Active learning ideas
Agriculture is a primary driver of environmental change, and this topic examines the balance between food security and ecological health. Students analyse intensive farming methods, including the use of synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, and heavy machinery, and their roles in soil degradation and biodiversity loss. The topic also explores sustainable alternatives like Integrated Pest Management (IPM), organic farming, and conservation tillage, aligning with AQA standards on agriculture and biodiversity.
Activity 01
Students act as farmers managing a crop. They must choose between chemical pesticides, biological controls, or IPM. They face 'random events' like pest resistance or weather changes to see which strategy is most resilient.
How does intensive agriculture degrade soil structure?
Activity 02
Stations feature different techniques: hydroponics, agroforestry, and permaculture. Students move between stations to identify how each technique addresses a specific environmental issue, such as water scarcity or soil erosion.
What are the ecological consequences of pesticide use?
Activity 03
Students individually calculate the energy efficiency of producing 1kg of beef versus 1kg of wheat. They pair up to discuss the environmental implications of 'eating lower on the food chain' before sharing with the class.
How can integrated pest management improve food security?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Organic farming uses no pesticides.
Organic farmers can use certain naturally derived pesticides, though they prioritise biological and mechanical controls. Peer research into organic standards helps students understand the nuances of different certification schemes.
Hydroponics is always more sustainable than soil-based farming.
While it saves water and space, hydroponics is often very energy-intensive due to lighting and climate control. A collaborative investigation into the 'energy footprint' of different systems helps students see the trade-offs.
Methods used in this brief
Forestry and Sustainable Timber Production
An exploration of global deforestation drivers and the ecological importance of forest biomes. Students will evaluate sustainable forestry certifications and practices.
8 methodologies
Aquatic Food Production Systems
This topic investigates the sustainability of marine fisheries and the rise of aquaculture. Students will assess the impacts of overfishing and bycatch on marine food webs.
8 methodologies
Biodiversity Conservation Strategies
Students will evaluate in-situ and ex-situ conservation methods for protecting endangered species. They will analyse the effectiveness of wildlife corridors and protected areas.
8 methodologies