AP Environmental Science with a Chemistry Focus
This 9-module course is designed to closely follow the AP Environmental Science framework set by the College Board, with specific attention to the integration of chemistry concepts as they apply to environmental systems.
Rebekah Starr
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(2)
What's included
9 live meetings
8 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursAssignments
2-4 hours per week. Weekly Quizzes: Assess comprehension of chemistry concepts as they apply to environmental science. Lab Reports: Students will complete reports for each (optional) lab activity, emphasizing data analysis and chemical principles. Midterm and Final Exams: These exams will simulate the format of the AP Environmental Science exam, with multiple-choice and free-response questions.Letter Grade
I will grade as we progress through the course, including the final exam. An assessment report will be provided one week after course completion (if requested).Class Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Advanced Level
This course explores the interconnections between chemical principles and environmental science, offering a thorough investigation of key environmental issues such as pollution, energy production, resource management, and sustainability. The course will cover the chemistry behind processes such as air and water pollution, climate change, and renewable energy. It is structured to provide students with a robust understanding of environmental science and chemistry, fulfilling a (homeschool) high-school science credit. Additionally, this course aligns with the AP Environmental Science (APES) standards. Students who are motivated may opt to take the AP Environmental Science exam at the conclusion of the course. The course provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for the exam, though additional independent study may be required. This course seamlessly integrates the *Big Ideas from AP Chemistry* into environmental contexts ensuring learners are well-prepared for both the AP Environmental Science exam and have a deep understanding of chemistry’s role in environmental systems. Big Idea 1: Structure and properties of matter (e.g., pollutants in the atmosphere) Big Idea 2: Chemical reactions and energy (e.g., combustion, acid-base reactions) Big Idea 3: Chemical equilibrium and kinetics (e.g., chemical cycles in nature, pollution breakdown) AP Exam Readiness: This course is designed to closely follow the AP Environmental Science framework set by the College Board, with specific attention to the integration of chemistry concepts as they apply to environmental systems. While this course alone does not guarantee success on the AP exam, it provides a strong basis in environmental science, aligning with the 9 APES units. Students aiming to take the AP exam are supported with optional additional resources, such as practice exams, free-response questions, and test prep recommendations. For more information about taking the AP Environmental Science exam (as a homeschool student), visit: College Board AP Homeschool Resources: [https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/ap-homeschool] AP Exam Registration for Homeschoolers: [https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/register-for-ap-exams/homeschoolers]
Learning Goals
Understand key environmental science concepts, including ecology, resource use, pollution, and climate change, through a chemistry-focused lens.Apply chemical principles to analyze environmental problems and propose solutions.
Develop critical thinking and scientific analysis skills.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows College Board Advanced Placement CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Advanced Placement (AP) Standards9 Lessons
over 9 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Environmental Science and Chemistry
Key Topics: Scientific principles, environmental systems, chemistry review (matter, energy, and systems)
Connection to AP Exam: Environmental systems, scientific processes 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
The Living World – Ecosystems and Biogeochemical Cycles
Key Topics: Ecosystem structure and function, energy flow, biogeochemical cycles (carbon, nitrogen)
Connection to AP Exam: Ecosystem ecology, nutrient cycles
Chemistry Concepts:
- Photosynthesis and cellular respiration (chemical reactions)
- Carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle (chemical transformations) 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Population Ecology and Human Populations
Key Topics: Population dynamics, human population growth, carrying capacity
*Optional Lab Activity: Tragedy of the Commons (simulation) [2 & 3]
Connection to AP Exam: Population dynamics, human impact
Chemistry Concepts:
- Role of resource use (water, energy) in population growth
- Impact of chemical fertilizers on agricultural yields 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Earth Systems and Resources
Key Topics: Geological processes, soil science, water resources, and air quality
*Optional Lab Activity: Soil chemistry
Connection to AP Exam: Water resources, soil and air quality, geological processes
Chemistry Concepts:
- Chemical composition of the atmosphere
- Acid-base reactions in soil and water quality
- Hydrological cycle and water chemistry 55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
Learners attending this course should have successfully completed some high school science courses (in chemistry/biology). I expect to see more senior high learners in this class.
Supply List
A one-page handout with optional lab supplies will be handed out at the beginning of the course.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined October, 2023
5.0
2reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am an experienced educator and environmental professional with a master’s degree in environmental management and over 15 years of college-level teaching experience in science and chemistry. My background includes working in regulatory compliance and industrial chemistry, where I gained practical, real-world insights that inform my teaching. Having transitioned from college-level instruction to corporate training, I now teach industrial process chemistry to professionals, blending academic expertise with industry applications. This diverse experience makes me exceptionally qualified to teach AP Environmental Science, equipping high school students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in college-level coursework and beyond.Reviews
Live Group Course
$30
weekly or $270 for 9 classes1x per week, 9 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
3-12 learners per class
