IB - Group 4 - Science

IB ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS AND SOCIETIES- SL: “The Earth is what we all have in common.” ~Wendell Berry

Grades 11 and 12 (Two year course)

Students may take this course for an IB certificate, or as part of the full IB Diploma

IB Environmental Systems and Societies is firmly grounded in both a scientific exploration of environmental systems in their structure and function and in the exploration of cultural, economic, ethical, political, and social interactions of societies with the environment. Students will become equipped with the ability to recognize and evaluate the impact of our complex system of societies on the natural world.  This interdisciplinary course requires a systems approach to environmental understanding and problem-solving, and promotes holistic thinking about environmental issues. It is recognized that to understand the environmental issues of the 21st century and suggest suitable management solutions, both the human and the environmental aspects must be understood.

Core Content:

Topic 1- Foundations of environmental systems and societies

Topic 2- Ecosystems and ecology

Topic 3- Biodiversity and conservation

Topic 4- Water and aquatic food production systems and societies

Topic 5- Soil systems and terrestrial food production systems and societies

Topic 6- Atmospheric systems and societies

Topic 7- Climate change and energy production

Topic 8- Human systems and resource use