The Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science course offers a rigorous and interdisciplinary introduction to the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. This course delves into both natural and human-made environmental issues, employing laboratory investigations and fieldwork to deepen students' understanding. It's structured to mirror a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science and is designed for high school students who have completed two years of laboratory science (including life science and physical science) as well as a minimum of one year of algebra.

Key Skills Developed

Throughout the course, students will develop a range of analytical and practical skills, including but not limited to:

• Understanding Environmental Processes and Concepts: Grasping the foundational principles that govern the natural world and our impact on it.

• Analyzing and Interpreting Data: Students learn to critically evaluate data, graphs, and scientific literature to draw conclusions about environmental issues.

• Quantitative Problem-Solving: Applying mathematical and statistical methods to address, analyze, and solve environmental problems.

• Environmental Solutions and Evidence-Based Arguments: Proposing viable solutions to environmental challenges and backing up these proposals with solid evidence and scientific principles.

• Research Analysis: Identifying hypotheses, methodologies, and conclusions in scientific studies related to environmental science.

Course Structure and Content

The AP Environmental Science curriculum is segmented into nine primary units, each focusing on different thematic areas crucial to the field. This structure is designed to guide students through a logical progression of topics, from foundational ecological principles to complex environmental issues impacting the globe.

1. The Living World: Ecosystems:

   • Focuses on ecosystem structure, function, and the interdependence of organisms and environments. This includes discussions on biomes, productivity, and ecological energy flow.

2. The Living World: Biodiversity:

   • Examines the critical importance of biodiversity for ecosystem resilience and human well-being, along with threats to biodiversity and conservation efforts.

3. Populations:

   • Addresses the dynamics of population growth, including human populations, and explores the implications for resource use and environmental impact.

4. Earth Systems and Resources:

   • Covers the physical processes that shape our planet, including tectonics, soil science, atmospheric and oceanic circulation, and their influences on climate and biomes.

5. Land and Water Use:

   • Investigates human interactions with the Earth's surface, including agriculture, urban development, and natural resource management, highlighting sustainable practices.

6. Energy Resources and Consumption:

   • Analyzes the types, uses, impacts, and sustainable aspects of energy sources, from fossil fuels to renewable energy technologies.

7. Atmospheric Pollution:

   • Explores the sources, effects, and control measures of air pollution, including global issues like climate change and ozone depletion.

8. Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution:

   • Looks at the causes and effects of pollution in various environments, addressing waste management, water quality, and remediation strategies.

9. Global Change:

   • Focuses on large-scale environmental changes, including climate change, ocean acidification, and biodiversity loss, along with mitigation and adaptation strategies.

Exam and Assessment

The AP Environmental Science Exam, scheduled for Thursday, May 9, 2024, at 8 AM local time, assesses students' mastery of the course content through a combination of multiple-choice and free-response questions. The exam evaluates students' abilities to analyze environmental problems, propose realistic solutions, and interpret and synthesize information.

Laboratory and Field Work

An essential component of the course involves hands-on laboratory work and field studies, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. This experiential learning is vital for developing practical skills in environmental science research and analysis.

Course Prerequisites

The recommended prerequisites for AP Environmental Science include two years of high school laboratory science (life science and physical science) and at least one year of algebra. These prerequisites ensure that students have the necessary background knowledge and analytical skills to succeed in the course.

In summary, the AP Environmental Science course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address the environmental challenges facing the planet. Through a combination of classroom learning, laboratory experiments, and fieldwork, students gain a comprehensive understanding of environmental science principles and practices, preparing them for further education and careers in related fields.