AP Environmental Science (Self-Paced)

AP Environmental Science is a flexible, college-level journey into the science of our planet. Perfect for students who need a high-quality AP experience without the constraints of a fixed weekly meeting time.

Why Choose This Course?

Have you ever wondered how your daily choices impact the delicate balance of our planet? This course introduces major ecological concepts and pressing environmental issues—such as global warming, acid rain, and invasive species—while emphasizing practical applications relevant to your own community.

This course is College Board authorized and designed to prepare students for success on the AP Exam while developing the scientific skills needed to address real-world problems.

🛠 How the Self-Paced Model Works

We’ve designed this course to provide the ultimate flexibility without sacrificing the structure needed for AP success.

• Work on Your Schedule: Progress through weekly assignments when it works best for you. No mandatory Zoom times.

• Guided Pacing: While you are free to move at your own speed, we provide a Recommended Weekly Schedule to ensure you aren’t overwhelmed come exam season.

• Critical Milestones: To keep students moving forward, there are two major deadlines:

  • January 8, 2027: First Semester completion.

  • May 21, 2027: Full Course completion.

🤝 Instructor Support & Accountability

“Self-paced” does not mean “on your own.” Students receive consistent professional guidance:

• Active Monitoring: I regularly review all submitted assignments, quizzes, and labs to track student growth.

• Quarterly 1-on-1s: Students are required to meet with me via Zoom once every quarter to discuss progress, address challenges, and ensure they are on track.

• Direct Access: Have a question? I am available via email (48-hour response time) and during scheduled office hours for deep dives into complex topics.

🧪 What You Will Learn

Aligned with the official AP framework, the course covers nine units and four Big Ideas through:

• Interactive Labs: A mix of inquiry-based, mini, and virtual labs that build skills in experimental design and data analysis.

• Multimedia Lessons: Engaging videos, simulations, and worked examples hosted on Canvas and AP Classroom.

• Rigorous Prep: Unit assessments modeled after the AP exam to build testing confidence.

Is This the Right Fit?

This course is ideal for students who:

• Are self-motivated and ready for college-level rigor.

• Need a flexible schedule due to sports, work, or other academic commitments.

• Want a “human touch” with instructor feedback and required check-ins.

More Details

Prerequisites & Expectations:

• Commitment: Significant time is required for laboratory and field components.

• Summer Assignment: A required assignment is provided to ensure students are ready on Day 1.

• Tech: Requires high-speed internet and the ability to stream video.

• Streaming video capabilities to watch  videos as assigned
• Computer access
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint or Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides access
• Printer
• Scanner, smartphone, or tablet with the ability to scan

Evaluation and Feedback

All grades will be available in Canvas for students and parents. Assignments will be graded within one week of submission. Students will be evaluated based on their performance in quizzes and tests, mini-laboratory investigations, formal lab reports, homework, and independent projects.  Mastery Checks (i.e., Quizzes) will comprise 20%; Assessments (Unit Tests & Semester Exam) will comprise 20%; Labs & Mini-Labs will comprise 25%; Assignments will comprise 15%; Professionalism will comprise 10%; and Projects will comprise 10%.