Syllabus Edition
First teaching 2024
First exams 2026
Models (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))
Revision Note
Written by: Alistair Marjot
Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett
Models
A model is a simplified version of reality
A model is often used to represent a system
The model can then be analysed or tested to learn more about how the system works and to predict how the system might respond to change
For example, weather models are used to predict how our weather systems change over time, allowing us to create weather forecasts
Some models can be very simple, such as a child’s model car, while others can be highly complex and require the power of supercomputers, such as the computer models that are currently being used to predict how our climate will change in the future
To some extent, due to their very nature, all models involve some level of approximation or simplification, and therefore some loss of accuracy (even the very powerful and complex models)
Models have a variety of strengths and weaknesses
Strengths and Limitations of Models
Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|
Models simplify complex systems | Models can be oversimplified and inaccurate |
Models allow predictions to be made about how systems will react in response to change | Results from models depend on the quality of the data inputs going into them |
System inputs can be changed to observe effects and outputs without the need to wait for real-life events to occur | Results from models become more uncertain the further they predict into the future |
Models are easier to understand than the real system | Different models can show vastly different outputs even if they are given the same data inputs |
Results from models can be shared between scientists, engineers, and companies and communicated to the public | Results from models can be interpreted by different people in different ways |
Results from models can warn us about future environmental issues and how to avoid them or minimise their impact | Environmental systems are often incredibly complex, with many interacting factors—it is impossible to take all possible variables into account |
Examiner Tips and Tricks
A model may take many forms, including a graph, a diagram, an equation, a simulation or even words. Models are used throughout the ESS course to represent systems and processes—just remember that they are often greatly simplified compared to reality.
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