United Kingdom · National Curriculum Attainment Targets
Year 12 Environmental Science.
This Year 12 Environmental Science curriculum provides a comprehensive introduction to the physical environment, the biosphere, and the impact of human activities. Students will develop their scientific analytical skills whilst exploring contemporary environmental issues and sustainable solutions.
01The Physical Environment
An exploration of the Earth's physical systems, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere, and how they interact to support life.
Explore the composition and structure of the Earth's atmosphere. Analyse how atmospheric processes regulate global temperatures and climate.
Investigate the distribution and properties of global water resources. Examine the impacts of over-abstraction and the need for sustainable water management.
Study the formation, extraction, and processing of mineral resources. Evaluate the environmental impacts of mining and the principles of a circular economy.
Analyse the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles. Understand how human activities disrupt these natural cycles and explore mitigation strategies.
02The Living Environment
A detailed study of biodiversity, the conditions required for life on Earth, and the strategies used to conserve vulnerable ecosystems.
Review the historical conditions that allowed life to develop on Earth. Discuss how early life forms altered the environment to support greater biodiversity.
Examine the importance of biodiversity and the primary threats to global species. Evaluate the effectiveness of international conservation agreements and legislation.
Explore strategies for protecting and managing diverse habitats. Assess the role of protected areas, rewilding, and captive breeding programmes.
03Energy Resources
An evaluation of global energy demands, comparing the environmental impacts of non-renewable and renewable energy technologies.
Analyse global energy consumption patterns and the factors influencing energy demand. Discuss the concept of energy security in a modern context.
Investigate the extraction, processing, and use of fossil fuels and nuclear power. Evaluate the environmental and economic costs associated with these resources.
Evaluate the viability of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Consider the geographical and technological limitations of each.
Explore methods for improving energy efficiency in domestic, industrial, and transport sectors. Assess the role of building design in reducing energy consumption.
04Pollution and Environmental Harm
An investigation into the properties, sources, and impacts of various pollutants, alongside strategies for environmental remediation.
Define the characteristics of pollutants, including toxicity, persistence, and mobility. Understand how these properties determine environmental impact and degradation.
Study the sources and effects of major atmospheric pollutants like sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates. Evaluate strategies for reducing air pollution.
Investigate the causes and consequences of water pollution, including thermal pollution, oil spills, and nutrient runoff. Analyse methods for treating and preventing aquatic contamination.