IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) is a Group 3 & 4 subject in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). It explores environmental systems, sustainability, biodiversity conservation, climate change, and human-environment interactions, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary analysis combining scientific methodologies with social science perspectives, practical fieldwork, and systems thinking.
The course is available at Standard Level (SL, 150 teaching hours) and Higher Level (HL, 240 teaching hours), with first assessment in 2026.
| Assessment | Format | SL | HL | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Data response and case study questions | 1 hour | 2 hours | 25% (SL), 30% (HL) |
| Paper 2 | Structured short-answer and extended essay questions | 2 hours | 2.5 hours | 50% (SL), 50% (HL) |
| Internal Assessment | Individual investigation (up to 3,000 words) | 25 hours | 25 hours | 25% (SL), 20% (HL) |
Textbooks
Comprehensive notes with diagrams and examples
344 chapters
Lessons
Step-by-step lessons and quizzes
186 lessons
Flashcards
Learn key concepts with active recall
375 flashcard decks
Cheatsheets
Chapter summaries, key concepts, and exam tips
30 cheatsheets
Key Definitions
Essential terms and concepts explained
Develop understanding of their own environmental impact, in the broader context of the impact of humanity on the Earth and its biosphere
Develop knowledge of diverse perspectives to address issues of sustainability
Engage and evaluate the tensions around environmental issues using critical thinking
