Topic 1: Systems & Models

Essential Ideas

• Our world is composed of systems; different parts working together as a whole.

• These systems can be represented by simplified models to aid understanding and enable us to make predictions.

Assessment Standards

• 1.1.1 Outline the concept and characteristics of systems.

• 1.1.2 Apply the systems concept on a range of scales.

• 1.1.3 Define the terms open system, closed system and isolated system.

• 1.1.4 Describe how the 1^st and 2^nd laws of thermodynamics are relevant to environmental systems.

• 1.1.5 Explain the nature of equilibria.

• 1.1.6 Define and explain the principles of positive feedback and negative feedback.

• 1.1.7 Describe transfer and transformation processes.

• 1.1.8 Distinguish between flows (inputs and outputs) and storages (stock) in relation to systems.

• 1.1.9 Construct and analyze quantitive models involving flows and storages in a system.

• 1.1.10 Evaluate the strengths and limitations of models.

Key Vocabulary

• Systems

  • Open

  • Closed

  • Isolated

• Matter

• Energy

• Thermodynamics

  • First Law

  • Second Law

• Equilibrium

  • Steady-State

  • Static

• Feedback Loops

  • Positive

  • Negative

• Transfer

• Transform

• Flow

• Storage

• Scale

• Model

"Topic 1: Part 1" by NicheScience (13:27)

Systems Project - Complete this assignment to demonstrate your understanding of systems (Summative).