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ENV101 - Earth Systems

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Environmental Science

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

(SES101)

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit provides a foundation for the study of environmental science, and aims to provide students with an understanding of the basics of the earth as a system of systems. In particular, the unit focuses on each of the earth's major subsystems in turn - the lithosphere, atmosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere, and the interactions within and between each of them. Students will use a range of tools to identify and interpret patterns and processes in Earth's systems, interactions and change.

This unit is Online Reliant. Students will use their computer to access online learning material, weekly classes/recordings and assessment. It is expected that students will have regular access to the internet. To complete the practical's, external students will need to download free software from the internet.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Identify and describe the key characteristics and processes of each of Earth's four spheres (lithosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere)
2.	Discuss the interactions between the lithosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere and how they link to influence earth as a system of systems.
3.	Apply a range of tools to identify and interpret patterns and processes in Earth's systems.
4.	Locate, evaluate and organise data, information and literature relating to Earth's systems, interactions and change.
5.	Communicate scientific information about Earth's systems and interactions clearly and coherently using appropriate written or visual formats.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Online quiz (30 min)	10%	1,2,3
2.	Scientific report (1500-2000 words)	30%	2,3,4,5
3.	Practical assessment (6 practicals, mix of written paragraphs, diagrams, and equations, approximately 1-2 pages of answers per practical)	30%	1,2,3,4
4.	Scientific Poster (400-700 words) and audio recording (5 minutes)	30%	1,2,3,4,5

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	Semester 2	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View
2026	Semester 2	External	External Studies	OLR	View

* Timetable will be displayed in new tab or window depending on your browser's configuration; ensure Pop-ups are allowed for this site to view the timetable.

OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2026 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
2026 Incidental Fees (PDF)