Earth and Environmental Science

 Module 5: Earth's Processes

2023 Term 4 Weeks 1 - 10

Since the formation of the Earth, both the atmosphere and lithosphere have been continually changing, each influencing the other. The processes of plate tectonics, together with the formation of water and the introduction of life, have further contributed to these changes. All three, in combination, 

have altered and continue to alter both the atmosphere and lithosphere.

With the discovery of fossils, it became possible to develop the geological timescale and to determine when mass evolution and extinction events occurred. Both were and are strongly influenced by the phases of the plate tectonic supercycle, which has a significant effect on climate. This knowledge gives us new 

information about climate and natural cycles of change.

In this module, students focus on analysing trends, patterns and relationships in data to solve problems and communicate ideas about the evolution of the Earth. 

 Module 6: Hazards

2024 Term 1 Weeks 1-8

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic activity and cyclones have a significant impact on the Earth’s environment, and often affect thousands of people, causing enormous damage. In many cases, the probability of such an event occurring is closely linked to an area’s proximity to a plate boundary. The type of plate boundary can also influence the severity of the event. 

To some extent, technologies can be used to predict hazardous events and mitigate their effects. However, humans are still not able to prevent these events from occurring. Whether the climate alters the frequency and magnitude of these events is also uncertain. Students will explore the use, development and analysis of seismic data in order to examine significant seismic events. 

In this module, students focus on developing and evaluating questions and hypotheses when designing and conducting investigations. They analyse qualitative and quantitative data about the evolving Earth. 

Module 7: Climate Science

2024 Term 2 Weeks 1-9

A significant global concern of governments and non-government bodies relates to natural and scientific evidence of anthropogenic climate variation. The acidification and warming of oceans can impact on marine life, and evidence indicates that rising sea levels could also impact on human communities in low-lying locations around the world. 

Students examine the mechanisms and scientific evidence for climate variation. They distinguish between evidence of natural processes and scientific evidence of anthropogenic influences, which both cause the Earth’s climate to change. Students are provided with opportunities to form evidence-based opinions on, develop strategies to manage, the effects of climate variation in the future. 

Module 8: Resource Management

2024 Term 3 Weeks 1-2, Weeks 5-9 

Australia is rich in both renewable natural resources (eg agricultural production, sunlight) and non-renewable natural resources (eg minerals, fossil fuels). Students examine how the extraction and disposal of waste can greatly impact on the surrounding environment, affecting the quality and availability of renewable resources such as water and living organisms. The extent of this impact is referred to as an ‘ecological footprint’.

Scientific models of resource extraction, use and management have developed over time in response to new discoveries and through the incorporation of sustainable practices, many of which have been developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. The world’s population is increasing and more natural resources are being extracted to provide food, consumer goods, energy and infrastructure. Sustainable management of both natural resources and waste is vital for human long-term survival.

In this module, students examine how the extraction and disposal of waste can greatly impact on the surrounding environment, affecting the quality and availability of renewable resources such as water and living organisms.