1. Foundations of environmental systems and societies

1.1 Environmental value systems

Significant ideas: Historical events, among other influences, affect the development of environmental values systems and environmental movements. There is a wide spectrum of environmental value systems each with their own premises and implications.

Resources:

Power points	Case Studies	Activities	Useful Links
Environmental systems & societies Topic 1.1 Applications and Skills	Greenpeace - can direct action bring results? Whale Hunting	Historical Events  EVS activity

1.2 Systems and models

Significant ideas: A systems approach can help in the study of complex environment issues. The use of models of systems simplifies interactions but may provide a more holistic view than reducing issues to single processes.

Resources:

Power points	Case Studies	Activities	Useful Links
Systems and models t 1.2 Application and Skills	Model of a closed system: Biosphere 2	Create a model ecosystem in a jar {Create a mesocosm ( introduction)

1.3 Energy and equilibria

Significant ideas: The laws of thermodynamics govern the flow of energy in a system and the ability to do work. Systems can exist in alternative stable states or as equilibria between which there are tipping points. Destabilizing positive feedback mechanisms will drive systems toward these tipping points, whereas stabilizing negative feedback mechanisms will resists such changes

Resources:

Power points	Case Studies	Activities	Useful Links
Energy and equilibria T 1.3 Applications and Skills		Equilibrium and Feedback review	Energy and equilibria- Resilience and Tipping Point

1.4 Sustainability

Significant ideas: All systems can be viewed through the lens of sustainability Sustainable development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Environmental indicators and ecological footprints can be used to assess sustainability. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) play an important role in sustainable development.

Resources:

Power points	Case Studies	Activities	Useful Links
Sustainability T1.4 Applications and Skills	Gorges Dam	Exam practice

1.5 Humans and pollution

Significant ideas: Pollution is a highly diverse phenomenon of human disturbance in ecosystems. Management strategies can be applied at different levels.

Resources:

Power points	Case Studies	Activities	Useful Links
Humans and Pollution T1.5 Applications and Skills		Pollution Brochure/Poster project The dilemma of DTT debate Pollution assignment ( Pinterest Pit)	Pollution Threats WWF Nature of Pollution Video