Environmental Science Semester 2

Environmental Science is a semester-long course that explores the relationship between humans and the natural world. Students examine how economic systems, biodiversity, pollution, agriculture, water use, urban development, and resource management impact environmental health and sustainability. Through a combination of readings, discussions, labs, and applied projects, students learn how scientific principles are used to understand environmental challenges and develop real-world solutions. The course emphasizes critical thinking, systems thinking, and responsible environmental decision-making.

Semester Schedule

During Semester 2, the course is organized into thematic units, with most chapters covered at a pace of approximately one chapter per week. Each unit concludes with a dedicated lab week, during which students complete a hands-on lab and take a unit exam. A midterm exam is administered after Unit 7, and the final exam is reviewed and completed before seniors’ last day. The final days of the semester are reserved for a low-pressure, creative insect visual journal activity for lowerclassmen, allowing students to reflect on the importance of insects to environmental systems while accommodating end-of-year school activities.