In Topic 2, students explain the geographical processes that result in ecological hazards and hazard zones. They recognise the spatial patterns of hazard zones and the implications for people and environments. Students investigate natural and anthropogenic factors to identify why some places are more vulnerable to ecological hazards than other places.
Students conduct a case study of a selected ecological hazard to understand the factors that contribute to the spread of the hazard and the resulting primary, secondary and tertiary impacts on communities. Students propose action for managing a selected ecological hazard. Through their investigation students understand that ecological hazards evident in the world today pose significant management challenges.
Geography 2019 v1.1 General Senior Syllabus p23
Key Questions
What is an ecological hazard?
Where do ecological hazards occur and why?
What biological and anthropogenic factors influence a community’s vulnerability to specific ecological hazards?
What factors affect the severity of impacts of an ecological hazard?
What actions can be taken to reduce risk?
What factors affect a community’s response to an ecological hazard?
How are people in developed and developing communities affected differently by ecological hazards?
Why might different communities seek different solutions to the challenges of ecological hazards?
How does climate change affect the impact of some ecological hazards?