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The Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 Syllabus explores the Earth’s renewable and non-renewable resources and 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 Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 Syllabus explores the Earth’s renewable and non-renewable resources and 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.
Who should do this course?
Who should do this course?
Students who:
gain a Grade A to C in Year 10 Science course
have an interest in investigating Earth and Environmental Science through theoretical work, fieldwork, research and practical work.
Note: Consider combining this course with Biology, Chemistry, Investigating Science and Physics if you are considering tertiary studies in Science.
Student reflections
Student reflections
All science subjects demand the use of adequate written skill and comprehension to be able to successfully answer assessment questions.
Here are some comments made by students who wish to study this subject:
Here are some comments made by students who wish to study this subject:
“I want to choose EES (Earth and Environmental Science) so I can learn more about how the world works. I believe that EES will give me the necessary pathways to succeed. I believe studying the world around us, how the Earth is made up and the resources within the Earth can inform me on how to take better care of this planet. Choosing EES can be the change that I need in order to make small benefits to our world globally, nationally and even just in our community.”
“.EES is an interesting topic that opens up our career oaths to do with the environment. You can learn about how the Earth is made which I find fascinating. It also ties hand in hand with Geography which I plan on taking and this will help with studying as you could easily see the links across both subjects. This hopefully will lead to a higher performance in my HSC. I am hopeful that studying this subject will improve my impact upon this world.”
“I have no doubt that EES will be a great course for Years 11 and 12 students to partake in. It will link up with Geography and I am looking forward to learning all about the Earth’s resources, plate tectonics and human impacts. I think we have a lot to learn about this planet and how to help preserve the great world we live in.”
How is this course taught
How is this course taught
The subject has a Preliminary course and a HSC course. The courses are organised into 8 modules.
The Preliminary Course studies Earth’s Resources, Plate Tectonics, Energy Transformations and Human Impacts. This is a 120 hours’ course with 15 hours allocated to Depth studies within the mandatory indicative hours. One fieldwork exercise must be included in Year 11.
The HSC course builds on the preliminary course. It includes the study of Earth’s Processes, Hazards, Climate Science and Resource Management. This is a 120 hours’ course with 15 hours allocated to Depth studies within the mandatory indicative hours. One fieldwork exercise must be included in Year 12.
Scientific investigations include both practical investigations and secondary-sourced investigations. Practical investigations are an essential part of the Year 11 course and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time, including time allocated to practical investigations in depth studies.
How is the work assessed
How is the work assessed
60% Skills in working scientifically
40% Knowledge and understanding of course content
What are Depth Studies
What are Depth Studies
A depth study is any type of investigation/activity that a student completes individual or collaboratively that allows the further development of one or more concepts found within or inspired by the syllabus. It may be one investigation/activity or a series of investigations/activities.
Requirements for Depth Studies:
A minimum of 15 hours of in-class time is allocated in both Year 11 and Year 12.
At least one depth study must be included in both Year 11 & Year 12.
The two Working Scientifically outcomes of Questioning and Predicting and Communication must be addressed in both Year 11 and Year 12.
A minimum of two additional Working Scientifically skills outcomes, and further development of at least one Knowledge and understanding outcome, are to be addressed in all depth studies.
What should I be able to do at the end of this course
What should I be able to do at the end of this course
Apply experimental skills in observation, manipulation, measurement and experimental design including fieldwork
engage with technologies that assist in developing earth and environmental science applications.
How will this subject help me in the future?
How will this subject help me in the future?
Career opportunities for students interested in geology, engineering, metallurgy, environmental management, construction, economic geologist and geosciences.
Careers can include:
Geologist, Environmental consultant, Geophysicist, Economic geologist, Palaeontologist, Zoologist, Geomorphologist, Museum caretaker, Cartographer
What does this course cost?
It may cost a charge for an e-book/workbook
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