Update to VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies Examination Specifications
The VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies examination specifications have recently been amended, with the addition of assessment criteria for the Section B extended-response question.
This update, published by the VCAA, provides greater transparency and clarity about how the extended-response question is developed and assessed in the VCE OES exam.
What has changed?
The key change is the formal inclusion of assessment criteria outlining how the 10–15 mark extended-response question will be constructed and marked.
This brings VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies into alignment with other VCE studies that include extended responses, such as Health and Human Development and Physical Education.
Importantly, there is no change to teaching and learning requirements.
It is very much business as usual.
The criteria reflect what experienced OES teachers have already been preparing students for, and they align with previous VCE OES examination expectations.
Why this matters for OES teachers
For teachers preparing students for the VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies exam, this update simply adds clarity around:
The use of outdoor and environmental knowledge and skills
Application of learning across multiple areas of study
Reference to stimulus material
Use of data collection and observations from outdoor environments studied
If you are already teaching students to apply key knowledge using case studies, fieldwork examples, and precise Study Design language, you are well positioned.
Where to find the updated exam specifications
You can access the updated VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies examination specifications directly via the VCAA website here:
If you have questions about the amendment, the VCAA contact listed is Christopher Clark at Christopher.Clark2@education.vic.gov.au
