I am delighted to introduce a brand-new, comprehensive study aid designed specifically for the SEC 13 Environmental Studies learning outcome-based syllabus issued by MATSEC. This publication in e-book format, is intended as a useful tool for teachers and students alike and is aimed for use in Years 9 to 11.
The subject of Environmental Studies is dynamic and critically important—it’s about the interconnectedness of History, Geography and Social Studies-based themes with a larger focus on the Maltese archipelago. Topics covered by the SEC 13 syllabus include our climate, geology, resources, economy, culture and society right here in the Maltese Islands and globally. However, navigating a comprehensive, outcome-based syllabus can be challenging, both for students preparing for the exam and for teachers striving to ensure all required content is covered effectively. This publication is not simply a collection of general notes, but a strategically structured resource built to mirror the syllabus document precisely. The entire e-book is organised around each individual Assessment Criterion (AC) listed in the official SEC 13 Environmental Studies syllabus. This meticulous organisation ensures:
- For Students: You can target your studying with surgical precision. Instead of wondering “What exactly do I need to know about water pollution?”, you will find clear, concise content directly addressing criteria such as 12.3q (“Describe the opportunities offered by the European Union to young people”) or 4.2c (related to soil as a natural resource), as detailed in the syllabus. This approach eliminates guesswork and maximizes study efficiency.
- For Teachers: You gain an invaluable tool for planning and delivery. You can confidently assign reading material knowing it directly correlates to the exact required content, making lesson preparation, homework assignment, and topic revision more targeted and efficient.
Whether you are mastering the complexities of tectonic activity, understanding the implications of waste management, or identifying the opportunities offered by the European Union, this e-book breaks down the entire syllabus into manageable, criterion-specific sections.
As a commitment to Malta’s student and teacher community, the SEC 13 Environmental Studies Notes e-book is available to everyone free of charge. My hope is that this resource will alleviate some of the pressure of exam preparation and empower every student to approach the SEC 13 paper with confidence and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Furthermore, this publication aims to foster a deeper appreciation of the archipelago’s geology, cultural richness, and heritage. It is my hope that students will be inspired to cultivate a lasting interest in environmental stewardship and the unique legacy of Maltese heritage beyond their academic journey. I wish all students the very best in their preparation and success in their SEC 13 examination.
Dr Keith Buhagiar
Head of Department for Environmental Studies and Geography
Secretariat for Catholic Education