Earth and Environmental Science A

Content

Our Earth is a complex being with a story to tell. The Earth functions as the result of a series of interactions between the spheres, including the Geosphere, Biosphere, Hydrosphere and Atmosphere, and allows us to make predictions about the past, present and future of Earth. Students have the opportunity to engage in a hands-on approach to learning through laboratory and fieldwork, developing and extending their inquiry skills.

Topics may include:

• The Earth’s Atmosphere - The composition of gasses in the Earth’s atmosphere has varied over time. Students examine different theories to explain how the atmosphere was derived and explore reasons for its changing composition.

• The Hydrosphere - Students investigate evidence that gives rise to different theories about the origins of water on the Earth. They study the properties of water and how these affect its role in biotic and abiotic environments.

• The Biosphere - Students interpret and evaluate different types of fossil evidence and explore the connections of fossils to past environments and events.

Assessment

Investigations Folio  40%

• SHE Investigation 20% - 750 words if written or a maximum of 5 minutes for an oral presentation or the equivalent in multimodal form

• Design and Deconstruct Practical Report 20% - 750 words

Skills and Applications Tasks  60% 

• Lab Skills and Application 30% - Written and practical: supervised 100 minutes

• Field Skills and Application 30% - 750 words if written or a maximum of 5 minutes for an oral presentation, or the equivalent in multimodal form

Additional Information