Rationale
Earth and Environmental Science focuses on the interrelationships between Earth’s systems, the environment, sustainability, and the structural, geological, atmospheric and human processes that affect the Earth. Students investigate the Earth’s geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, exploring the dynamics of these systems and how they interact with one another. They learn how to predict changes and evaluate potential impacts on these systems.
Studying Earth and Environmental Science enables students’ understanding of the complex interactions that shape Earth’s systems and how human actions can affect the environment. It promotes sustainability and responsible environmental stewardship. Students explore ideas about how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ ways of Knowing, Being and Doing enhance and provide social and cultural context to Western scientific processes.
Earth and Environmental Science equips students with the tools to understand and predict changes to Earth's systems and environmental processes. This allows students to analyse the impact of human activity, natural hazards and the depletion of resources on the planet. It supports students to make informed decisions about how to sustainably interact with and protect the environment. It also promotes the application of scientific models to predict future environmental changes and their possible effects on society.
The knowledge gained in Earth and Environmental Science is applied through the development of skills such as critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, scientific reasoning and communication. Students learn to analyse, process and evaluate data to form explanations, and address real-world environmental problems. Fieldwork and secondary-source investigations help students acquire practical skills, while communication skills enable them to present findings and conclusions effectively.
The study of Earth and Environmental Science leads to a wide range of post-school pathways, particularly in environmental science, Earth science, sustainability, climate change, research and natural resource management. Students can apply their learning to interdisciplinary studies and engage in addressing global issues such as climate change, resource conservation and environmental degradation. This subject encourages the development of scientifically literate citizens, empowering students to make a difference in creating a sustainable future.