Environmental Science

Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary subject which draws from the Sciences and Social Sciences. Environmental scientists are involved in tackling issues such as global climate change, pollution, use of land and water resources, and changes in wildlife habitats. These issues require an understanding of scientific principles, economic influences, and political action. Source – SQA Course Specification

Environmental Science courses, at all levels, seek to develop pupils' enthusiasm for Environmental Science in a range of contexts as well as enhancing their investigative and experimental skills. Environmental Science uses problem solving to attempt to develop solutions that prevent environmental deterioration and aim for sustainable practices.

National 3, 4 & 5 Environmental Science

In S5 & S6, pupils can choose to study Environmental Science.

National 3, 4 and 5 Environmental Science are each composed of the following units:

· Earth’s Resources

· Living Environment

· Sustainability 

National 3 and National 4 Environmental Science are internally assessed with a formal assessment at the end of each of the units. National 5 is externally assessed with an end of course assessment set by the SQA and a written investigative assignment which is completed in school and marked externally. 

Higher Environmental Science

The Higher Environmental Science course is offered to candidates who have a C or above in National 5 Environmental Science or a Higher in another Science subject. The aim of the course is to allow pupils to develop an understanding of Environmental Science in a variety of contexts and encourage them to develop their investigative and enquiry skills to help work towards becoming global citizens. 

The course is composed of three units:

· Earth’s Resources

· Living Environment

· Sustainability

Higher Environmental Science is externally assessed with an end of course assessment set by the SQA and a written investigative assignment which is completed in school and marked externally.