All You Need To Know Environmental Systems & Societies | IB ESS

What is IB ESS and why should you study Environmental Systems and Societies?

I am an educator with extensive experience in science and environmental studies, and IB ESS has been a key focus of my teaching career. With a degree in Biological Sciences from Oxford University and an MSc in Wildlife Biology and Conservation, I've spent many years learning about the complex interplay between human societies and environmental systems. Through my roles as an IB ESS teacher and private tutor, I've seen how much students can gain from studying this fascinating interdisciplinary subject. In this article, we'll explore what IB ESS actually is, the topics it covers, and why it's an exciting choice for students aiming to understand and tackle the environmental challenges we are currently facing.

What is IB ESS?

The question I was most commonly asked as an IB ESS teacher was: what actually is ESS? You may have heard that ESS, which stands for “Environmental Systems and Societies”, is just a combination of Biology and Geography. While this is true in some aspects, ESS actually represents a unique blend of topics ranging from science to geography, politics, economics, and even ethics. This IB subject offers students a holistic perspective on environmental issues, meaning that you will learn how human societies are deeply interconnected with natural systems, such as our climate and various ecosystems.

In my previous role as Head of Department for ESS at St Edward’s School in Oxford, I was often asked by students and their parents for a brief summary of this subject. Simply put, ESS provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental systems and the societal factors influencing them. It equips students with the tools to analyse complex environmental issues through scientific inquiry as well as a range of socio-economic lenses. At its core, ESS aims to help you have informed and personal viewpoints about environmental issues by developing your critical thinking and practical investigation skills. If you want to find out more, I recommend that you go ahead and read the IB ESS subject brief.

Why study IB Environmental Systems and Societies?

The next question students would ask me was: why should I study IB ESS? I would say that not only is Environmental Systems and Societies a really interesting subject, but that it also opens doors to many opportunities, as it has great practical applications beyond the classroom. Let me give you a few compelling reasons to consider making ESS part of your IB curriculum:

Interdisciplinary Approach

ESS breaks away from traditional subject discipline boundaries, offering a unique blend of science and social science elements. In the classroom, I found that this interdisciplinary approach enhanced my students’ critical thinking skills and prepared them to tackle real-world challenges from multiple perspectives - something that universities or future employers value highly!

Versatility in IB Subject Choices

Almost uniquely among IB subjects, ESS can fit into two different subject groups, providing students with flexibility in their course selection. Choosing ESS as your Group 3 subject allows you to select two other sciences, while choosing it in Group 4 means you can study two humanities subjects from Group 3. Whether paired with sciences or humanities, ESS complements a wide range of subjects such as Biology, Geography, Economics, and Politics.

Relevance to University and Career Pathways

ESS lays a solid foundation for further studies at university level in fields such as Biology, Geography, Anthropology, Environmental Science, and more. In addition, the skills acquired in ESS, including analytical reasoning and the ability to communicate clearly about current environmental issues, are highly valued in diverse career paths, including ecological consultancy, nature conservation, journalism and even environmental law.

IB ESS topics

The IB ESS syllabus spans a wide array of topics, reflecting the multifaceted nature of environmental studies. From ecosystem dynamics to climate change, each module covers critical aspects of our planet's environmental health. Here's a glimpse into the key areas covered:

Each of these topics offers a unique lens through which students can explore and understand the intricate connections between environmental systems and human populations, preparing them to address pressing environmental challenges with informed perspectives and innovative solutions.

IB ESS FAQs

How challenging is IB ESS compared to other IB subjects?

IB ESS offers a unique mix of scientific rigour and social science perspectives, making it intellectually stimulating yet accessible to students with diverse backgrounds and interests. I always advise students not to choose ESS just because they think it is an easy option: even as a standard level subject it provides a good level of challenge and should be chosen by students who are interested in the topics covered.

What are the assessment components for IB ESS?

The assessment in IB ESS comprises two papers: Paper 1 involves a case study analysis, while Paper 2 includes data interpretation, as well as short-answer and extended-response questions. Additionally, students undertake practical investigations as part of their Internal Assessment.

Is IB ESS considered a science or a humanities subject?

IB ESS straddles the boundaries between science and humanities, incorporating elements of both disciplines. Its interdisciplinary nature allows students to explore environmental issues from a variety of scientific, social, and ethical perspectives.

A final word from me

In conclusion, IB ESS offers a pathway for students to understand the intricate relationships between environmental systems and human societies. With its diverse curriculum, interdisciplinary approach, and relevance to real-world challenges, ESS empowers students to become informed global citizens and advocates for environmental stewardship. As an educator deeply invested in environmental education, I wholeheartedly endorse IB ESS as a challenging and stimulating learning experience that prepares students to work towards a more sustainable future!