Course title

Environmental Science VIRTUAL

Pre-requisite

N/A

Course description

Environmental Science explores the biological, physical, and sociological principles related to the environment in which organisms live on Earth, the biosphere. Course topics include natural systems on Earth, biogeochemical cycles, the nature of matter and energy, the flow of matter and energy through living systems, populations, communities, ecosystems, ecological pyramids, renewable and non-renewable natural resources, land use, biodiversity, pollution, conservation, sustainability, and human impacts on the environment.The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, deconstruct claims, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Case studies of current environmental challenges introduce each content lesson and acquaint students with real-life environmental issues, debates, and solutions. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Virtual Lab activities enable students to engage in investigations that require long periods of observation at remote locations and to explore simulations that enable environmental scientists to test predictions. Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how biology, earth science, and physical science are applied to the study of the environment and how technology and engineering are contributing solutions for studying and creating a sustainable biosphere.This course is built to state standards.Length: Two Semesters

LABS

Lab: Investigate Cycling of O2 and CO2. Lab: Investigate Weathering and Erosion. Lab: Investigate Using a Dichotomous Key. Lab: Investigate Cycling of Matter and Energy. Lab: Investigate Resource Consumption. Lab: Investigate How Pollutants Affect Plants. Lab: Investigate Your Ecological Footprint. Lab: Investigate Food Security.

 

School country

United States

School state

Minnesota

High school

Excel High School

School / district Address

601 Carlson Parkway Suite 1250 Minnetonka, MN

School zip code

55305

Requested competency code

Lab Science

Date submitted

10/25/2023

Approved

Yes

Approved competency code

• LINT
• Integrated science

Approved date

11/14/2023

Online / Virtual

Yes