Course Description
Environmental Science is a year-long inquiry, and hands-on-laboratory-based science course designed to show thematic connections between a variety of science disciplines including biology, chemistry, geology, botany, ecology, math, toxicology, climatology, astronomy, meteorology, and physics. It gives students a coherent and realistic picture of the applications of a variety of scientific concepts as they manifest in our environment. The aim of this course to increase students’ knowledge of the environmental challenges of today, while continuing to cultivate scientific critical thinking skills, and encourage problem solving.
Course Structure
This course will cover 5 thematic units covering the 4 spheres of the planet: The Lithosphere, The Atmosphere, The Biosphere and The Hydrosphere. Each sphere of the earth will be explored and investigated, including humans’ impact on each, using a variety of instructional methods, including a flipped classroom where students will use the textbook, digital notebooks, videos, video lectures, and web links to learn about the topics. Live classes will be for demos, labs and mini-labs, and discussion sessions. Outside of class, work will consist of case studies, video questions (using Edpuzzle), notes from video lectures, online labs, and readings from the textbook. Students should expect to do 5-7 hours on assignments per week. Most assignments will be due weekly, with some having longer dues dates. Quizzes will be weekly, and tests will be given at the end of each unit. Students will complete most assessments on Canvas or Quizziz. Students are expected to participate in and complete all aspects of required work to the best of their ability. Student achievement will be evaluated in a holistic manner, considering all aspects performance.
Who should enroll?
This class is for students in grades 9th-12th, 8th graders with prior permission from the instructor.
Technology Requirements
- High speed, broadband Internet
- Sound card and microphone (for live sessions)
- Streaming video capabilities to watch video lectures and other videos as assigned
- Computer Access
- Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint or Google Docs, Sheets and Slides Access
- Printer
- Scanner/Ability to scan with phone or tablet
Supply List
- Scientific Calculator (does NOT need to be a graphing calculator)
- A 100-sheet graph paper notebook
- Pen/pencils
- Colored Pencils/Markers
- Tape – double-sided as well as clear tape
- Scissors
- Index Cards
- Post-it Notes
Evaluation and Feedback
All grades will be available in Canvas for students and parents. Assignments will be graded within one week of submission. Students will be evaluated through performance on quizzes & tests, mini-laboratory investigations, formal lab reports, homework, and independent projects. A progress report will be given mid-semester and at the end of a semester. Parent conferences are available upon request. Quizzes & Tests will comprise 30% of the total points, Labs & Mini-Labs 30%, Homework 30%, and Projects 10%.
Communication
Parents and students may contact me through Canvas. I will respond within 48 hours to all communications. Please do not hesitate to contact me or ask questions.
Debra –
I highly recommend Kristen Lauria’s environmental science class for interested students. This course is extremely thorough. The labs are interesting and further enhance a student’s knowledge of environmental science. Nature walks are incorporated into the labs so students are able to connect with their environment and learn about the many issues affecting our environment today. A student who enjoys engaging with nature while learning about the environment will really enjoy this class.
Emily Crawford –
Mrs. Lauria is an excellent teacher. My daughter, a Senior in high school, has gained a rich understanding of environmental issues from a balanced perspective. This well-designed class has engaging discussions, purposeful assignments, thought-provoking projects, and stimulating labs. In addition, homeschooling high school science can be challenging, and Mrs. Lauria understands this. She listens well to her students’ needs and works hard to help them. As a parent, I have been grateful for a solid presentation of the material and her quick response to all my questions. For these reasons, I would highly recommend her class.
Parent –
Mrs. Lauria is very knowledgeable in Environmental Science topics. My son looked forward to her class every week. He had since developed an acute sense of awareness in environmental issues and constantly shared his newfound knowledge about biomes, water cycles, tectonic planes, biodiversities, invasive species and the like with us. He even did a science project and presentation on eutrophication at the district’s school on two occasions!
Jann (verified owner) –
Ms. Lauria is a fantastic teacher who never fails to motivate and pique the curiosity of her students. Her class is very engaging with the right amount of assignments and lab work. My son highly recommends this course to anyone who would like to broaden their experience and knowledge in environmental science.
Rebecca Klabunde (verified owner) –
My son very much enjoys this new class! Mrs. Lauria is prompt in all communication, organized in her assignments, and makes her students feel comfortable in class discussion – making her a great teacher. We both highly recommend this course!
Hollyn Martin (verified owner) –
We were so excited about the addition of this class for my high school son. He has been very engaged in the material and finds it to be very relevant for life and for his educational goals. It has challenged him and I have seen wonderful growth since it began in the Fall.