Understanding the New Exam Format

This video is designed for students preparing for the Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) exams in May 2017, highlighting the new exam format. It explains the changes in the exam structure, including the introduction of a case study in Paper 1 and the restructuring of Paper 2. The video emphasizes the importance of understanding the mark band for essay questions and provides guidance on how to achieve high marks. It also offers study tips, focusing on the construction of system diagrams and understanding the interaction between different environmental components.

What is the primary reason for creating this video tutorial?

• To introduce a new subject

• To provide a general overview of environmental systems

• To discuss past exam papers

• To prepare students for a new exam format

What is the main component of Paper 1 in the new exam format?

• An oral presentation

• Multiple-choice questions

• Short answer questions

• A case study

How much weight does Paper 2 carry in the new exam format?

• 75%

• 50%

• 25%

• 100%

What is a new feature of the structured essay questions in Section B of Paper 2?

• They are multiple-choice

• They are optional

• They are worth nine marks

• They are group projects

What should students aim for in their responses to achieve the highest mark band?

• Minimal use of examples

• Basic understanding of concepts

• General statements without context

• Substantial evidence and sound knowledge

How does the 2017 syllabus content compare to previous years?

• It is completely different

• It is very similar

• It has fewer topics

• It is more focused on practical skills

What is emphasized in the new layout of the ESS guide?

• Memorizing facts

• Writing notes on applications and skills

• Focusing on historical data

• Ignoring system diagrams

What is a key application in the ESS guide's section 1.2?

• Creating a bibliography

• Conducting a field study

• Constructing a system diagram

• Writing a research paper

Why is it important to construct good systems diagrams?

• To avoid using textbooks

• To memorize facts

• To simplify exam questions

• To show interactions between environmental components

What components should be shown in a systems diagram?

• Only human-made components

• Both biotic and abiotic components

• Only abiotic components

• Only biotic components