IB ESS HL · Unit 3 of 8

Unit 3: Biodiversity and Conservation

Unit 3 of IB Environmental Systems and Societies covers Biodiversity and Conservation. This unit contains 6 topics and 15 sub-topics. Below you'll find free study notes, flashcards, and exam preparation resources for every topic in this unit.

6 topics15 sub-topics

ESS Flashcards Exam technique guide

What Unit 3 covers

HL Unit 3 adds the Simpson diversity index, extended case studies of conservation effectiveness, and deeper statistical analysis of biodiversity data. Students must calculate and interpret diversity indices and evaluate conservation strategies with greater quantitative rigour.

Topics in Unit 3

3.1

Biodiversity

3 sub-topics

3.2

Natural selection, variation and speciation

3 sub-topics

3.3

Threats to biodiversity

2 sub-topics

3.4

Conservation strategies

2 sub-topics

3.5

Protected areas, corridors

2 sub-topics

3.6

In situ vs ex situ conservation

3 sub-topics

Study tip: Work through the topics in order — each builds on concepts from the one before. Start with notes, then reinforce with flashcards and practice questions.

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Unit 2 Unit 4