EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Board Developed Course (ATAR) - 2 Units
The Year 11 course explores the layers of the Earth, how minerals form, tectonic activity, and energy changes, along with the impact humans have on Earth’s resources and surface.
The Year 12 course looks at how plate movements, water formation, and the arrival of life affect the Earth’s systems, air, water, land, and climate. A strong focus is placed on sustainability and the long-term health of the planet and all living things.
Earth and Environmental Science provides essential knowledge and skills for further study and careers in fields related to geology, environmental management, and sustainability. This subject plays a key role in understanding and solving current and future environmental challenges. It is also important for the responsible use and management of geological resources that support Australia’s sustainable development.
Relevant industries include Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, Education and Training, Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Services, Health Care and Social Assistance, and Mining.
PRE-REQUISITES
Satisfactory completion of Year 10 Science.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Year 11 Topics
• Module 1: Earth’s Resources
• Module 2: Plate Tectonics
• Module 3: Energy Transformations
• Module 4: Human Impacts
Year 12 Topics
• Module 5: Earth’s Processes
• Module 6: Hazards
• Module 7: Climate Science
• Module 8: Resource Management
HSC EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS
A three-hour written exam comprised of:
- Multiple choice 20 marks
- Short answer 80 marks
UNIQUE FEATURES OF THIS COURSE
Practical investigations are an essential part of both the Year 11 and Year 12 course and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time, including time for practical investigations in depth studies.
Students can combine Earth & Environmental Science with ONE or TWO other Science courses selected from Biology, Chemistry, Investigating Science or Physics.
Further information is available on the NESA website.
If a student qualifies, the Earth and Space Science Life Skills Course is available in mainstream classes. More information on Life Skills courses can be found here.