Welcome to AP.E.S AP. Environmental Science Mrs. McClain

APES course description Provides students with scientific principles, concepts, & methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world You will have to analyze & interpret information & experimental data, including mathematical calculations. You will learn how to identify & analyze environmental problems, to evaluate the ecological and human health risks associated with these problems and to critically examine various solutions for resolving or preventing them.

Course Topics TopicDescriptionPortion of exam Earth Systems & ResourcesIncludes geological processes such as plate tectonics, rock cycle, soil formation. Seasons, atmosphere, climate, solar radiation 10-15% The Living WorldEcosystems interactions & structure in both aquatic & land biomes, components of populations & communities, flow of energy, nutrient cycles, natural selection, succession 10-15% PopulationReproductive strategies, interactions, characteristics of populations, transitions, & carrying capacity. Human population growth & sustainable practices 10-15% Land and Water UseAddresses human use of land and water resources, agriculture, forestry, urban development, fishing practices, conservation & preservation of the resources 10-15%

Course Topics…Continued TopicDescriptionPortion of exam Energy ResourcesInvolves assessments of nonrenewable fossil fuels, alternative and renewable sources of energy including nuclear power, hydropower, solar power, geothermal, tidal, biomass, & hydrogen. Human use and approaches to efficiency 10-15% PollutionAddresses types of pollution including air, soil, water, noise, and light; as well as the impacts on humans physically and economically 25-30% Global ChangeIncludes issues relating to the earth as a whole, such as atmospheric change, climate alteration, and biodiversity loss %

How does APES count? Should replace 1 science class if you make 3 or better on APES exam, but entirely depends on the college you attend. Check with your college to see what score they require Every AP class you take in high school and pass the AP exam is one class you DO NOT have to pay for in college!

AP Exam May 6, 2013 (first AP test given) 2 Parts –Multiple Choice: 100 questions in 90 minutes 60% of grade…ANWER EVERY QUESTION! No penalties for wrong answers –Free Response Questions: 4 FRQ’s in 90 min 40% of grade These are semi-short ESSAYS

What you will need for APES… Positive attitude and WILLINGNESS to get your work done & turned in ON TIME! Your presence…don’t be absent unless absolutely necessary! Internet access: Lots of independent research!

Field Trips

Chattahoochee Nature Center Project H2O Water Quality Testing Biological collections

Nuclear Power Presenter: Nathan Zohner Comes to class to discuss nuclear power, waste management, nuclear power accidents, & more.

Waterborne Illnesses Presentation Cobb Watershed Stewardship Program 2 day in class Lab

Noon Day Sewage Treatment Plant 2 -3 hour trip AP exam has questions on treatment plants Several Hands on Projects

Any Questions?