Environmental Science A Level

For entry into the Sixth Form to study 3 A' Levels, students are required to achieve 5 grades at 9-5 (or where applicable A*-C) including English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4 or above.

In exceptional cases, students that do not reach the entry criteria based on their attainment in English or mathematics will be admitted to the 6th form with the addition of GCSE retake classes in the appropriate subject to their timetable. This based on 6th form discretion.

While we would encourage students to study 3 A levels, in exceptional cases and following conversation at interview we may support a student to study 4. All students will have the option to study for Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A levels.

A grade 6 is recommended in any subject that a student wishes to continue at A Level. Students are welcome to discuss entry criteria for specific subjects and to ensure that their subject choices match their goals and aspirations.

Students wishing to study Mathematics require a grade 6 and in Further Maths require a Grade 7 in the subject at GCSE.

A Level Environmental Science

Specification at a glance
This Qualification is linear. This means students will sit all of their exams at the end of the course.

Subject Content

1. The living environment
   • Conditions for life on Earth
   • Conservation of biodiversity
   • Life processes in the biosphere and conservation planning
2. The physical environment
   • The Atmosphere
   • The Hydrosphere
   • Mineral resources
   • Biogeochemical cycles
   • Soils
3. Energy resources
   • Including the importance of energy resources in both past and future developments and the impact of future energy supply problems.
4. Pollution
   • Including the properties of pollutants and strategies to control different pollutants.
5. Biological resources
   • Agriculture
   • Aquatic food production systems
   • Forest resources
6. Sustainability
   • Dynamic equilibria
   • Energy
   • Material cycles
   • The circular economy
7. Research methods

• Students must understand the general principles of scientific methodology and be able to apply these to a wide range of environmental situations and techniques.
• Students will complete a minimum of 2 days of field work and 12 laboratory based activities.
• At least 15% of the overall assessment of A-level Environmental Science will assess knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to practical work

Assessments

For more information go to
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/environmental-science-7447

To complete an A Level in this subject it is necessary to achieve a Grade 5 at GCSE, although we strongly advise that students should be looking at achieving at least a Grade 6 at GCSE to have a secure platform for entry on to the course.

Why Choose Environmental Science?
If you have a keen interest in the sustainability of our planet you will find this new specification engaging and thought provoking.
This course involves the scientific study of how the environment supports us, how we threaten these support systems, and strategies for a more sustainable lifestyle.
This A level is a great accompaniment to A-levels in Geography, Biology, Physics and Maths and develops key skills including communication, team working and critical thinking.