This subject is offered as required for both Year 11 and Year 12 students. Successful completion of the preliminary course (Year 11) is essential before undertaking the HSC course (Year 12).
Earth and environmental science in Stage 6 science is the study of the earth and its processes. The course aims to provide an understanding of systems and processes in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. It seeks to explore changes that have occurred during earth's history, including changes in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere and biosphere, and the evolution of organisms since the origin of life on Earth. For the NSW Board of Studies HSC syllabus and related information, please visit www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabus_hsc/earth-env-science.html#syllabus.
The course is designed for those students who have a high achievement level based on the science Stages 4–5 course performance descriptions. It provides a structure that builds upon the foundations laid in Stage 5 yet recognises that students entering Stage 6 have a wide range of abilities, circumstances and expectations.