Earth and Environmental Science

Module 1: Earth Systems

Term 1 Weeks 1 - 8

This unit is designed to give students an introduction about the Earth being a 'finite' system with a look at some of the characteristics that define this statement. Students will be looking at what we know about planet Earth, how we have proven these facts and investigate some of these findings with first hand investigations. Students will also look at some of the resources and consider the impacts of management on these materials (from past to present and into the future).

Module 2: Plate Tectonics

Term 1 Weeks 9-10, Term 2 Weeks 1 - 5

The Earth’s surface is made of a series of tectonic plates that move and interact with one another. Solid evidence for the theory of plate tectonics was not proposed until the early 20th Century. Initially, the theory was dismissed because of a lack of evidence. Eventually, however, the work of a series of scientists was combined to produce enough evidence to support acceptance of the theory. In many cases, the development of new technologies has allowed the individual pieces of this scientific puzzle be put together. 

The theory of plate tectonics can explain not only the location and causes of earthquakes and volcanoes, but also the location of mountain ranges (both above and under the oceans) and deep ocean floor trenches. This theory also helps to explain many aspects of climate, evolution and extinction, 

and supports predictions about the future.

In this unit, students focus on developing questions and hypotheses when processing data while conducting investigations to analyse trends, patterns and relationships in plate tectonics, and the energy transformations and geological changes that continue to occur.

Module 3: Energy Transformations

Term 2 Weeks 6 - 9, Term 3 Weeks 1-3

Earth’s processes require energy. This energy may be transformed from one form into another or transferred between objects. Energy from the Sun and the Earth’s interior control processes within and between the Earth’s spheres. Heat and gravitational energy in the Earth's interior also drives the movements of tectonic plates. Energy transfers that occur on different timescales between the atmosphere, oceans and land generate weather and climate phenomena. The influence of cyclic phenomena, including El Niño and La Niña, affect global weather patterns. Knowledge of the Earth’s processes and of energy transfer allows scientists to explain phenomena and predict areas at risk.

This unit is designed to allow students to investigate sources of energy that are essential to driving Earth’s processes. Students will apply their understanding of energy transfers and transformations to account for Earth’s dynamic surface and further their knowledge of tectonic plate interactions and geological features. Students will perform secondary investigations and analyse information to identify patterned activity in the Earth’s spheres to understand global weather patterns, explain phenomena and predict future areas at risk.

Module 4: Human Impacts

Term 3 Weeks 4-8, Term 4 week 1-2

This unit is designed for students to develop an understanding that Earth is a finite system. Students will build an appreciation of Earth’s available resources and understand consistent exploitation or poor management, can have consequences on the environment and ultimately human existence. This unit will allow students to question current human activity such as introducing species or manipulating the land, to explain short and long term implications on environments and ecosystems. Developing an awareness of human impact will allow students to apply scientific knowledge to suggest strategies to rehabilitate damaged ecosystems and manage resources to sustain life.