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11–12Geography 11–12 Syllabus

Record of changes
Implementation from 2024
Expand for detailed implementation advice
OverviewRationaleAimOutcomesContentAssessmentGlossaryTeaching and learning support

Content

Year 12

Ecosystems and global biodiversity
Ecosystems and biodiversity

  • The nature and complexity of ecosystem functioning and global biodiversity

    Including:
    • energy flows and nutrient cycles
    • dynamic equilibrium and feedback loops
    • relationships between natural systems

  • The value of ecosystems and biodiversity

  • The relationship between ecological and human stresses, and the vulnerability and resilience of ecosystems, including ecological integrity and biocapacity

  • The global state of ecosystems and biodiversity

    Including:
    • current and future trends, and reasons for the trends 
    • shifting baselines and tipping points

  • Strategies for the sustainable management of ecosystems at a range of scales, including at least one successful conservation program

  • The role played by Indigenous Peoples in contemporary management practices

Investigation of ecosystems

Students investigate TWO different types of ecosystems. They undertake a study to illustrate each type of ecosystem selected. At least ONE study is to be selected from outside Australia.

For each study, students investigate:

  • The characteristics of the ecosystem, including its spatial pattern and the nature of its biodiversity

  • The dynamics of ecosystem functioning, including vulnerability, resilience and ecological disturbance

  • Human-induced modifications to the ecosystem

  • Responses and strategies, including for maintaining ecosystem functioning and actions for sustainability

  • Differences in ecosystem management, compared with at least one other location, due to economic, political and sociocultural factors

  • The role of contemporary research and innovation in the sustainable management of the ecosystem

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