Earth and Environmental Science

Prerequisite 

Students wishing to study Earth and Environmental Science should have a good understanding of Stage 5 Science (Grades A-B). 

Course Description

The Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 Syllabus explores the Earth’s renewable and non-renewable resources and also environmental issues. An understanding of the Earth’s resources and the ability to live sustainably on the planet is a central purpose of the study of Earth and Environmental Science. 

The course uses the Working Scientifically skills to develop knowledge through the application of those skills. Students engage with inquiry questions to explore knowledge of the Earth. They also undertake practical and secondary-sourced investigations to acquire a deeper understanding of the Earth’s features and naturally occurring phenomena and cycles. Fieldwork is an integral part of these investigation processes. 

Earth and Environmental Science involves the analysis, processing and evaluation of qualitative and quantitative data in order to formulate explanations and solve problems. In conjunction with knowledge and understanding, communication skills are essential in forming evidence-based conclusions or arguments. 

The Earth and Environmental Science course builds on the knowledge and skills of Earth and Space gained in the Science Stage 5 course. The course maintains a practical emphasis in the delivery of the course content, and engages with technologies that assist in developing earth and environmental science applications. 

The course provides the foundation knowledge and skills required to study earth and environmental science after completing school, and supports participation in careers in a range of related industries. The application of earth and environmental science is essential in addressing current and future environmental issues and challenges. It is also necessary for the use and management of geological resources that are important to Australia’s sustainable future. 

For whom is this subject intended

Earth and Environmental Science is suitable for students who are interested in understanding the earth and its processes, as well as the human impact on environments. The course also provides students with a valuable foundation at university and other tertiary institutions. Tertiary courses include engineering, mining, mine construction and Environmental rehabilitation.

Main Topics Covered

Year 11 course 

●        Earth’s Resources

●        Plate Tectonics

●        Energy Transformations

●        Human Impacts

HSC Course 

●        Earth’s Processes

●        Hazards

●        Climate Science

●        Resource Management

Particular Course Requirements

The Preliminary and HSC course must both include a field study. Practical experiences should occupy a minimum of 35 hours in both the Preliminary and HSC course, including time allocated to practical investigations in depth studies.