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 on the Earth and space science conceptions page in the 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.