Specification

AQA - The specification and assessment structure can be found at the link: AQA | AS and A-level | Environmental Science | Specification at a glance

By studying Environmental Science you will learn about how physical and biological systems on Earth function and how these can become disrupted. We will investigate and critically evaluate advances in technology to produce energy, food and resources more efficiently. Planet Earth is the only planet we can all live on, so we must look after it and we will investigate ways humans can use resources more sustainably.

Environmental Science at A level covers a wide array of exciting, important topics to enthuse, motivate and develop skills, enabling students to pursue a whole range of careers in the future. Environmental issues are a key part of politics and our lives, whether they be the impact of pollution, the discovery of new alternative energy resources, the destruction of more and more fragile habitats and the development of new sustainable methods for producing vital resources.

The exam board students will follow is AQA. A lot more information can be found on their website, the main points about the course are summarised below:

Paper 1

What's assessed:

• The physical environment
• Energy resources
• Pollution
• Research methods

Students will be expected to draw on knowledge and understanding of the entire course of study to show a deeper understanding of the interconnections between topics.

How it's assessed

Written exam: 3 hours

• 120 marks
• 50% of A-level
• Questions: A combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

Paper 2

What's assessed

• The living environment
• Biological resources
• Sustainability
• Research methods

Students will be expected to draw on knowledge and understanding of the entire course of study to show a deeper understanding of the interconnections between topics.

How it's assessed

Written exam: 3 hours

• 20 marks
• 50% of A-level
• Questions: A combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

Course Content

Year 1

• The living environment
• Biological resources
• The physical environment
• Research methods

Year 2

• Sustainability
• Energy resources
• Pollution
• Research methods

Additional Information

Each A Level Environmental Science group is taught by two teachers working closely together to deliver each section of work. Lessons incorporate class discussion and debate, interactive presentations, written tasks where students have to apply their knowledge, practical activities and ICT tasks. The department provides students with textbooks.

Why choose this course? The biosphere is also an essential component in creating and maintaining life processes on Earth. Unfortunately, many species and biomes are under threat, and you will be able to evaluate how effective management strategies are in trying to save many species from extinction. In your second year we will examine further how humans affect the planet through our demand for energy sources, release of pollutants and need for biological resources. The course embeds scientific enquiry into your learning, and you will have the opportunity to take part in lab investigations and local fieldwork. Planet Earth is the only planet we can all live on, so we must look after it and we will investigate the ways humans can use resources more sustainably.