Environmental Science

Study Overview

In VCE Environmental Science, Earth is understood as a set of four interrelated systems: the atmosphere, the biosphere, the hydrosphere and the lithosphere. This study explores how the relationships between these systems produce natural environmental change over a variety of time scales and how these systems respond to change and disruption. Students investigate the extent to which humans modify their environments and the consequences of these changes in local and global contexts with a focus on biodiversity, pollution, food and water security, climate change and energy use.

In undertaking this study, students examine how environmental actions affect, and are affected by, ethical, social and political frameworks. In VCE Environmental Science students develop a range of inquiry skills involving practical experimentation, field work, research, analytical skills including critical and creative thinking, and communication skills. Students use scientific and cognitive skills and understanding to analyse contemporary issues related to environmental science, and communicate their views from an informed position.

Units

Unit 1: How are Earth’s dynamic systems interconnected to support life?
Unit 2: What affects Earth’s capacity to sustain life?
Unit 3: How can biodiversity and development be sustained?
Unit 4: How can climate change and the impacts of human energy use be managed?

2022EnvironmentalScienceSD.docx

Assessment

Field Trips/Excursions
Practical Activities
Case Studies
Topic Tests
Research Investigations
Student designed experiments
Examinations (at the end of each unit)

Prerequisites / Suggested Prior Studies

Year 9 Core Science

Plus, one or more of the following 9/10 electives:

Our Planet Earth

Farm to Fork Food Science

Forensic Science

Consumer Science

Inside the Mind

VCE Units 1 & 2 Environmental Science (prior to studying units 3 and 4 Environmental Science)

Future Pathways

VCE Environmental Science provides for continuing study pathways within the field and leads to a range of careers. Diverse areas of employment range from design, including landscape or building architecture, agriculture (which is an emerging field, with strong employment opportunities), engineering and urban planning (working with local Councils), various science careers, environmental consultancy organizations, politics, lawyers and advocacy, which may involve employment in property management, primary and secondary school teaching, business (both corporate and self-employed), and water quality engineering. Scientists may also work in cross-disciplinary areas such as environmental management and conservation, geology and marine biology.

All students are advised to check the VTAC Guide for information regarding the prerequisite for the course they may wish to pursue. Studying VCE Environmental Science also qualifies as a Science prerequisite for most universities too.

Please check the VTAC guide for further information.