Mahtehsj

NSW Education Standards Authority
Earth and Environmental

Science
Additional sample examination questions

Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................... 3
Question List .................................................................................................. 4
Sample Questions
Module 5 Earth’s Processes ........................................................ 8
Module 6 Hazards ..................................................................... 33
Module 7 Climate Science ........................................................ 57
Module 8 Resource Management ............................................. 71
Earth and Environmental Science geological time scale............................. 84
–2–
Introduction
The first HSC examination for the new Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 syllabus
will be held in 2019.
The syllabus and related assessment materials are available on the syllabus page of the
NESA website.
The Assessment and Reporting in Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 document
provides the Earth and Environmental Science HSC examination specifications. The Earth
and Environmental Science – Sample examination materials document indicates the layout
and format of the HSC examination and provides examples of questions that may be found in
HSC examinations, with annotations.
This document, Earth and Environmental Science – Additional sample examination
questions, provides additional examples of questions that may be found in HSC examinations
for Earth and Environmental Science. The document comprises new questions, as well as
questions that have been published in the sample examination materials and some questions
that have been drawn from previous HSC examinations.
The document has been developed to assist teachers to:
• create sample HSC examination papers
• prepare revision exercises
• model question design
• consolidate understanding of the syllabus.
The sample questions are arranged by module. Examples of both objective-response
questions and short-answer questions for each of the modules, Earth’s Processes, Hazards,
Climate Science and Resource Management, are provided.
Each sample question has been mapped to show how the question relates to content,
syllabus outcomes and bands. Questions may require candidates to integrate knowledge,
understanding and skills from different content areas. Each question is mapped to the main
content area(s) being assessed but may be relevant to one or more content areas. When
a question has been mapped to multiple content areas, it has been placed under the topic
deemed to be most relevant.
Answers for the objective-response questions and marking guidelines for the short-answer
questions are also provided. The sample questions, sample answers and marking guidelines
provide teachers and students with guidance as to the types of questions that may be included
in the examination and how they may be marked. They are not meant to be prescriptive.
Note:
• In this set of sample questions, some stimulus material is used in more than one question.
This illustrates how the same content area can be examined in different ways.
• The new Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 syllabus includes content areas that
were also part of previous syllabuses. Where this occurs, teachers and students may still
refer to past HSC examination papers for examples of other types of questions that are
relevant.
• In this document, ‘Bands’ means the performance bands targeted by the question.
–3–
Question List
* denotes a multiple-choice question
Module 5 Earth’s Processes

Question Marks Content Syllabus Outcomes Bands
Mod 5 – 1* 1 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–12 2–3
Mod 5 – 4* 1 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–6, EES12–12 3–4
Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere,

Mod 5 – 5* 1 EES12–12 2–3
Atmosphere and Hydrosphere
Mod 5 – 6* 1 ESS12–4, EES12–12 3–4
Mod 5 – 7* 1 EES12–12 4–5
Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere
Mod 5 – 8* 1 EES12–4, EES12–12 4–5
Mod 5 – 9* 1 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–6, EES12–12 4–5
Mod 5 – 10* 1 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–5, EES12–12 2–3
Mod 5 – 11* 1 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–12 3–4
Mod 5 – 12* 1 Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–12 2–3
Mod 5 – 13* 1 Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy ESS12–4, EES12–12 3–4
Mod 5 – 16* 1 Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–4, EES12–12 4–5
Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere

Mod 5 – 20 4 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–6, EES12–12 2–5
Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy
Mod 5 – 21 (a) 2 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–5, EES12–12 2–4
Mod 5 – 21 (b) 3 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–5, EES12–12 3–6
Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–6, ESS12–7,

Mod 5 – 22 (a) 3 2–5
Atmosphere and Hydrosphere EES12–12
Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–6, ESS12–7,
Mod 5 – 22 (b) 3 2–5
Atmosphere and Hydrosphere EES12–12
Mod 5 – 23 4 ESS12–7, EES12–12 2–5
Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–4, EES12–5,
Mod 5 – 24 4 2–5
Atmosphere and Hydrosphere EES12–6, EES12–12
–4–
Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle
EES12–6, ESS12–7,
Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters
Mod 5 – 25 6 EES12–12, 2–6
Mod 7 Natural Processes of Variations in
ESS12–13, EES12–14
Climate
ESS12–4, ESS12–5,
Mod 5 – 26 4 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle 2–6
ESS12–6, EES12–12
EES12–2, EES12–6,
Mod 5 – 27 4 Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy 2–5
EES12–7, EES12–12
Module 6 Hazards
Mod 6 – 1* 1 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–5, EES12–13 2–3

Mod 6 – 2* 1 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–5, EES12–13 4–5
Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the
Mod 6 – 3* 1 EES12–6 , EES12–13 4–5
Biosphere
Mod 6 – 4* 1 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 2–3
Mod 6 – 5* 1 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 4–5
ESS12–5, ESS12–6,
Mod 6 – 6* 1 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters 5–6
EES12–13
Mod 6 – 7* 1 EES12–5, EES12–13 3–4
Biosphere
Mod 6 – 8* 1 EES12–6 , EES12–13 4–5
Biosphere
Mod 6 Prediction and Prevention of
Mod 6 – 9* 1 EES12–13 2–3
Natural Disasters
Mod 6 – 10* 1 EES12–13 3–4
Natural Disasters
Mod 6 – 11 (a) 2 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 2–4
Mod 6 – 11 (b) 3 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 2–4
Mod 6 – 11 (c) 4 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 2–5
Mod 6 – 12 (a) 2 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–4, EES12–13 4–5
EES12–4, EES12–5,
Mod 6 – 12 (b) 3 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–6, EES12–7, 4–6
EES12–13
Mod 6 – 13 3 EES12–7, EES12–13 2–4
Biosphere
Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the EES12–3, EES12–6,
Mod 6 – 14 9 2–6
Biosphere EES12–13
Mod 6 – 15 4 EES12–5, EES12–13 2–5
Biosphere
Mod 6 – 16 3 EES12–13 2–4
Natural Disasters
Mod 6 Prediction and Prevention of EES12–6, EES12–7,
Mod 6 – 17 3 2–4
Natural Disasters EES12–13
–5–
Mod 6 – 18 3 EES12–13 2–4
Natural Disasters
Mod 6 – 19 3 EES12–13 2–4
Natural Disasters
Mod 6 Hazards EES12–4, EES12–5,
Mod 6 – 20 7 Mod 7 Climate Science EES12–7, EES12–13, 2–6
Mod 8 Resource Management EES12–14, EES12–15
Module 7 Climate Science

Mod 7 Natural Processes of Variations in

Mod 7 – 1* 1 EES12–5, EES12–14 5–6
Climate
Mod 7 – 2* 1 Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation EES12–4, EES12–14 3–4
Mod 7 – 3* 1 Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation ESS12–5, EES12–14 5–6
Mod 7 Influences of Human Activities on
Mod 7 – 4* 1 EES12–14 3–4
Changes to Climate
Mod 7 Influences of Human Activities on
Mod 7 – 5* 1 EES12–14 3–4
Changes to Climate
Mod 7 Mitigation and Adaptation
Mod 7 – 6* 1 EES12–14 2–3
Strategies
Mod 7 Mitigation and Adaptation
Mod 7 – 7* 1 EES12–14 3–4
Strategies
Mod 7 – 8 (a) 3 Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation ESS12–6, EES12–14 2–4
ESS12–4, EES12–5
Mod 7 – 8 (b) 5 Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation 2–6
EES12–6, EES12–14
EES12–5, EES12–6,
Mod 7 – 9 4 Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation 2–6
EES12–14
EES12–5, ESS12–6,
Mod 7 – 10 3 Mod 7 Evidence of Climate Variation 3–5
ESS12–7, EES12–14
Mod 7 – 11 3 Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation EES12–14 4–6
Mod 7 Influence of Human Activities on
Mod 7 – 12 (a) 2 EES12–6, EES12–14 2–4
Changes to Climate
Mod 7 Mitigation and Adaptation ESS12–4, EES12–5,
Mod 7 – 12 (b) 7 2–6
Strategies EES12–6, EES12–14
Module 8 Resource Management

Mod 8 – 1* 1 Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–6, EES12–15 4–5

Mod 8 – 2* 1 Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources ESS12–5, EES12–15 4–5
Mod 8 – 3* 1 Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–15 4–5
Mod 8 – 4* 1 Mod 8 Waste Management EES12–15 2–3
Mod 8 – 5* 1 Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–15 2–3
–6–
Mod 8 – 6* 1 Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–15 3–4
Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources
Mod 8 – 7 (a) 3 EES12–15 2–4
Mod 8 Sustainability
Mod 8 – 7 (b) 4 Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–15 2–5
Mod 8 – 8 (a) 1 Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–5, EES12–15 3–4
Mod 8 – 8 (b) 3 Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–6, EES12–15 3–5
EES12–2, EES12–4,
Mod 8 – 9 (a) 2 Mod 8 Waste Management 2–4
EES12–15
Mod 8 – 9 (b) 2 Mod 8 Waste Management EES12–2, EES12–15 2–4
Mod 8 Waste Management EES12–5, EES12–6,
Mod 8 – 9 (c) 2 3–5
Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–7, EES12–15
EES12–5, EES12–7,
Mod 8 – 10 7 Mod 8 Sustainability 2–6
EES12–15
–7–
Module 5 Earth’s Processes
Mod 5 – Question 1
Which of the following lists the areas in which Cambrian metazoans benefited from the
evolution of hard body parts?
A. Defence, predation and protection

B. Reproduction, defence and predation
C. Protection, defence and reproduction
D. Predation, protection and reproduction
Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–12 2–3 A
Harold Urey and Stanley Miller conducted experiments on prebiotic Earth in 1953 using
special equipment.
Which were the most relevant products formed?
A. Peptides
B. Nucleotides
C. Amino acids
D. Simple sugars

Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–12 2–3 C
–8–
Which of the following best describes cyanobacteria?
A. Simple photosynthetic organisms

B. Simple chemosynthetic organisms
C. Complex photosynthetic organisms
D. Complex chemosynthetic organisms

Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–12 3–4 A
Terrestrial plants, amphibians and reptiles all evolved from ancestors that lived in an aquatic
environment.
Which adaptation did all three groups need in order to live successfully in a terrestrial
environment?
A. A skeletal system for support
B. An egg with a shell to prevent drying out
C. A system of cellular respiration that used oxygen
D. An external covering to reduce the loss of water from tissues

Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–6, EES12–12 3–4 D
Which process increased the level of oxygen in Earth’s early atmosphere?
A. Volcanic eruptions
B. Lightning striking Earth
C. Decaying primitive plants and animals
D. Photosynthesis in organisms living in water

Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–12 2–3 D
–9–
The graph shows an estimate of the percentage of oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere over time.
Stage Stage Stage Stage

1 2 3 4
30
25
% Oxygen
20
15
10
5
0
4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0
Million years before present (Ma BP)
During which stage were most of the Australian banded iron formations produced?
A. Stage 1
B. Stage 2
C. Stage 3
D. Stage 4

Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–4, EES12–12 3–4 B
Which of the following is an effect of the evolution of photosynthesising bacteria?
A. The hydrosphere became more acidified.

B. Banded iron formations were formed in the geosphere.
C. The gaseous composition of the hydrosphere and atmosphere changed due to the presence
of oxygen gas but the geosphere was unaffected.
D. The atmosphere’s gaseous composition changed as carbon dioxide decreased and oxygen
increased but the hydrosphere and geosphere were unaffected.

Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–12 4–5 B
– 10 –
The flow chart shows a sequence of events that occurred during Earth’s history.
Early anoxic atmosphere
Anaerobic prokaryotes
The ozone layer formed
Which of the following correctly matches the events in the table with the letters W, X, Y and Z
in the flow chart?
Banded iron Cyanobacteria Atmospheric oxygen Oceanic oxygen

formations evolved concentration concentration
deposited increased increased
A. W Z Y X
B. X Y Z W
C. Y W Z X
D. X W Y Z

Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–4, EES12–12 4–5 C
– 11 –
To develop a model to represent the plate tectonic supercycle, it would be necessary to include
A. an interactive 3D model of Earth’s crust.

B. the supercontinents Pangea, Laurasia and Gondwana.
C. a visual representation that shows a sequence of geological processes.
D. the six different supercycles that have occurred during Earth’s history.

Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–6, EES12–12 4–5 C
– 12 –
The diagram shows a model of the plate tectonic supercycle.
Stage 3
Stage 4
Stage 2
Stage 5
Stage 1
KEY Continental crust Ocean crust
Which stage of the model best represents the formation of a rift valley?
A. Stage 2
B. Stage 3
C. Stage 4
D. Stage 5

Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–5, EES12–12 2–3 A
– 13 –
Which of the following is best explained by the plate tectonic supercycle?
A. Cyclical patterns of volcanic eruptions

B. Break-up and formation of supercontinents
C. Cycling of oceanic crust back into Earth’s mantle
D. Mass extinctions at the end of geological time periods

Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–12 3–4 B
Which technique is most useful in absolute dating of rock bodies?
A. Cross-cutting
B. Fossils
C. Inclusions
D. Radiometric

Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–12 2–3 D
– 14 –
1
Carbon-14 has a half-life of 5730 years. Charcoal removed from beneath a lava flow has the
8
amount of carbon-14 as a living tree.
How old is the lava flow?
A. 2865 years
B. 11 460 years
C. 17 190 years
D. 45 840 years

Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–4, EES12–12 3–4 C
The diagram shows veins in an outcrop of rock.
O
M
What is the correct order of formation, from oldest to youngest?
A. N, M, O, L
B. N, O, M, L
C. L, O, M, N
D. L, M, N, O

Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–5, EES12–12 3–4 A
– 15 –
The table lists some isotopes and their half-lives.
Isotope Half-life (years)

Carbon-14 5730
Iodine-129 15.7 million
Uranium-235 704 million
Rubidium-87 50 billion
Which isotope is the best choice for dating a rock that was formed in the Cambrian period?
A. Carbon-14
B. Iodine-129
C. Uranium-235
D. Rubidium-87

Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–4, EES12–12 5–6 C
– 16 –
The diagram shows a stratigraphic column.
Layer
KEY
1 Granite
2 Basalt
3 Conglomerate
4 Sandstone
5 Limestone
6 Gneiss
8
9
10
Which row in the table correctly identifies a dating technique for determining the ages of both
Layer 4 and Layer 9 in this stratigraphic column?
Layer 4 Layer 9
A. Absolute dating of layers Relative dating with fossils
above and below
B. Absolute dating of layers Absolute dating of layers
above and below above and below
C. Relative dating with fossils Relative dating with fossils
D. Relative dating with fossils Absolute dating of layers
above and below

Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–4, EES12–12 4–5 D
– 17 –
The images show four different types of fossilisation.
Image 1 Image 2
Image 3 Image 4
Which row of the table matches each fossil image with its correct type of fossilisation?
Image 1 Image 2 Image 3 Image 4

A. Original hard parts Internal mould Cast Original organism
B. Cast Internal mould Original organism Original hard parts
C. Original hard parts Cast Internal mould Original organism
D. Cast Original hard parts Original organism Internal mould

– 18 –
Based on stable isotopic evidence, which of the following can be inferred to have existed
approximately 3.8 × 109 years ago?
A. Ediacaran fauna
B. Photosynthetic algae
C. Prokaryotic cyanobacteria
D. Bacteria-like cells lacking nuclei

Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–6, EES12–12 5–6 D
– 19 –
A stratigraphic sequence is shown.
60 Ma BP
KNOWN Key
AGES
Dolerite
Basalt
Tuff
300 Ma BP
Shale
Devonian Sandstone
Siltstone
Cambrian
350 Ma BP
What is the best estimate of the age of a fossil found in the sandstone?
A. Permian
B. Carboniferous
C. Older than 300 Ma BP
D. Younger than 60 Ma BP

– 20 –
Mod 5 – Question 20 (4 marks)
Using examples, explain why models are useful for studying the development of 4
Earth.
Mapping grid
Content Syllabus outcomes Bands
Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–6, EES12–12 2–5
Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle
Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy
Marking guidelines
Criteria Marks
• Explains why models are useful for studying the development of Earth
4
using relevant examples
• Identifies the main features of a model
3
• Outlines examples which use models to study the development of Earth
• Identifies the main features of a model
OR
2
• Outlines an example which uses a model to study the development of
Earth
• Identifies a feature of a model 1
Sample answer:
A model is a representation of an idea, an object, a process or a system. It can be used
to describe and explain phenomena that cannot be experienced directly. For example,
3D images based on limited evidence such as a few fossil bones, can be constructed
to study extinct organisms. Since the features are interpreted, the model gives a better
understanding of extinct organisms.
Models may also be constructed to study the plate tectonic supercycle. Using the models,
simulations may be designed to explain key concepts and processes, and explore the effect
of the plate tectonic supercycle on large-scale phenomena.
– 21 –
(a) Explain the significance of the Miller-Urey experiment. 2
(b) What is panspermia? Support your answer with an example. 3
Mapping grid (a):

Marking guidelines (a):

Criteria Marks
• Explains the significance of the experiment 2
• Provides some relevant information 1
Sample answer:
It showed that complex molecules, including amino acids, could have been generated
from simple molecules in the environment that existed on early Earth. Amino acids are the
building blocks of proteins, which in turn are necessary for life on Earth.
Mapping grid (b):

Marking guidelines (b):

Criteria Marks
• Identifies the essential features of the idea of panspermia
3
• Uses a relevant example to support the idea of panspermia
• Outlines the idea of panspermia
2
• Provides a relevant example
• Shows a basic understanding of the idea of panspermia 1
Sample answer:
The idea of panspermia is that life on Earth originated from microorganisms or chemical
precursors of life present in outer space. Life was initiated when a suitable environment was
reached. The fact that amino acids have been found on meteorites suggests that amino
acids, which are necessary for life on Earth, could have been brought to early Earth. It also
suggests that amino acids could have been formed in a variety of conditions, and not just
those present on Earth.
– 22 –
Earth’s geosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere were changed as a result of the

evolution of life on Earth.
(a) Draw a labelled diagram to show the atmospheric composition of early Earth 3
and the atmospheric composition after evolution of the biosphere.
Early Earth After evolution of the biosphere
(b) Explain changes that occurred in the geosphere and hydrosphere as a result of 3
the evolution of the biosphere.
Mapping grid (a):

Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, Atmosphere EES12–6, EES12–7, 2–5
and Hydrosphere EES12–12

Criteria Marks
• Draws a labelled diagram showing the atmospheric composition of early
3
Earth and the atmospheric composition after evolution of the biosphere
• Draws a labelled diagram showing the atmospheric composition of early
Earth
OR
• Draws a labelled diagram showing the atmospheric composition after 2
evolution of the biosphere
OR
• Draws a labelled diagram showing change in level of one gas
Question 22 continues on page 24
– 23 –
Question 22 (continued)
Sample answer (a):
Early Earth After evolution of the biosphere
KEY
Oxygen
Carbon dioxide
Nitrogen
Mapping grid (b):

and Hydrosphere EES12–12

Criteria Marks
• Explains changes that occurred in the geosphere and hydrosphere as a
3
result of the evolution of the biosphere
• Outlines changes in the geosphere and hydrosphere
OR 2
• Explains a change in the geosphere or hydrosphere
Sample answer (b):

The evolution of photosynthetic organisms led to more oxygen being dissolved in the
hydrosphere and less carbon dioxide. This occurs because carbon dioxide is a reactant and
oxygen a product of photosynthesis.
The increase in dissolved oxygen allowed oxygen to react with dissolved iron forming
insoluble iron oxide. The iron oxide settled on the ocean floor to form banded iron formations
in the geosphere.
End of Question 22
– 24 –
What do banded iron formations reveal about the evolution of the atmosphere? 4
Mapping grid:
Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, Atmosphere EES12–7, EES12–12 2–5
and Hydrosphere
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Relates the formation of banded iron to the change in concentration of
4
oxygen in the atmosphere
• Outlines the formation of banded iron
3
• Links banded iron to the concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere
• Outlines the formation of banded iron using oxygen 2
Sample answer:
Banded iron gives us information about how oxygen concentrations in the atmosphere came
about:
• free oxygen was rare or absent in pre-banded iron formation Earth

• oxygen combined with abundant iron ions in oceans to form the banded iron formations
• formation of abundant banded iron stopped once the majority of free iron ions in the
ocean were used up.
This resulted in the build-up of oxygen in the water, which then escaped into the
atmosphere.
– 25 –
The graph shows an estimate of the percentage of oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere over 4
time.
Stage Stage Stage Stage

1 2 3 4
30
25
% Oxygen
20
15
10
5
0
4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0
Based on the diagram provided, during which stage were most Australian banded iron
formations produced? Justify your answer.
Mapping grid:
and Hydrosphere EES12–6, EES12–12
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Identifies the correct stage
• Shows knowledge of atmospheric oxygen and banded iron formations
4
• Relates the presence of oxygen to banded iron formations
• Refers to the diagram
• Identifies the correct stage
• Shows some knowledge of atmospheric oxygen and banded iron
3
formations
• Refers to the diagram
• Shows some knowledge of atmospheric oxygen and/or banded iron 2
– 26 –
Sample answer:
Stage 2
Oxygen started to accumulate in the atmosphere in Stage 2. Before this, cyanobacteria

in the oceans were producing oxygen but most of it was used in chemical reactions, eg
combining with iron salts dissolved in the water, to form insoluble iron oxides. These
insoluble salts were laid down and formed the banded iron formations.
Once the available iron salts had reacted to form sediments, the oxygen that the
cyanobacteria produced remained dissolved in the oceans until the concentration of oxygen
became too great and the excess oxygen was released into the atmosphere.
The first occurrence of oxygen in the atmosphere indicates the end of the deposition of the
banded iron formations.
End of Question 24
– 27 –
Complete the table to explain how the plate tectonic supercycle contributes to each of 6
the large-scale phenomena.
How plate tectonic supercycle contributes to

Large-scale phenomenon
the phenomenon
Pattern of earthquakes and

volcanic activity on Earth
Climate change
Evolution of life on Earth
– 28 –
Mapping grid:
Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–6, EES12–7, 2–6
Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–12, EES12–13,
Mod 7 Natural Processes of Variations in Climate EES12–14
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Explains how the supercycle contributes to all THREE phenomena 6
• Explains how the supercycle contributes to TWO phenomena
5
• Outlines how the supercycle contributes to the other phenomenon
• Explains how the supercycle contributes to TWO phenomena 4
• Explains how the supercycle contributes to a phenomenon
3
• Outlines how the supercycle contributes to another phenomenon
• Explains how the supercycle contributes to a phenomenon
OR 2
• Links the supercycle to two phenomena
Sample answer:
How plate tectonic supercycle contributes to

Large-scale phenomenon
the phenomenon
• Convergent plates collide forming subduction zones in

Pattern of earthquakes and the ocean which result in explosive volcanoes
volcanic activity on Earth • Collision zones between continental plates result in
earthquakes along fault lines
• Changes to the position of continents result in changes

to the pathway of ocean currents and so changes heat
distribution to the atmosphere; break-up results in global
warming, and convergence causes global cooling
Climate change
• Rifting of continents may release more CO2 into the
atmosphere resulting in global warming
• When supercontinents form, ice ages follow due to

global cooling, causing extinction events
Evolution of life on Earth • Extensive volcanic activity during plate collision releases
greenhouse gases and aerosols resulting in extinction
events followed by rapid evolution
End of Question 25
– 29 –
‘The plate tectonic supercycle may have driven the evolution of life on Earth.’ 4
Using your scientific understanding, assess the statement above.
Mapping grid:
Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle ESS12–4, ESS12–5, 2–6
ESS12–6, EES12–12
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Makes an informed judgement about the role of the plate tectonic
supercycle in the evolution of life 4
• Supports argument with sound scientific understanding
• Makes a judgement about the role of the plate tectonic supercycle in the
evolution of life 3
• Supports argument with sound scientific understanding
• Outlines the plate tectonic supercycle
OR 2
• Outlines evolution of life on Earth
Sample answer:
Plate movements are responsible for hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor. Near a plate
boundary, seawater can seep into cracks, where magma heats it to hundreds of degrees,
ejecting the hot water back into the ocean. Hydrothermal vents are home to diverse
ecosystems, and some scientists have suggested that similar vents gave rise to the first life
on Earth.
The supercycle creates volcanoes and hot springs that release gases into the atmosphere,
causing a natural greenhouse effect. Earth’s stable temperature allows liquid water to exist
and creates favourable conditions for life.
The plate tectonic supercycle involves continual creations and destruction of Earth’s crust.
Uplift, erosion and volcanism refresh soil, allowing nutrient cycling to occur. Without large
scale cycles, life would become extinct.
– 30 –
The photograph shows a coal seam with a fossiliferous marine sandstone 30 cm below 4
the coal and a zircon-bearing tuff layer immediately above the top layer.
coal seam
Use a flow chart to show how the age of the coal seam can be determined. You may
assume that the outcrop is accessible and appropriate technologies are available for
the investigation.
Mapping grid:
Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–2, EES12–6, 2–5
EES12–7, EES12–12
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Uses a logical and comprehensive flow chart to show the steps for dating
4
the coal seam
• Provides a flow chart that shows the main steps for dating the coal seam 3
• Identifies some steps for dating the coal seam 2
– 31 –
Sample answer:
Examine marine
Collect a sample Collect a sample
sandstone for
of coal of tuff
fossils
Send sample to Send sample to Collect sample of

lab for pollen lab for absolute marine sandstone
analysis dating of zircons with fossils
Gives an age Date fossils –

Gives the age
younger than Gives an age older
of the coal sample
coal sample than coal sample
Compare the ages

and determine age
of the coal seam
End of Question 27
– 32 –
Module 6 Hazards
The map shows the locations of four earthquakes L, M, N and O that occurred late in 2012.
M N
O L
Which earthquake was NOT on a plate boundary?

A. L
B. M
C. N
D. O

Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–5, EES12–13 2–3 D
– 33 –
The map shows the location of four volcanic regions W, X, Y and Z.
At which location would andesitic lava be found?

A. W
B. X
C. Y
D. Z

Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–5, EES12–13 4–5 B
– 34 –
Brightly coloured sunrises and sunsets were seen for several years after the 1991 eruption of
Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines.
The cause of this phenomenon was
A. the destruction of the ozone layer by the eruption.

B. the release of radioactive particles into the atmosphere.
C. the large amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.
D. the sulfur dioxide released formed reflective particles in the stratosphere.

Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the EES12–6, EES12–13 4–5 D
Biosphere
Where is a deep focus earthquake most likely to occur on the Australian–Indian Plate?
A. At the centre of the Sydney Basin
B. At the continental margin east of New South Wales
C. At the subduction zone along the northern plate boundary
D. At the mid-oceanic ridge along the southern plate boundary

Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 2–3 C
– 35 –
Which of the following events is most likely to cause a tsunami?
A. A volcanic eruption in Hawaii producing a lava flow

B. An explosive volcanic eruption causing an earthquake in central Australia
C. An outpouring of magma at the southern edge of the Australian–Indian Plate boundary
D. A shallow focus earthquake along the northern edge of the Australian–Indian Plate
boundary

Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 4–5 D
Which diagram correctly represents the distribution and depth of earthquake foci at the
subduction zone (dash line)?
Oceanic Continental Oceanic Continental Oceanic Continental Oceanic Continental

plate plate plate plate plate plate plate plate
A B C D
Depth of earthquake focus
0–100 km 101–300 km 301–500 km 501+ km

Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–5, EES12–6, 5–6 A
EES12–13
– 36 –
The synoptic chart shows a weather system affecting NSW.
28
10
1000
6
99
972
988
980
© Bureau of Meteorology
Which natural disaster would this weather system be most likely to cause?
A. Drought
B. Inland flooding
C. Coastal bushfires
D. Severe coastal storms

Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the EES12–5, EES12–13 3–4 D
Biosphere
– 37 –
Which product of a large Plinian volcanic eruption, such as the Mt Pinatubo eruption in 1991,
would have a cooling effect on global climate for the longest period of time?
A. Ash clouds that reached the stratosphere

B. Dacitic lava on the slopes of the volcano
C. Sulfur dioxide that reached up to 12 kilometres
D. Water vapour that absorbed heat from the atmosphere

Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the EES12–6, EES12–13 4–5 C
Biosphere
Which statement correctly describes earthquake building codes?
A. They are enforced in all countries with seismic risk.

B. They are the same for single-level and high-rise buildings.
C. They reduce the frequency of large magnitude earthquakes.
D. They statistically reduce the damage to buildings and harm to people.

Mod 6 Prediction and Prevention of EES12–13 2–3 D
Natural Disasters
– 38 –
The impact of earthquakes that can cause natural disasters has resulted in the development of
technologies such as ground movement detectors and tsunami wave detectors.
Which of the following is true about these technologies?
A. They prevent natural disasters.

B. They require scientists to operate them from disaster zones.
C. They prevent natural disasters if linked to good communication systems.
D. They require support systems such as building codes and education in areas of high risk.

Mod 6 Prediction and Prevention of EES12–13 3–4 D
Natural Disasters
– 39 –
Answer parts (a)–(c) in relation to ONE specific natural disaster associated with
tectonic activity.
Name of specific natural disaster ..........................................................................
(a) Outline TWO features of the named natural disaster associated with tectonic 2
activity.
(b) Explain the tectonic movement or process that resulted in this disaster. 3
(c) Justify TWO possible ways of minimising the effects of this type of natural 4
disaster in the future.
Mapping grid (a):

Module 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–13 2–4

Criteria Marks
• Outlines TWO features of the named natural disaster associated with
2
tectonic activity
• Outlines ONE feature of the named natural disaster associated with
tectonic activity
OR 1
• Identifies TWO features of a natural disaster associated with tectonic
activity
Sample answer:
Japanese Earthquake 2011 – This disaster resulted in ground motion that caused some
damage to the built environment but the largest impact of the resulting tsunami was the
devastation of many coastal communities with wide scale flooding and destruction of the
environment.
Mapping grid (b):

– 40 –

Criteria Marks
• Outlines the cause of the tectonic movement or process resulting in the
named disaster 3
• Links the disaster to the tectonic movement or process
• Outlines the cause of the tectonic movement or process resulting in this
2
disaster
Sample answer:
Japanese Earthquake 2011 – Japan makes up a volcanic island arc that characterises
a convergent ocean–ocean plate boundary. The earthquake resulted from the release of
tensional forces that had built up over time, resulting in both ground motion and tsunamis.
Mapping grid (c):

Marking guidelines (c):

Criteria Marks
• Describes TWO possible ways to minimise the effects of this type of
natural disaster 4
• Provides evidence to support identified strategies
• Outlines TWO possible ways to minimise the effects of this type of
natural disaster 3
• Provides evidence to support identified strategies
• Describes ONE possible way to minimise the effects of this type of
natural disaster
• Provides evidence to support the identified strategy
2
OR
• Outlines TWO possible ways to minimise the effects of this type of
natural disaster
Sample answer:
Japanese Earthquake 2011 –
1. Many towns already had protective walls but in some cases, 10 m walls proved to be
ineffective. Bigger walls would better protect the environment, infrastructure and save
lives.
2. Rezone low lying coastal areas and move urban areas to higher ground. This would
require massive relocation of infrastructure but more human lives would be saved.
End of Question 11
– 41 –
The table gives information on the depth and location of five earthquakes near the
Tonga Trench in the south-west Pacific Ocean.
Focus depth (km) Longitude (°W)

270 176.2
590 178.8
350 177.0
650 179.2
460 177.8
(a) The positions of five additional earthquakes have been plotted on the graph. 2
Complete the graph by plotting the positions of the earthquakes given in the
table.
Longitude (°W) Tonga Trench

180 179 178 177 176 175 174 173 172 171 170
0 Sea floor
X X
100
X
X
200
Focus depth (km)
X
300
400
500
600
700
– 42 –
(b) Using the information from part (a), construct a detailed labelled cross-section 3
to illustrate the tectonic process occurring at the Tonga Trench.
Longitude (°W)
180 170
0
Focus depth (km)
700
Mapping grid (a):

Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–4, EES12–13 4–5

Criteria Marks
• Correctly plots all points on the graph 2
• Plots some points on the graph 1
– 43 –
Sample answer:
Longitude (°W) Tonga Trench

180 179 178 177 176 175 174 173 172 171 170
0 Sea floor
X X
100
X
X
200
Focus depth (km)
X X
300
X
400
X
500
X
600
X
700
Mapping grid (b):

Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–4, EES12–5, 4–6
EES12–6, EES12–7,
EES12–13

Criteria Marks
• Draws a complete diagram
3
• Correctly labels the diagram
• Draws a diagram
2
• Gives some labels
– 44 –
Sample answer:
Longitude (°W)
180 Tonga Trench 170
0 Sea floor
Australian Plate Pacific Plate
KEY
Focus depth (km)
Direction
of motion
e
on
z
ff
Sea level
nio
Be
Subducted plate
700
End of Question 12
– 45 –
Complete the following table to show the cause and physical impact of each climatic 3
phenomenon in Australia.
Climatic Cause of phenomenon Physical impact on

phenomenon Australian ecosystems
East coast low
Drought
Bushfire
Mapping grid:
Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the EES12–7, EES12–13 2–4
Biosphere
– 46 –
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Correctly completes the table to show causes and physical impacts 3
• Provides some causes and/or physical impacts 2
Sample answer:
Climatic Cause of phenomenon Physical impact on

phenomenon Australian ecosystems
East coast Low-pressure trough intensifies Large waves erode beaches on the
low due to favourable upper east coast of Australia
atmospheric condition
Drought A long period of below-average Rivers dry out, resulting in non-
rainfall typical migration of waterbirds
Bushfire Lightning strike ignites dry Loss of habitat for native fauna
vegetation such as koalas
End of Question 13
– 47 –
Answer this question with reference to the case study that you carried out to investigate 9
one volcanic eruption that had a significant effect on the biosphere and atmosphere.
Name of volcanic eruption: .....................................................................................
Contrast the short-term impact and longer-term impact of the volcanic eruption on
both the biosphere and atmosphere.
Mapping grid:
Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the EES12–3, EES12–6, 2–6
Biosphere EES12–13
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Shows a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of both the short-
term impact and longer-term impact on the biosphere and atmosphere
9
• Clearly shows how the short-term impact and longer-term impact are
different
• Shows a sound knowledge and understanding of both the short-term
impact and longer-term impact on the biosphere and/or atmosphere
7–8
• Provides some indication of how the short-term impact and longer-term
impact are different
• Outlines some short-term impact and some longer-term impact of the
5–6
volcanic eruption on the biosphere and/or atmosphere
• Outlines some short-term and/or longer-term impact of the volcanic
3–4
eruption on the biosphere and/or atmosphere
• Provides some relevant information about the volcanic eruption 1–2
– 48 –
Sample answer:
Name of volcanic eruption: Mount St Helens
The short-term impact of the eruption was very destructive. The eruption released millions
of tonnes of ash and other materials into the atmosphere. The flows of superheated gas and
rock debris killed an enormous number of living things in a huge area around the volcano.
57 people died (mainly of asphyxiation), hundreds of square kilometres of forest were
destroyed, thousands of large game animals and millions of fish, birds and insects were
killed within the first few hours of the eruption.
The initial landslide caused the north side of the volcano to collapse. As soon as this
collapse happened the release of pressure over the magma chamber resulted in a plume of
ash rising nearly 20 km into the sky. This plume of ash travelled throughout the immediate
area and resulted in complete darkness up to 250 km away from the volcano.
The ash and fine particles remained suspended in the atmosphere and eventually rained
down on surviving trees. The ash settled on leaves and reflected much of the light, which
reduced the amount of photosynthesis, often resulting in trees and smaller plants dying
months after the eruption.
The increased amount of volcanic ash in the atmosphere also reduced light absorption and
atmospheric temperatures for several months.
In contrast, the longer-term impact was far more positive. The deposition of vast areas of
volcanic ash, while initially blocking rivers, causing flooding and destruction of crops and
livestock, has resulted in an increase in the fertility of the soil.
Many animal and plant species have been able to recolonise areas that were destroyed.
Since they have not had their usual predators, they have repopulated, are healthy and are
reproducing. For example, lupins, which can grow in nitrogen-low soils, have been a very
successful recoloniser.
A number of smaller animals – particularly those that burrow – survived the eruption. They
have also flourished due to the lack of larger predators.
The rock debris and plumes of ash that initially caused much of the devastation have
actually enabled the recovery of the ecosystem, and there is no significant longer-term
impact on the atmosphere.
End of Question 14
– 49 –
Outline how human activities contribute to and how they could reduce the effects of 4
TWO types of natural disaster.
Mapping grid:
Mod 6 Impact of Natural Disasters on the EES12–5, EES12–13 2–5
Biosphere
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Identifies TWO types of disaster
• Outlines how humans contribute to the effects of each disaster 4
• Outlines how humans could reduce the effects of each disaster
• Outlines how humans contribute to the effect of ONE disaster
OR 3
• Identities TWO types of disaster
• Outlines how humans contribute to the effects of each disaster
• Outlines how humans could reduce the effect of ONE disaster
• Outlines how humans contribute to the effects of ONE disaster
• Outlines how humans could reduce the effects of ONE disaster
OR
2
• Outlines how humans contribute to the effects of each disaster
OR
Sample answer:
The effects of bushfires can include the loss of property, life and habitats. Human activities
that can decrease the effects are back burning and clearing of scrub. The likelihood of
bushfires occurring and affecting people and habitats can increase when people throw
cigarette butts into bushy areas or light campfires during hot, dry, windy weather.
Floods can also affect property, life and habitats. Human activities can increase the effects
of flooding if dams are not managed correctly (eg if the spillway is not opened) or if houses
are built on floodplains or low-lying areas. Humans can decrease the effects of flooding by
building levees around the banks of rivers.
– 50 –
Identify ONE technology that can be used to predict earthquakes, and explain how it 3
works.
Mapping grid:
Mod 6 Prediction and Prevention of Natural EES12–13 2–4
Disasters
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Identifies a relevant technology
3
• Relates the technology to the prediction of earthquakes
• Outlines how a relevant technology works 2
Sample answer:
A wire creep meter can be used to predict earthquakes. The length of a wire across a fault
is measured as movement across the fault causes it to stretch. The more the wire stretches,
the more strain is occurring within the rocks and the more likely an earthquake will occur.
– 51 –
Explain how TWO technologies predict and prevent damage due to weather events. 3
Mapping grid:
Mod 6 Prediction and Prevention of Natural EES12–6, EES12–7, 2–4
Disasters EES12–13
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Explains how TWO technologies predict and prevent weather damage 3
• Outlines TWO technologies that predict and prevent weather damage
OR
2
• Identifies TWO relevant technologies and explains how ONE technology
predicts and prevents weather damage
Sample answer:
Satellites can be used to take infrared images of clouds over the Earth’s surface. These
images can be used to monitor and track cyclones. People can be given several days
warning about the impending cyclone and prepare for it. Another piece of technology is
LIDAR, where laser light is used to detect the position of cloud cover and whether it will
bring rain, hail or snow. This can be used to give people time to get inside, and to put cars
under cover in the case of hail.
– 52 –
Describe ONE technology that can be used to minimise the effect of volcanic 3
eruptions.
Mapping grid:
Disasters
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Describes ONE relevant technology 3
• Outlines ONE relevant technology 2
Sample answer:
Seismic monitoring indicates when magma is moving through a volcano. Distinctive patterns
of seismic activity indicate that an eruption is imminent. The technology could allow people
to be evacuated before an eruption and allow aircraft movements to be changed to minimise
damage from ash clouds.
– 53 –
How could mobile phones and good network coverage play a role in minimising the 3
effects of earthquakes?
Mapping grid:
Disasters
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Shows how mobile phones and network coverage could play a role in
3
minimising earthquake effects
• Outlines how mobile phones and/or network coverage could minimise
2
earthquake effects
Sample answer:
Most people have individual mobile phones; these phones can be used as an advance
warning system. If a mass SMS is sent to people who are affected by the earthquake,
people can be better prepared, go to shelters or evacuate if needed so there would be fewer
injuries and deaths. This can only work if there is good network coverage so that everyone
is warned in time.
– 54 –
Analyse the effects of BOTH natural processes and anthropogenic activities on the 7
Australian environment.
Mapping grid:
Mod 6 Hazards EES12–4, EES12–5, 2–6
EES12–7, EES12–13,
Mod 7 Climate Science
EES12–14, EES12–15
Mod 8 Resource Management
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Shows a thorough knowledge and understanding of both natural
processes and anthropogenic activities in Australia
• Relates these processes and activities to their supposed effects on the 7
Australian environment
• Draws out and relates implications of these effects
• Shows a sound knowledge and understanding of both natural processes
and anthropogenic activities in Australia
6
• Relates these processes and activities to their supposed effects on the
Australian environment
• Shows some knowledge and/or understanding of natural processes
and/or anthropogenic activities in Australia
4–5
• Links some of these processes and/or activities to their supposed effects
on the Australian environment
• Outlines some features of natural processes and/or anthropogenic
2–3
activities
– 55 –
Sample answer:
The Australian environment is the product of both anthropogenic activities and natural
processes.
The impacts of natural processes can be either negative or positive. For example, the
earthquake that occurred in Newcastle in 1989 caused damage to infrastructure despite
being short lived. Bushfires destroy native vegetation and floods remove soil – all negative.
On the other hand, regeneration after bushfires allows younger and healthier plants to grow
and deposition of sediment on flood plains increases fertility – both positive effects.
Many anthropogenic activities have, in the main, a negative impact on the environment.
Overgrazing, poor land management practices and deforestation have immediate effects on
the environment. There is a loss of habitat for native fauna and flora, which rapidly decrease
in numbers and can become extinct. In addition, these activities have promoted erosion,
increased salinity and higher sediment input to the oceans with serious negative impacts
on features such as the Great Barrier Reef. One of the greatest negative impacts on the
environment has been the combustion of fossil fuels. According to some scientific thinking,
this has produced greenhouse gases that may have resulted in global climate change,
which has flow-on effects such as acidification of the oceans and more extreme weather
conditions. These may have far-reaching impacts on the biotic and abiotic features of the
environment. The negative impacts of anthropogenic activities on the environment may
affect our future unless different strategies are introduced.
End of Question 20
– 56 –
Module 7 Climate Science
The graph shows the short-term and long-term averages of the ᵹ18O isotope over time.
–3
౼18O (parts per thousand)

–2 KEY
–1 Short-term
0 average
1 Long-term
average
2
3
500 400 300 200 100 0
Based on the graph, which of the following statements is correct?
A. The next glacial period to occur will be 100 million years from now.
B. The most recent interglacial period peaked during the Jurassic period.
C. The next glacial period to occur will not be as severe as previous glacial periods.
D. The earliest glacial period shown occurred during the late Silurian–early Ordovician
periods.

Mod 7 Natural Processes of Variations in EES12–5, EES12–14 5–6 D
Climate
– 57 –
Which year of the tree growth, A, B, C or D, had the highest rainfall?
A. A
B. B
C. C
D. D

Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation EES12–4, EES12–14 3–4 B
– 58 –
The graphs show information about CO2.
8.30
Atmospheric CO2 level (ppm)
400
pH
8.15
300 8.00
1985 2014 1985 2014
(4.9 billion) (7.3 billion) Year
Year Seawater pCO2 (matm)
(world population) Seawater pH
Which of the following is a conclusion that can be drawn from these graphs?
A. Humans are the cause of decreasing pH levels in seawater.

B. Humans are the cause of increasing CO2 levels in the atmosphere.
C. The pH levels in seawater decrease as the CO2 levels in the atmosphere increase.
D. The pH levels in the atmosphere increase as the CO2 levels in seawater increase.

Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation ESS12–5, EES12–14 5–6 C
– 59 –
It has been claimed that climate variation is due to increasing levels of atmospheric CO2.
Which of following if true, would NOT support this claim?
A. Reduced acidification of the oceans

B. Reduced areas of glaciers and sea ice
C. Increased incidence of above average annual temperatures on Earth
D. Increased incidence of abnormal weather patterns and extreme weather events

Mod 7 Influences of Human Activities on EES12–14 3–4 A
Changes to Climate
Which chemicals react with each other to form a greenhouse gas?
A. Iron and water

B. Nitrous oxides and water
C. Sulfur trioxide and water
D. Hydrocarbons and oxygen

Mod 7 Influences of Human Activities on EES12–14 3–4 D
Changes to Climate
– 60 –
Which everyday activity may reduce a person’s contribution to the greenhouse effect?
A. Carpooling to get to work

B. Using less fertiliser on the lawn
C. Reducing the use of CFC aerosols
D. Watering the garden in the evening

Mod 7 Mitigation and Adaptation EES12–14 2–3 A
Strategies
Approximately 75% of the world’s energy needs are produced by the combustion of fossil
fuels.
Which equation summarises the combustion of fossil fuels?
A. Methane + oxygen carbon monoxide + water + energy

B. Hydrocarbons + carbon dioxide oxygen + water + energy
C. Hydrocarbons + oxygen carbon dioxide + water + energy
D. Methane + hydrocarbons + oxygen carbon dioxide + water + energy

Mod 7 Mitigation and Adaptation EES12–14 3–4 C
Strategies
– 61 –
The living world provides us with unexpected evidence of climate variation.
(a) Outline how the science of dendrochronology provides evidence for variations 3
in climate.
(b) Explain how ancient and more recent evidence, other than dendrochronology, 5
supports the belief that climate variation has occurred in the past.
Mapping grid (a):

Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation ESS12–6, EES12–14 2–4

Criteria Marks
• Outlines how dendrochronology provides evidence for variations in
3
climate
• Shows some understanding of dendrochronology 2
Sample answer:
Dendrochronology is the science of studying the pattern of growth rings in a cross-section of
tree trunks. The number of rings is equal to the age of the tree in years. The varying width
of the growth rings indicates the amount of growth each year which relates to the rainfall
and climate at the time. So thinner growth rings indicate a dryer climate than thicker growth
rings.
– 62 –
Mapping grid (b):

Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation ESS12–4, EES12–5, 2–6
EES12–6, EES12–14

Criteria Marks
• Explains how ancient and more recent evidence supports the belief of
5
climate variation
• Outlines ancient and more recent evidence to support the belief of
climate variation 4
• Explains at least one of them
• Outlines ancient and/or more recent evidence to support the belief of
3
climate variation
• Identifies ancient and/or more recent evidence to support the belief of
climate variation
OR 2
• Outlines ancient or more recent evidence to support the belief of climate
variation
Sample answer:
Marine microfossils, such as Formanifera, are evidence of the ocean temperature at the
location where they were fossilized, as different species live in certain water temperatures.
For example, Formanifera fossils of species found in Arctic waters today have been found
off the coast of Britain, which must have had much colder water at the time. Also the ratio
of oxygen-18 to oxygen-16 isotopes in their shells indicates the temperature of the sea as
there is more oxygen-18 in colder seas, and hence in their shells.
Pollen grains fossilize very well for long periods of time due to their resistant cell walls. Their
record in sedimentary beds over time is a good indicator of climate variation due to the
specific requirements for temperatures and precipitation of the plants from which they came.
Aboriginal art is a record from the past for at least 28 000 years. Their drawings include
animals and environments that change with the age of the art, and so provide evidence for
climate variation. In one location in Western Australia, 1600 km north of Perth, the progress
of the ice age that occurred 22 000 years ago can be traced through the art record, with land
animals giving way to depictions of the marine species once the ice melted and the seas
rose.
End of Question 8
– 63 –
Explain how speleothems such as stalagmites and stalactites can be used as evidence 4
for climate variation.
Mapping grid:
Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation EES12–5, EES12–6 2–6
EES12–14
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Explains how speleothems can be used as evidence for climate variation
4
with reference to their formation and isotope ratio
• Outlines the formation of speleothems
3
• Links isotope ratio to climate variation
• Shows some understanding of speleothems 2
Sample answer:
Two isotopes of oxygen, oxygen-16 and oxygen-18, exist in nature. Their ratio is
temperature-dependent, so can be used as evidence for climate variation. For example, as
the temperature becomes colder, the proportion of oxygen-18 increases. Formations called
speleothems found in caves, such as stalagmites and stalactites, are formed when calcium
carbonate is precipitated from water seeping through limestone rocks. When speleothems
form, oxygen is trapped in their crystal structure, reflecting in the isotopic ratio of oxygen in
the atmosphere at that time. As speleothems form very slowly, their isotopic ratios can be
used as scientific evidence for variation in temperatures and rainfall for up to 200 000 years.
– 64 –
Annotate the image below to explain the different climatic conditions that occurred 3
during this tree’s life.
Mapping grid:
Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation EES12–5, EES12–6, 3–5
EES12–7, EES12–14
– 65 –
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Correctly annotates image to explain climatic conditions 3
• Annotates image to indicate some climatic conditions 2
Sample answer:
Thinner growth ring indicates
less growth, less rainfall
during that year.
The wider growth ring Very thin growth ring

means there was a lot of indicates drought
growth. This indicates there
was high rainfall during that
year.
End of Question 10
– 66 –
The global temperature at the time of the formation of ice is calculated by using 3
oxygen isotope levels in the ice.
Explain how the isotope levels reflect past temperatures.
Mapping grid:
Mod 7 Evidence for Climate Variation EES12–14 4–6
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Explains how the isotope levels reflect past temperatures 3
• Shows some understanding of 16O : 18O ratios 2
Sample answer:
Oxygen gas contains two stable isotopes, oxygen 16 (16O) and oxygen 18 (18O). 16O is
the more abundant isotope by far. 16O evaporates more easily from the ocean than the
heavier 18O. During glacial periods (ice ages) more of the 16O evaporates from the sea
and becomes locked up in glaciers after falling as snow. Thus ice cores showing a higher
16
O : 18O ratio indicate lower temperatures.
– 67 –
(a) The graph shows the production of greenhouse gases (GHGs) from various 2
sources for a country.
Stationary energy sources,

such as coal-fired power stations
Transport
Coal mines
Agriculture
Land use
Land change
Other
Based on the information provided, identify TWO ways that people in this
country could reduce their contribution to greenhouse gases. Justify your answer
(b) A range of mitigation and adaptation strategies have been developed to minimise 7
and respond to the effects of climate variation.
Recommend urban design strategies that could be used to reduce the emission
of greenhouse gases. Support your answer with research evidence.
Mapping grid (a):

Mod 7 Influence of Human Activities on Changes EES12–6, EES12–14 2–4
to Climate
Mod 7 Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies

Criteria Marks
• Identifies TWO ways
2
• Provides justifications
• Identifies TWO ways
OR 1
• Identifies ONE way with justification
Sample answer:
People could have shorter or cooler showers to use less electricity, since energy sources
are the main contributor to greenhouse gases in the country.
People may also walk or ride a bicycle to work since transport contributes more than 1/8 of
the country’s greenhouse gases.
– 68 –
Mapping grid (b):

Mod 7 Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies ESS12–4, EES12–5, 2–6
EES12–6, EES12–14

Criteria Marks
• Provides reasons in favour of urban design strategies that could be used
to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases 7
• Supports answer with relevant research evidence
• Provides reasons in favour of urban design strategies that could be used
to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases 6
• Includes some research evidence
• Describes relevant urban design strategies
5
• Supports proposed strategies with justifications
• Describes relevant urban design strategies
4
• Provides some justification
• Identifies relevant urban design strategies
3
• Outlines at least one relevant strategy
• Identifies relevant urban design strategies
OR 2
• Outlines a relevant urban design strategy
Answers could include:
• Many countries are beginning to consider ways of reducing GHG emissions when new
urban developments are being planned and built. Since energy and transport are two of
the biggest contributors to greenhouse gases, urban designs that minimise the use of
both are preferable. This means locating new urban developments close to resources
needed for building and close to commercial and educational centres for commuters
who will live in these new towns. Higher density living also has a smaller demand on
resources per capita as less energy is used, less distance needs to be travelled due
to better access to transport and infrastructure, fewer building materials are used and
transported, and waste collection is more energy efficient. These designs also leave
more land for agriculture that has a lower carbon footprint than housing. However, when
building designs implement GHG mitigation strategies, valid, reliable and accurate data is
essential for their success to be assessed.
– 69 –
• One study in Finland on the outskirts of Helsinki targeted the earthworks and building
resources stage as an area for mitigating GHGs. The urban development covered 150 Ha
and would house 500 000 residents when completed. Their research emphasised that
planning is a critical stage for achieving measurable success. The researchers spent
considerable time in liaising with local authorities and nearby towns and locating nearby
building resources. They decided to use local stone which was the waste produced by
building a 1 km tunnel for a transport corridor which was part of the city design. The stone
was crushed and provided 85% of the structural stone needed for building, so reducing
the additional amount to be transported to the site. Waste clay was also excavated from
the site and, instead of being transported from the area, was used to landscape a hill
nearby. Accurate figures were kept and, at the end of the project, an average of 40% of
GHG emissions was saved by use of the recycled stone alone. Further GHG mitigation
was also documented from the reuse of the clay. By planning and employing these
mitigation strategies at the earthworks and building materials stage, this project was
successful in demonstrating how urban design planning and use of mitigation strategies
can significantly lower GHG emissions during urban development.
End of Question 12
– 70 –
Module 8 Resource Management
Which of the following should be used to rehabilitate a mine site contaminated with toxic
metals?
A. Collect and remove acid rain

B. Treat tailings and wastewater
C. Seed the area with native vegetation
D. Place wooden barriers over old mine shafts

Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–6, EES12–15 4–5 B
– 71 –
The map shows the location and type of Australia’s renewable power plants.
Australian renewable
power plants
above 3 kilowatt
capacity
Solar
Water
Wind
Bagasse
Landfill methane
Sewage methane
Other
Source: Australian Government Department of Resources Energy and Tourism 2008 Report
Which of the following CANNOT be deduced from this map?
A. The main source of renewable energy is water.

B. Energy production from wind is restricted to the coast.
C. Energy production using methane from landfill and sewage is underdeveloped.
D. Energy production is restricted mainly to coastal areas because this is where most of the
energy sources are found.

Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources ESS12–5, EES12–15 4–5 C
– 72 –
The diagram shows the geology of an area where an open-cut lead–zinc mine is proposed.
Q
Proposed
pit
R S
KEY
Limestone
Shale
Conglomerate
Granite
Sandstone
Fault
What is the best site for a tailings dam?
A. P
B. Q
C. R
D. S

Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–15 4–5 D
– 73 –
Which row of the table shows the most appropriate waste management option?
Waste Management option

A. Cardboard Soaked in water and pumped out into the river
B. Hazardous chemical Poured over landfills
C. Glass Broken up into smaller pieces and dumped in landfill
D. Tree trimming Mulched and placed in composting piles

Mod 8 Waste Management EES12–15 2–3 D
The practice of fire stick burning was used by Aboriginal people in the past and is still used
today.
Why is fire stick burning considered a sustainable practice?
A. It promotes fish breeding.

B. It provides pathways for easier travel.
C. It initiates fresh growth of edible plants.
D. It changes the nature of both plant and animal species over time.

Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–15 2–3 C
– 74 –
A copper mine, closed more than twenty years ago, has since been abandoned. Toxic waste in
the tailings has not been removed and toxic copper sulfide has been leaked into the river system
since the mine’s closure. Today, there is no aquatic life for at least 7 km downstream. Clean-up
and reclamation costs have been estimated to be between $20 and $50 million.
Which of the following would best address this type of problem?
A. Ask local communities to remove toxic waste from mining sites.

B. Require mine operators to conduct research and development into clean-up and
reclamation.
C. Require mine operators to pay an environmental bond at the start of operations to cover
clean-up and reclamation costs.
D. Require fencing to be erected around mining sites and surrounding rivers so that wildlife
cannot drink contaminated water.

Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–15 3–4 C
– 75 –
(a) Using examples, describe human activities that have negatively affected the 3
sustainability of Australian resources.
(b) Explain why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples can be described as 4
sustainable resource managers.
Mapping grid (a):

Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–15 2–4

Criteria Marks
• Provides relevant examples
• Uses the examples to describe human activities that have negatively 3
affected the sustainability of Australian resources
• Provides relevant examples and shows some link between the examples
and sustainability
OR 2
• Uses an example to describe human activities that have negatively
affected sustainability
• Identifies a negative effect of human activities on sustainability 1
Sample answer:
Humans have over-logged old-growth forests. This has resulted in the destruction of animal
and plant habitats as not enough trees remain to permit seed germination and regrowth.
Manufacturing activities, such as metal smelters, have released waste products including
toxic elements into waterways, causing the death of fish populations. The fish cannot breed
and the population is no longer sustainable.
– 76 –
Mapping grid (b):

Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–15 2–5

Criteria Marks
• Explains why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples can be
4
described as sustainable resource managers
• Outlines activities practised by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
3
Peoples that contribute to sustainable resource management
• Identifies activities practised by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Peoples that are related to sustainable resource management
OR 2
• Outlines an activity practised by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
Peoples that is related to sustainable resource management
• Provides some relevant information about Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait
1
Islander Peoples’ culture
Sample answer:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ culture has a deeply symbolic and emotional
connection to ‘Country and Place’ and this underpins life activities. Food gathering relates
to the seasons, with specific times for hunting, fishing and harvesting, especially to Torres
Strait Islanders. The people move from area to area, maintaining sustainability, so no area is
over-utilised. They have, more recently, used items that have been washed up on particular
islands and repurposed them eg ghost netting to create art works.
In addition, fire is used to maintain areas of burnt land and regrowth, particularly in
Aboriginal cultures. The philosophy behind the fires ensures they can plan and predict areas
where animals will graze on grasslands, and areas with edible plants and fresh drinking
water can be sustained, ensuring that there is always a supply of foods.
End of Question 7
– 77 –
The table shows world energy usage in terawatts (TW = 1012 watts) from 1965 to
2005, and gives projected world energy usage for 2025 and 2055.
Year Oil Coal Gas Other energy

sources
(TW) (TW) (TW) (TW)
1965 2.0 2.0 0.8 0.1
1975 3.5 2.2 1.5 0.2
1985 3.7 2.7 2.0 0.4
1995 4.3 3.0 2.5 0.6
2005 5.0 3.8 3.3 0.9
2025 4.0 3.8 3.8 2.1
2055 1.5 3.9 4.3 4.4
(a) Using information in the table, predict ONE economic effect of projected world 1
energy usage.
(b) Justify the use of ONE energy source other than oil, coal or gas in meeting 3
future world energy demand.
Mapping grid (a):

Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–5, EES12–15 3–4

Criteria Marks
• Gives a valid economic effect 1
Sample answer:
There will be increased investment in other energy sources to meet increasing demand.
– 78 –
Mapping grid (b):

Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–6, EES12–15 3–5

Criteria Marks
• Identifies one other energy source
• Justifies its use in meeting future world energy demand 3
• Gives a point for or against its use
• Outlines one other energy source that may meet future world energy
2
demand
Sample answer:
Solar energy can provide electrical energy from photovoltaic cells. This electricity can
be substituted for electricity produced from fossil fuels, thus meeting some of the world’s
energy needs for electricity. It also reduces pollution.
End of Question 8
– 79 –
A practical investigation of the composition of household or organisational waste is

to be carried out.
(a) Outline a method that can be used to carry out this investigation. 2
(b) Explain how ONE potential risk in this investigation can be managed. 2
(c) Explain how the results can be used to improve the management of this waste. 2
Mapping grid (a):

Mod 8 Waste Management EES12–2, EES12–4, 2–4
EES12–15

Criteria Marks
• Outlines a suitable method 2
Sample answer:
Separate waste into groups, eg plastic, paper, glass and organic. Count and record the
amount (volume or weight) of each type of waste.
Mapping grid (b):

Mod 8 Waste Management EES12–2, EES12–15 2–4

Criteria Marks
• Explains how ONE potential risk can be managed 2
Sample answer:
Protective equipment such as closed shoes, gloves and safety glasses should be worn as
there may be broken glass or other sharp objects in the waste.
– 80 –
Mapping grid (c):

Mod 8 Waste Management EES12–5, EES12–6, 3–5
EES12–7, EES12–15
Marking guidelines (c):

Criteria Marks
• Explains how the results can be used to improve the management of the
2
waste
Sample answer:
The results could show ways in which waste can be managed, eg if there is a lot of organic
waste, producing compost would be a sustainable solution. If there is a lot of recyclable
material, recycling services should be used.
End of Question 9
– 81 –
Explain how human activities could affect the sustainability of Earth’s resources. 7
Mapping grid:
Mod 8 Sustainability EES12–5, EES12–7, 2–6
EES12–15
Marking guidelines:
Criteria Marks
• Shows a comprehensive understanding of the effects of human activities
on sustainability
7
• Clearly relates the effects of relevant human activities to the
sustainability of Earth’s natural resources
• Describes how human activities could affect the sustainability of Earth’s
natural resources
6
• Relates some effects of the activities to the sustainability of Earth’s
natural resources
• Describes how human activities could affect the sustainability of Earth’s
5
natural resources
• Outlines how human activities could affect sustainability of Earth’s
4
natural resources
• Identifies human activities and/or factors that could affect sustainability
3
• Outlines how a human activity could affect sustainability
• Identifies human activities and/or factors that could affect sustainability
OR 2
• Outlines a human activity or factor that could affect sustainability
• Shows a basic understanding of sustainability or Earth’s natural
1
resources
– 82 –
Sample answer:
Water pollution could be catastrophic for entire eco-systems and could severely affect the
sustainability of Earth’s natural resources. Water pollution could be caused by a variety of
factors such as improper disposal of waste from wastewater treatment plants and factories,
deforestation, mining, agriculture and oil spills. Water pollution could disrupt the breeding
and feeding patterns of flora and fauna that lives in the waters. It may cause them to
relocate to other habitats, or, more seriously, it may kill off the species.
As well as endangering the population of whole species, water pollution could have a
greater knock-on effect on the food pyramid as a whole. When the main food source of
an animal becomes endangered or extinct, that animal will have problem finding food or
become poisoned through eating the same chemicals that killed its prey, leading to a chain
effect.
Another human activity that could affect sustainability is water allocations or damming.
For example, cutting the amount of water set aside for environmental flow to increase the
amount of water released for farm irrigation could affect the sustainability of river systems.
Environmental flows are an artificial release of water into a river system to maintain
natural processes. Advantages of environmental flows include depositing sediments
on top of decaying organisms, the stimulation of eggs to hatch for the breeding of fish,
the encouragement of water birds back to an area, reducing salinity and preventing
eutrophication.
As a result of cutting the amount of water set out for environmental flows, the sustainability
of river systems could be affected. This is due to less oxygen being available for organisms
as decaying organisms reduce the available oxygen and as a result fish can be deprived of
oxygen. Eutrophication can also occur and limit light available for photosynthesising aquatic
plants.
Flood irrigation methods used by some farmers may also increase salinity due to the rising
water table, resulting in higher management and rehabilitation costs into the future.
End of sample questions
– 83 –
© 2019 NSW Education Standards Authority
HIGHER SCHOOL CERTIFICATE
2019 EXAMINATION
Earth and Environmental Science

Geological Time Scale
EON ERA PERIOD EPOCH

Holocene
0
Quaternary Pleistocene
2
Pliocene
5
Neogene
10
Miocene
Cenozoic
20
30 Oligocene
40
Paleogene Eocene
50
Phanerozoic
60 Palaeocene
Ma BP
70
Mesozoic
Cretaceous
100
Jurassic
200
Triassic
Permian
300
Carboniferous
Palaeozoic
Devonian
400
Silurian
Ordovician
500
Cambrian
Neopro-
terozoic
Ediacaran
600
Proterozoic
Precambrian
1000
2000
3000 Archaean
4000
Hadean
– 84 –

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NSW Education Standards Authority

Earth and Environmental

Additional sample examination questions

Question List .................................................................................................. 4

Module 5 Earth’s Processes ........................................................ 8

Module 6 Hazards ..................................................................... 33

Module 7 Climate Science ........................................................ 57

Module 8 Resource Management ............................................. 71

Earth and Environmental Science geological time scale............................. 84

Module 5 Earth’s Processes

Mod 5 – 1* 1 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–12 2–3

Mod 5 – 2* 1 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–12 2–3

Mod 5 – 3* 1 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–12 3–4

Mod 5 – 4* 1 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–6, EES12–12 3–4

Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere,

Mod 5 – 9* 1 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–6, EES12–12 4–5

Mod 5 – 10* 1 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–5, EES12–12 2–3

Mod 5 – 11* 1 Mod 5 Plate Tectonic Supercycle EES12–12 3–4

Mod 5 – 12* 1 Mod 5 Fossil Formation and Stratigraphy EES12–12 2–3

Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere

Mod 5 – 21 (a) 2 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–5, EES12–12 2–4

Mod 5 – 21 (b) 3 Mod 5 Development of the Biosphere EES12–5, EES12–12 3–6

Mod 5 Changes in the Geosphere, EES12–6, ESS12–7,

Mod 6 – 1* 1 Mod 6 Geological Natural Disasters EES12–5, EES12–13 2–3

Module 7 Climate Science

Mod 7 Natural Processes of Variations in

Module 8 Resource Management

Mod 8 – 1* 1 Mod 8 Using Australia’s Natural Resources EES12–6, EES12–15 4–5

A. Defence, predation and protection

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Which were the most relevant products formed?

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Which of the following best describes cyanobacteria?

A. Simple photosynthetic organisms

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Which process increased the level of oxygen in Earth’s early atmosphere?

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Stage Stage Stage Stage

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Which of the following is an effect of the evolution of photosynthesising bacteria?

A. The hydrosphere became more acidified.

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Early anoxic atmosphere

The ozone layer formed

Banded iron Cyanobacteria Atmospheric oxygen Oceanic oxygen

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

A. an interactive 3D model of Earth’s crust.

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

The diagram shows a model of the plate tectonic supercycle.

KEY Continental crust Ocean crust

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Which of the following is best explained by the plate tectonic supercycle?

A. Cyclical patterns of volcanic eruptions

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

Which technique is most useful in absolute dating of rock bodies?

Content Syllabus outcomes Bands Key

How old is the lava flow?