Earth and Environmental Science builds upon the knowledge and Working scientifically skills gained from the Earth and Space strand taught in science K–10. Students engage with the processes that have come to shape and influence the physical and biological worlds.

Earth and Environmental Science lies at the intersection between the Earth's four spheres. As such, it has a unique opportunity to give students an ability to become aware of, and better understand, the interconnectedness of the natural sciences that may otherwise be missed.

The syllabus maintains an equal focus on Earth science and environmental science. Throughout the course, an emphasis is placed on the processes that bring about natural phenomena that can be observed all over the Earth, including a student's local environment creating a sense of relevance and connectedness with the subject. There are opportunities for students to engage in contemporary Earth science, including human impacts, climate science and resource management.

Have your say – syllabus consultation

NESA will release the draft Earth and Environmental Science 11–12 Syllabus and the Life Skills syllabus for public consultation as part of the NSW Curriculum Reform.

View the NESA information videos on Have your say – Earth and Environmental Science 11–12 (staff only).

Support materials for the Earth and Environmental Science Syllabus (2017)

The following support materials may be adapted by teachers to meet the individual needs of their schools.

External resources

The following websites may be useful for the teaching of Earth and Environmental Science.

• Australian Earth Science Education – presentations, investigations and readings mapped to the NSW Stage 6 curriculum
• Geoscience Australia – virtual exhibits, videos, teacher resource booklets and student activities
• Teacher Earth Science Education Programme (TESEP) – online and in the field professional learning for teachers, teaching resources and interactive online student resources