AQA A Level Environmental Science
What’s it about?
As a science and an A level, Environmental Science has been available as a qualification now for over 20 years. We are becoming increasingly aware of how fragile our planet and its resources are. We are becoming more concerned about the sustainability of our planet and how life will be for future generations. It is more important than ever that we have educated young people who understand the planet, our population, the challenges we face and how we can overcome them.
Environmental Scientists do this through understanding the science, the measurable data, where there is really an issue and where there is not, and suggest practical and scientific solutions. Environmental scientists believe that consideration of environmental issues and any conclusions reached should be based on reliable evidence-based information and quantitative data. Additionally students must develop an understanding of how human society relies upon our Earth’s natural systems for resources and life support. By understanding these systems we can then propose changes in society that would produce more sustainable lifestyles and safeguard future generations
Entry Requirements:
We would recommend a grade 5 at GCSE in Science and a grade 5 at GCSE in English.
Contacts:
Dr. J Hitchcock – Director of Teaching and Learning
The Canterbury Academy Sixth Form
Course Content
- The living environment
- The physical environment
- Energy resources
- Pollution
- Biological resources
- Sustainability
- Research methods
Assessment:
There are 2 exams Paper 1 and Paper 2
Paper 1 is a 3 hour exam a combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing question and covers:
• 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.
Paper 2 is a 3 hour exam a combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions and covers:
• 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.
Progression:
Students may go on to study degrees in environmental, marine, earth science, animal and conservation related topics. This course goes well alongside A Level Biology, Geography and Chemistry