This course will first investigate the science of Ecology and the structure and function of ecosystems, with an emphasis on local habitats. The course will then lead into a study of the anthropogenic effects on these ecosystems and their impacts. Concepts and methodologies will be taught along with field experiences and lab research to allow students to understand
the interrelationships of the natural world. This course will also attempt to identify local and global environmental problems, both natural and man-made, evaluate the risks associated with these problems and create proactive/alternative solutions to solving and /or preventing them. This course is designed to encourage students to develop an international and global
environmental view, while using local perspectives to investigate the environment and related impacts here in Ventura County as well as California in general. This course will look at societal impacts on the earth through a scientific lens. This class focuses on the basic, but crucial parts of science, which enable us to seek the answers to many questions about nature. Students will be encouraged to use technological investigations in order to scientifically explore their environment. We will then take this fundamental study of science and apply it to the study of our world and our impact as human beings. As a trans-disciplinary subject, environmental systems and societies is designed to combine the techniques and knowledge associated with group 4 (the experimental sciences) with those associated with group 3 (individuals and societies). By choosing to study a trans-disciplinary course such as this as part of their diploma, students are able to satisfy the requirements for both groups 3 and 4 of the hexagon, thus allowing them to choose another subject from any hexagon group (including another group 3 or 4 subject). Trans-disciplinary subjects therefore introduce more flexibility into the IB Diploma Programme.