AP Environmental Science
Course Information
Level: 11th or 12th Grade
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry or currently enrolled, Algebra I
Carnegie Units: 1
Number of Grade Points: 5
Locations Offered: STHS
Course Code: 150311
Students cultivate their understanding of the interrelationships of the natural world through inquiry-based lab investigations and field work as they explore concepts like the four Big Ideas; energy transfer, interactions between earth systems, interactions between different species and the environment, and sustainability.
Skills Learned
Explaining environmental concepts and processes
Analyzing data, visual representations, and writings
Applying quantitative methods in solving problems
Proposing a solution for an environmental problem and supporting your idea with evidence
Analyzing a research study to identify a hypothesis
Lab Requirement
Although there are no specific AP Environmental Science labs or field investigations required for the course, it is required that students have the opportunity to spend a minimum of 25% of instructional time engaged in hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory and/or fieldwork investigations. Note: Colleges may ask to see your lab notebooks and reports before granting you credit.
AP Exam
The AP Environmental Science Exam will test your understanding of the environmental concepts covered in the course units, as well as your ability to design research studies to solve environmental problems. Calculators are permitted for use in all sections of the exam.
Exam Duration - 2 hours, 40 minutes