VCE Environmental Science

Photo Source

 “On Borrowed Time” is an on-line resource for learning how to manage our environment. The CSIRO has developed two interactive eco-challenges for students. You can play the role of a farmer managing a sustainable farm while still making a profit or be a forest ranger balancing the needs of five vulnerable species while preserving the jobs of local people. These challenges are ideal for learning about the factors that need to be considered when making management decisions and give students an understanding of the process of environmental management.

As well as the interactive challenges (EcoFarm and EcoForest) there are four inquiry-based teaching and learning units (Adaptations, Forests, Fire and Farming) each with English, Maths and Science activities. David Lindenmayer has based this learning resource on his book titled “On Borrowed Time”.

I asked our Year 11 and 12 students why Environmental Science was a good subject choice:

(1) You can get good marks if you work hard

(2) Good chance to get a year 12 subject under your belt in Year 11

(3) It has a bit of all the sciences – biology, chemistry, physics and earth science.

(4) A science subject is good for university pre-requisites

(5) It is an interesting subject that includes a lot of important environmental issues frequently in the media

(6) You learn how to advocate for a sustainable future

(7) You go on great excursions

(8) You learn about how the earth works, which is important, even if you don’t make a career out of it.

(9) Really interesting local case studies – wind farm, geothermal exploration, Portland Alcoa, orange bellied parrot and eastern barred bandicoots.

(10) Gives you opportunities to improve the environment for future generations