New GCE Environmental Studies – launch video

Transcript

AQA Environmental Studies – a new A-level specification

Environmental issues have a major impact on all our lives.

This major revision of the Environmental Science specification to become Environmental Studies is designed to enable students to gain a deep and well informed insight into the environment and the scientific processes that affect it.

The central theme is the development of an understanding of how different events and cycles within the environment interrelate, how they influence subsequent environmental events, the human impact on these events and cycles, and the strategies that can be used to minimise the problems caused.

Key aspects within the specification include areas such as:

Wildlife conservation
Pollution
Global climate change
Environmental resources such as water, energy and food
Sustainability

What's the new specification like?

AQA wanted to develop an Environmental Studies A-level that reflects current environmental issues.

The revision retains many features of the old specification but has been updated and renamed.

The major structural changes are:

6 units to 4
no coursework
uneven weighting of the 2 AS units

At AS we think students need a broad understanding of the environment and how it works.

At A2 the specification enables candidates to gain a greater understanding of important environmental issues and to further develop their skills and understanding of 'How Science Works'.

Students are not required to submit an internally assessed investigation. However, they are expected to carry out appropriate investigative activities. Integral to each unit is the development and use of practical skills relevant to the study of the environment. These skills will be assessed in all 4 units.

What will the exams be like?

The AS qualification consists of 2 written units. We have purposely made these units of different weightings to enable the smaller unit to be entered in the first January of the course if required.

Unit 1 is the smaller of the 2 AS units and is worth 40% of the total AS marks. Unit 2 is worth 60% of the total AS marks.

A2 consists of 2 written units of equal weighting which contain short answer questions, structured questions, comprehension and a choice of essay.

When can students take the exams?

For AS you will have the flexibility to enter students in January and June. In January 2009 Unit 1 will be available. From June 2009 onwards both AS units will be available.

Both A2 units will be available from June 2010.

AQA – enabling you to make informed decisions

With new and updated content, a sound structure and plenty of support, we believe our new Environmental Studies specification is the right choice for you and your students.

For more information come along to a free teacher support meeting