EXAMS AND GRADING

These assessment objectives (AO) reflect how the aims of the environmental systems and societies (ESS) course will be assessed. The intention is that you, in the context of environmental systems and related issues, can fulfil the following assessment objectives.

AO1: Knowledge and understanding

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• relevant concepts, theories and perspectives

• data and data manipulation

• methods and models

• relevant case studies and real-world examples.

AO2: Application and analysis

Explain, analyse and develop:

• relevant concepts, theories and perspectives

• data and data interpretation

• methodologies and models

• clear explanations and arguments

• relevant case studies and real-world examples.

AO3: Evaluation and synthesis

Evaluate and synthesize:

• relevant concepts, theories and perspectives

• data, and use it to inform and justify conclusions

• methodologies and models, recognizing their value and limitations

• arguments and proposed solutions to environmental issues

• environmental issues within their political, economic, ethical, social and cultural contexts.

AO4: Use and application of appropriate skills

• Identify an appropriate environmental issue and research question for investigation.

• Select and demonstrate the use of appropriate methodologies and skills to carry out ethical investigations into environmental issues.

Here are previous grade boundaries for ESS (old syllabus):

The descriptors of a 9 marker are given below: