At Higher Level, Topic 1.1 requires deeper analysis of environmental systems, including quantitative modelling of system inputs, outputs, and storages. HL students must demonstrate more sophisticated evaluation of how environmental systems respond to human intervention and natural change.
Key Idea: People disagree about environmental issues because they have different perspectives and worldviews.
Inputs → Processes → Outputs
🌿 Ecocentric: Nature first. Protect ecosystems. Reduce consumption.
⚙️ Technocentric: Technology solves problems. Innovation. Human ingenuity.
Key Idea: Humans manage nature using laws and sustainable use.
Always link: values → worldview → decision/action. Explain WHY people disagree.
At Higher Level, ESS includes an extended essay component and deeper analytical questioning. Expect longer data-response questions and more complex case study scenarios in both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
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Start studying freeTopic 1.1 Environmental systems forms a core part of Unit 1: Foundations of ESS in IB ESS HL. Mastering these concepts will strengthen your understanding of connected topics across the syllabus and prepare you for exam questions that require analysis, evaluation, and real-world application.
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