Introduction to AP Environmental Science

Sep 23, 2024

AP Environmental Science Lecture 1 Notes

Introduction to AP Environmental Science

  • Course focus: Interactions between Earth's systems and human systems.
  • Importance of understanding population pressures on Earth.

Course Structure

  1. Earth Systems
  2. Living Systems
  3. Human Populations
    • Land and water use
    • Energy
    • Pollution and climate change

Key Concepts

  • Sustainability: Understanding boundaries within which human systems can operate without degrading the environment.
  • Example: Easter Island's deforestation leading to population decline.
  • Historical Figure: Rachel Carson, author of "Silent Spring," highlighted the negative impacts of pesticides like DDT.

Science vs. Environmentalism

  • Environmental Science: A scientific method to understand interactions with the environment.
  • Environmentalism: A belief system advocating for environmental protection through policy changes.

Importance of the Course

  • Focus on societal survival rather than just saving the planet.
  • Addressing Planetary Boundaries proposed by Johan Rockström:
    • Climate change
    • Ocean acidification
    • Ozone depletion
    • Biogeochemical cycling
    • Freshwater use
    • Deforestation
    • Biodiversity loss
    • Pollution

Economic Considerations

  • Sustainability solutions must drive economic growth.
  • Ecological Footprint: Developed countries consume more resources than developing countries, leading to increased pressure on the planet.

Course Components

  • Integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
  • Emphasis on practical application of environmental science.
  • Learning through:
    • Investigations
    • Case studies (e.g., Deepwater Horizon oil spill)

AP Exam Overview

Structure:

  1. Multiple Choice
    • 100 questions, 90 minutes
    • Includes discrete questions and larger sets (e.g., maps)
  2. Free Response
    • Data set analysis question
    • Document-based question (e.g., Fremont Gazette article)

Preparation Tips:

  • Analyze data and use mathematics without a calculator.
  • Familiarize with dimensional analysis and scientific notation.

Concept Map Review

  • Environmental Science: Interaction between natural and human systems.
    • Components: Land and water use, energy, pollution, global change.
  • Emphasis on scientific practices throughout the course.