerequisite - pass English 1) Semester A,B & C

This paper will further develop your academic reading, writing and speaking skills in preparation for undergraduate study. The reading component will further develop skills in processing and extracting meaning from English texts that have an academic focus. The writing component will focus on developing a competence in writing more complex texts used in academic English, reviewing the text types covered in English 1 and introducing the discussion text. You will also have practice in making extended oral contributions to topics with an academic focus from the readings and listening texts.

You must study five of the following optional papers, two in your first semester, three in your second semester. Not all papers will be offered every semester.

Bridging Calculus: CAFS004 »Semester A,B & S

This paper covers pure Mathematics, in preparation for first year university Mathematics papers. It focuses on algebra, co-ordinate geometry, trigonometry, differential and integral calculus, and differential equations.

Bridging Mathematics with Statistics: CUPR008 »Semester A,B & T

The aim of this paper is to cover mathematics and statistics in preparation for first year university mathematics and statistics courses. The paper introduces students to basic mathematics skills, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus and statistics. It is designed to lead in to one of MATH168 Preparatory Mathematics, MATH165 General Mathematics, MATH166 Management Mathematics, or STAT121 Introduction to Statistical Methods.

Bridging Accounting: CAFS006 » Semester A,B & S

This paper covers the conceptual basis of accounting. You will learn to appreciate how basic accounting concepts, processes and systems are applied to different types of organisations and groups of users. In addition, you will gain an understanding of the analysis of accounting systems and the methods of processing accounting data. No prior knowledge of accounting is required.

Bridging General Sciences: CUPR025 »Semester A,B & T

General Science covers material from the four science areas of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences and Physics. While covering the basic concepts in the different science disciplines, the course will be taught using an integrated thematic approach. Themes such as the Waikato River, Fireworks, Superheroes will be enlisted to promote a comprehensive and contemporary science education experience. There will be an emphasis on scientific exploration and skills by including project work, laboratory work and field trips. The cultural perspectives in the understanding of science are also acknowledged by the inclusion of Maori knowledge about the natural and physical world.

Bridging Biology: CAFS009 » Semester A & B

In this paper you will examine biological concepts by experimentation and by studying fundamental concepts relating to the living world around us. You will look at specific animal and plant systems in relation to whole organism functioning, cell organization and function, the importance and action of nucleic acids, genetics, evolution and contemporary techniques in biotechnology. In addition, learning appropriate study skills is emphasized and critical thinking of biology related concepts is encouraged.

Bridging Chemistry: CAFS010 »Semester A,B & S

This paper is designed to prepare students for Level 1 papers in Chemistry. Students will study the nature of matter, atomic theory, periodic trends and bonding, quantitative chemistry, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, and oxidation-reduction.

Bridging Physics: CAFS011 »Semester A,B & S

In this course, you will be guided to explore the physical laws of nature both experimentally and by studying the basic concepts and principles that govern our understanding of the physical world and the universe. In particular, you will study, investigate and apply scientific concepts and principles in Mechanics, Wave Motion, Electricity and Magnetism, and Atomic/ Nuclear Physics. These ideas will be learnt in an environment that is enriched by demonstrations and experiments.

Comparative Cultures: CAFS013 »Semester A & B

The humanities are at the center of learning about what it is to be human. The humanities include the study of reading, writing, language and thinking. These subjects are the key to understanding cultural diversity. The humanities interpret human experiences and students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills. One of the essential ingredients in the humanities is the study of culture; for example, the similarities and the differences in the way cultural groups express themselves and the reasons these occur.

English for Specific Purposes CAFS099 »Semester A,B & S

This paper will develop academic vocabulary, reading and paraphrase/summary skills, academic writing, and relevant pronounciation and grammar skills, in preparation for undergraduate study. The paper is desinged to provide language support in the context of the other elective papers taken by Foundation Studies students.

Bridging Social Sciences: CUPR004 »Semester A,B & C

This paper provides students with a structured and focussed introduction to the Social Sciences. It is also designed to bridge students into other degrees, such as the BMS, BTchg and LLB. It draws on historical and contemporary examples in order to illustrate how important events and ideas have shaped the modern social science subjects.

With academic approval student may take the following papers Introduction to Study Skills: CUPR001 »Semester A,B

This is a skills-based paper which focuses on note-taking, research, essay writing, exam preparation, and other learning processes that are fundamental to successful university study.

CUPR002 Introduction to Critical Thought and Expression: CUPR002 »Semester A,B

In this paper, students are introduced to the skills and concepts of critical throught and expression which help them to maximise their success at university.