Earth and Environmental Science

The Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 Syllabus explores the Earth’s renewable and non-renewable resources as well as 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.

Earth and Environmental Science.mp4

Course Outline

The Year 11 course consists of four modules:

Module 1 Earth’s Resources
Module 2 Plate Tectonics
Module 3 Energy Transformations
Module 4 Human Impacts

The Year 12 course consists of four modules:

Module 5 Earth’s Processes
Module 6 Hazards
Module 7 Climate Science
Module 8 Resource Management

Course Requirements

Students are provided with 15 hours of course time for depth studies in both Year 11 and Year 12. During this time students may undertake an investigation/activity that allows for the further development of one or more scientific concepts.

A depth study may be one investigation/activity or a series of investigations/activities. Depth studies may be included in one module or across several modules.

Practical investigations are an essential part of the Year 11 and 12 courses, and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time, including time allocated to practical investigations in depth studies.

Practical investigations include:

undertaking laboratory experiments, including the use of appropriate digital technologies
fieldwork.

Secondary-sourced investigations include:

locating and accessing a wide range of secondary data and/or information
using and reorganising secondary data and/or information.

In Addition, one fieldwork exercise must be conducted in year 12.

Course Description

The study of Earth and Environmental Science in Stage 6 enables students to develop an appreciation and understanding of geological and environmental concepts that help explain the changing face of the Earth over time. Through applying Working Scientifically skills processes, the course aims to examine how earth and environmental science models and practices are used and developed.

Co-requisites, Prerequisites and Materials

Prerequisites

Science - Minimum B grade
English - Minimum B grade
Maths - Minimum C grade in Advanced (5.3)

Co-requisites:

None (Investigating Science would be an advantage)

Materials

Lab Coat
Calculator
A4 Notebook (for theory work)
A4 Notebook (for practical work)
Spotlight Earth and Environmental Science year 11
Spotlight Earth and Environmental Science year 12

FAQs

Is Earth and Environmental Science hard?

Yes. It requires proficiency with the same Working Scientifically Skills as all other Science Stage 6 courses. Problem solving skills, data processing and analysis skills, as well as the ability to plan and conduct investigations and construct logical, evidence-based arguments and conclusions are essential for success in this course. Ultimately, it is a rewarding subject for which your hard work will pay off.

How many hours a week should I study for Earth and Environmental Science (in addition to my set homework)?

At least 3 hours of study per week is recommended for revision and application of knowledge and skills.

What career pathways can Earth and Environmental Science lead to?

You can view career opportunities here.

I have more questions - who can I ask?

Contact our dedicated Earth and Environmental Science teacher: Mrs. Szarycz

References:The Rational and Course Outline are from the Syllabus: www.educationstandards.nsw.edu.au

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