• Course Name: General Environmental Science

     
     

    Course Description:

              The General Environmental Science course is based on the Living Environment and the Physical Setting / Earth Science Core Curriculums. The cores incorporate Standard 4 of the commencement level New York State Learning Standards for Mathematics, Science, and Technology; building on the concepts covered in the elementary and intermediate levels. There is heavy emphasis on Standards 1, 2, 6, and 7 (Scientific Explanations; Information Systems; Interconnectedness: Common Themes Optimization; Interdisciplinary: Problem Solving Connections) as well as content material from Standard 4.

     

    Course Content:

              The course emphasizes an in depth understanding of major concepts rather than memorization of science facts. Key topics covered include: Ecology and Ecosystems; Populations; Environmental Changes and Evolution; Air, Land and Water; Pollution; Biodiversity and Food; Energy Resources; and Technology. The course is designed to be a rigorous, hands-on, science course that will prepare students for Regent level courses.  

     

    Course Requirements:

              The course culminates with a Local exam. There is no NYSED laboratory requirement to sit for the final exam; but the course must include significant laboratory activities that incorporate scientific inquiry from Standard 1, as part of the course grade.

     

    Credit Requirements:

              A passing grade of 65 or above in the course earns in 1 credit toward the RCSD and NY State graduation requirements for science.