An Inquiring Mind

Environmental science is the combination of science, social sciences, and the humanities.  In this course students will study the tools of environmental science, ecology, populations, water, air, and land systems and resources, mineral and energy resources, human health, and the future of the human population on earth.  We will also discuss current events as they happen and students will have the opportunity to learn soft-skills like research, planning a project, interviewing experts in their fields, and presenting their findings.

This live online environmental science class teaches students not only about earth science, but also about the human impact on our earth. I specifically plan projects so students get an opportunity to reach out to members of their community who can teach the student and make connections that will hopefully continue even after the class ends as the student continues to find ways to participate in their community.

What is environmental science?

Considering Enrollment?

Class Structure

At Aim Academy Online we use Canvas as our learning management system (LMS) and have the enterprise version, which affords us lots of great features to make student learning better. All student work and communication is conducted through the course shell on Canvas. Canvas can be accessed using any browser and also has companion apps for tablets and phones. Within Canvas, students will learn through multiple ways including visual, auditory, and tactile. I strive to provide a learning environment that is successful regardless of your personal learning style and provide a lot of flexibility as far as how to learn the content of the course.

Live Classes

Each week we will have a 1-hour live class session (optional), during which we will review concepts, answer questions, and explore the topics together. We often have an opportunity to participate in discussions and play games during our live class. This time is not part of the student’s grade, but gives a much needed opportunity to meet other students in the class and learn from each other. The students I teach hail from around the country (and sometimes around the world) and bring their unique perspective to the many issues we discuss in class. While many difficult topics are discussed, I encourage students to learn to respectfully disagree and voice their opinions in a safe environment. I encourage all students to attend the live classes if possible, but if they cannot make them due to other commitments, they are required to watch the class recording.

Required Materials

• Writing instruments: color nonspecific; HOWEVER, please do not write in highlighter
• Notebook
• Calculator
• Textbook
• High speed, broadband Internet
• Sound card and microphone (for live sessions)
• Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures

Additional books and resources may be recommended during the year. A lab material list is available below.

Grading

1. Readings and Practice: 50%
2. Labs: 15%
3. Quizzes and Projects: 25%
4. Student Professionalism: 10%

Extra Credit will be available at the teacher’s sole discretion and is NOT guaranteed.

Who Should Enroll?

The qualified student:

• is in 9-12th grades (this is mandated by College Board in order to award AP® credit).
• has taken biology and/or chemistry and scored a B or better. (Recommended, but not required.)
• has completed algebra 1 with a B or better.
• has strong reading and writing skills.
• can work mostly independently and ask for help when necessary.

Starting 2021/2022 there will be an application process to enroll in Environmental Science with Aim Academy Online.

If you don’t think your student meets some or all of these requirements, please contact me to help assess your student.

Like what you see and want to register? Head over to https://debrabell.com/product/environmental-science-online/ to reserve your spot today!