Earth and space sciences big ideas

The Earth and Space sciences involve the study of the dynamic interdependent nature of Earth’s systems and how it is part of a larger astronomical system. Interactions between Earth’s systems and astronomical systems can be explored over a range of time scales.

This can be broken into two core concepts:

  • Earth is part of an astronomical system; interactions between Earth and celestial bodies influence the Earth system.
  • The Earth system comprises dynamic and interdependent systems; interactions between these systems cause continuous change over a range of scales.

More information on alternative conceptions held by students can be found at Pedagogical Toolbox.

Solar system

Earth is part of a system

Earth is part of an astronomical system; interaction between Earth and celestial bodies influence the Earth system.

Wave rock

The earth system

The earth system comprises dynamic and interdependent systems; interactions between these systems cause continuous change over a range of scales.