Course Description

APES Big Ideas

Big Idea 1: Energy Transfers (ENG)

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.

Big Idea 2: Interactions Between Earth Systems (ERT)

The Earth is one interconnected system. Natural systems change over time and space. Biogeochemical systems vary in ability to recover from disturbances.

Big Idea 3: Interactions Between Different Species & the Environment (EIN)

Humans alter natural systems and 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.

Big Idea 4: Sustainability (STB)

Human survival depends on developing practices that will achieve sustainable systems. A suitable combination of conservation and development is required. The management of resources is essential. Understanding the role of cultural, social, and economic factors is vital to the development of solutions.

APES Science Practices

Practice 1: Concept Explanation

Explain environmental concepts, processes, and models in written format.

Practice 2: Visual Representations

Analyze visual representations of environmental concepts and processes.

Practice 3: Text Analysis

Analyze sources of information about environmental issues.

Practice 4: Scientific Experiments

Analyze research studies that test environmental principles.

Practice 5: Data Analysis

Analyze and interpret quantitative data represented in tables, charts, and graphs.

Practice 6: Mathematical Routines

Apply quantitative methods to address environmental concepts.

Practice 7: Environmental Solutions

Propose and justify solutions to environmental problems.

APES Units with Exam Weighting

Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems (6-8%)

Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (6-8%)

Unit 3: Populations (10-15%)

Unit 4: Earth Systems & Resources (10-15%)

Unit 5: Land & Water Use (10-15%)

Unit 6: Energy Resources & Consumption (10-15%)

Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (7-10%)

Unit 8: Aquatic & Terrestrial Pollution (7-10%)

Unit 9: Global Change (15-20%)

The APES exam consists of 80 multiple choice questions and 3 free response questions.