AP ENVIRONMENTAL MS.CINTRON [email protected] Course Description: This course isdesigned as a first semester, college-level, introductory course in Environmental Science. As such, the breadth and depth of the course material requires students to be conscientious in completing all assignments. The course culminates in the AP Exam in May. Activities include laboratory work, field trips, and a variety of projects and presentations. Field trips are not mandatory, but students are responsible for the material related to that field trip. After the AP Exam, students will be working on projects, due by the date of graduation.
Assessment: Students will be assessed using a variety of methods, including quizzes, unit tests, Free Response Questions (FRQs), lab write ups (group and individual), presentations, article analysis, case studies, projects and textbook work. Standing homework assignment is to read and collect key concepts through proper note-taking within current unit content in textbook, review notes and other information given to you nightly. There will be a 2-period test, approximately every 2-4 weeks. Each test is announced days to weeks in advance, and is worth 100 points. The tests are designed to reflect the level of difficulty of the AP Exam, and are usually in that same format. Tests will be announced at least several days in advance. Calculators may never be used on tests.
Reported grades will be based upon the district’s grading policy. 60% - Assessments: multiple choice quizzes and tests, FRQ’s 15% - Laboratory activities 15% - Class attendance and class participation 10% - Homework
Classroom activities that may be used to assess class participation
Active participation in cooperative group assignments
Works independently when expected to do so
Late Work: Late work will be accepted up to 2 days. Late assignments will earn no higher than a 65. Late homework will not receive credit.
CHEATING OR PLAGIARISM IN ANY FORM WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. IT IS CONSIDERED PLAGIARISM EVEN IF YOU HAVE DONE THE WORK AND GAVE IT TO A CLASSMATE. A ZERO WILL BE GIVEN TO BOTH PARTIES AS A CONSEQUENCE.
Classroom Environment: Given the nature of the course, and the age of the students, I make every effort to treat my students as adults. One of my goals is to provide a rigorous curriculum, but in a relaxed atmosphere, where questions can be asked and ideas shared. Many of the issues included in this course lend themselves to discussions that are often thought-provoking and open to debate. While students may sometimes disagree, I insist on mutual respect and good manners at all times. If the behavior of any student impedes my ability to conduct class activities, that behavior will be addressed, on an individual basis, as required.
* A successful APES student puts in time reading the corresponding book chapters each night to reinforce what is being taught. If you do not put in the time outside of class, you will not be successful in class.
*DO NOT BRING FOOD OR DRINKS TO CLASS!!! This is for your own safety.
Absences: Please consider your academic/personal schedule in reference to scheduled class tests. The lowest test grade will only be dropped if all exams are taken and on the same day they are administered. Projects, labs and assignments given in advance will be expected to be turned in on due date. Prior arrangements should be made to turn these in early if you know you will be absent.
Field Investigations: Lab and field work is an important component of AP Environmental Science. A variety of investigations will be completed throughout the year both on and off campus. It is important that students are present and participate in these opportunities.
Field investigations will include testing soil and water samples, random sampling using quadrats and transects, using seine and kick nets, sieves, core samplers, plankton nets, and keys for collection and identification of biological specimens.
Technology: Much of your projects and other work will be expected to be done using a computer. If you have regular access to a computer and the internet, that will be helpful to you. If you don’t, please let me know and plan your time accordingly in order to use the media center, classroom, or public library computers.
Notebook/Supplies: You will be expected to keep a notebook for the year. Staying organized is the first step to keeping up with your work, learning the content, and ultimately doing well in the class. A three-ring binder (at least 1.5-2inch) with dividers is required. Each divider represents a unit. Within each unit papers will be placed in order by date with a table of contents in the front of each unit. A College ruled composition notebook is required to complete and submit a hand-written "study guide" before each exam.