AQA's A-Level Environmental Science (7447) is a course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the natural environment and the issues it faces. It promotes an integrative approach to topics, linking ideas in both physical and human environmental science.

The course encompasses a broad range of topics, including atmospheric systems, the water cycle, soil systems, biological systems and resources, and the influences and impacts of human activity on the environment. It also explores how different resources are used and managed, and how scientific principles can be applied to protect the environment.

the course content typically includes:

• Physical Systems: This component includes atmospheric systems, lithosphere systems, hydrosphere systems, and biosphere systems.

• Human Interactions: This component covers human populations, human health and disease, agriculture and forestry, energy resources, water resources, mineral resources, pollution, and conservation and sustainability.

The course involves a mix of theoretical study, practical work, and fieldwork. It encourages students to develop practical skills in laboratory and fieldwork contexts, with an emphasis on data analysis and interpretation.

Assessment for the A-Level Environmental Science course is typically through two written exams:

• Paper 1: This paper assesses physical environmental systems, such as atmospheric and water systems, earth systems, and ecosystems.

• Paper 2: This paper assesses the interaction between people and the environment in areas like energy and water resources, pollution, and conservation.

Each exam contributes to 50% of the A-Level and is designed to test a range of skills, including knowledge and understanding of environmental science concepts, the ability to apply this understanding, and the ability to analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information, ideas and evidence.

Assessments

Paper 1

What's assessed

• The physical environment

• Energy resources

• Pollution

• Research methods

Students will be expected to draw on knowledge and understanding of the entire course of study to show a deeper understanding of the interconnections between topics.

How it's assessed

• Written exam: 3 hours

• 120 marks

• 50% of A-level

Questions

A combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

Paper 2: 

What's assessed

• The living environment

• Biological resources

• Sustainability

• Research methods

Students will be expected to draw on knowledge and understanding of the entire course of study to show a deeper understanding of the interconnections between topics.

How it's assessed

• Written exam: 3 hours

• 120 marks

• 50% of A-level

Questions

A combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.