Biology II/AP Environmental Science
The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students
with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand
the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze
environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative
risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for
resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it
embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study. Yet there are
several major unifying constructs, or themes, that cut across the many topics
included in the study of environmental science. The following themes provide a
foundation for the structure of the AP Environmental Science course.
1. Science is a process. • Science is a method of learning more about the world. • Science constantly changes the way we understand the world. 2. Energy conversions underlie all ecological processes. • Energy cannot be created; it must come from somewhere. • As energy flows through systems, at each step more of it becomes unusable. 3. The Earth itself is one interconnected system. • Natural systems change over time and space. • Biogeochemical systems vary in ability to recover from disturbances. 4. Humans alter natural systems. • Humans have had an impact on the environment for millions of years. • Technology and population growth have enabled humans to increase both the rate and scale of their impact on the environment. 5. Environmental problems have a cultural and social context. • Understanding the role of cultural, social, and economic factors is vital to the development of solutions. 6. Human survival depends on developing practices that will achieve sustainable systems. • A suitable combination of conservation and development is required. • Management of common resources is essential. Because of the interdisciplinary nature and the amount of material to prepare before the AP Exam, this course will be fast paced and rely on student’s to complete assignments outside of class time. Use the syllabus as a guide and note that changes may be made as we get into the material. |
Biology II Syllabus
APA Notation Website Week of Oct 29-Nov 2 Ch 6 Silent Spring Friday Water Notes Field Trip –Stream Survey FRQ due Tuesday Water Film/Graphics |