The systems approach is central to the ESS course. Modern science tends to use a reductionism approach which involves researching a very specific aspect of the subject being studied, while the systems approach looks more broadly at subject as a whole.
Which is better, reductionism or the systems approach, is a matter of opinion.
Lessons
| 1 | The systems approach Video | ||||||
| 2 | Systems diagrams | ||||||
| 3 | Models | ||||||
| 4 | The Gaia hypothesis Presentation | ||||||
Practicals
- Construct and evaluate a systems diagram from given information on a system.
- Use and evaluate a simple software model (e.g. Lovelock’s Daisy World).
- Design, construct and monitor a mesocosm.
Essay Task
“Evaluate the Lotka-Volterra equations as a model for predator prey relationships.” [9 marks]
The essay should marked using the Paper 2, Section B essay markbands.
Google Docs Version
Open the link and make a copy to your own drive. The doc can easily be shared as an “Assignment” on Google Classroom.
A markbands rubric designed for Google Classroom is available here.