Course Description

Environmental Science Syllabus coming soon

Environmental Science is a year-long inquiry and hands-on-laboratory-based science course designed to show thematic connections between a variety of science disciplines, including biology, chemistry, geology, botany, ecology, math, toxicology, climatology, astronomy, meteorology, and physics. It gives students a coherent and realistic picture of the applications of a variety of scientific concepts as they manifest in our environment. The aim of this course is to increase students’ knowledge of the environmental challenges of today while continuing to cultivate scientific critical thinking skills and encourage problem-solving.

Course Structure

This course will cover 5 thematic units covering the 4 spheres of the planet: The Lithosphere, The Atmosphere, The Biosphere, and The Hydrosphere. Each sphere of the earth will be explored and investigated, including humans’ impact on each, using a variety of instructional methods, including a flipped classroom where students will use the textbook, digital notebooks, videos, video lectures, and web links to learn about the topics. Live classes will be for demos, labs and mini-labs, and discussion sessions. Outside of class, work will consist of case studies, video questions (using Edpuzzle), notes from video lectures, online labs, and readings from the textbook. Students should expect to do 5-7 hours on assignments per week. Most assignments will be due weekly, with some having longer due dates. Mastery Checks (i.e., quizzes) will be weekly, and tests will be given at the end of each unit. Students will complete most assessments on Canvas. Students are expected to participate in and complete all aspects of required work to the best of their ability. Student achievement will be evaluated in a holistic manner, considering all aspects of performance.

Who should enroll?

This class is for students in grades 9th-12th and 8th graders with prior permission from the instructor.

Technology Requirements

High-speed, broadband Internet
Sound card and microphone (for live sessions)
Streaming video capabilities to watch video lectures and other videos as assigned
Computer Access
Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint or Google Docs, Sheets and Slides Access
Printer
Scanner/Ability to scan with phone or tablet

Supply List

Scientific Calculator (does NOT need to be a graphing calculator)
A 100-sheet graph paper notebook
Pen/pencils
Colored Pencils/Markers
Tape – double-sided as well as clear tape
Scissors
Index Cards
Post-it Notes

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 through performance on quizzes & tests, mini-laboratory investigations, formal lab reports, homework, and independent projects. A progress report will be given mid-semester and at the end of a semester. Parent conferences are available upon request. Mastery Checks (Quizzes) 20% & Assessments (Unit Tests and Semester Exams) 20% , Labs& Mini-Labs 25%, Assignments 15%, Professionalism 10% and Projects 10%.

Communication

Parents and students may contact me through Canvas. I will respond within 48 hours to all communications. Please do not hesitate to contact me or ask questions.