This course is a great alternative for students seeking to further their science education while preparing for university study. Unlike AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics, this course relies heavily on organism-level issues; while APES does use some “micro-science”, its focus is generally considered on a larger scale (organisms, species, environments, etc.). We will use local issues as major course topics (water quality, threatened/endangered species, waste management, land development), and students will be able to participate in a number of optional field trips.

APES is an excellent option for students who have completed biology and chemistry. It is also required that students have completed one year of algebra. top


ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 1, 2 AP (H-P) 11, 12

The Advanced Placement Environmental Science (APES) course is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college course in environmental science. This is a multi-disciplinary science course, blending geology, biology, environmental studies, chemistry, and geography. We will stress scientific principles and analysis as a means of identifying and understanding environmental problems, both natural and human-made. We will evaluate relative risks associated with environmental problems, and will examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. This course is a great alternative for students seeking to further their science education while preparing for university study. Unlike AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics, this course relies heavily on organism-level issues; while APES relies on a great deal of “micro-science”, its focus is generally considered on a larger scale (organisms, species, environments, etc.). We will use local issues as major course topics (water quality, threatened/endangered species, waste management, land development), and students will be able to participate in a number of optional field trips.
Preq: Algebra 1,2; Biology 1,2; Chemistry 1,2
10 units, 2 semesters top

ACADEMY BIOLOGY 1,2 (P) 10, 11, 12
INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL HORTICULTURE 1,2 10, 11, 12
(SBCC: EH 110/111, INTRO TO EH I/II)
As part of the Green Academy’s Green Biology Program, students must enroll in both classes concurrently, during zero and first period. Because these classes have so much content overlap, their combination results in a unique learning experience. These classes are taught by the same teacher, and are held in the same classroom, so the result is a two-hour block of instruction. Over the course of the academic year, students will cover all the requirements for both classes, but by combining the courses, students will be able to participate in more engaging, long-term projects, while allowing our instructor to develop more complex and enriching lessons. Students will study Biology (molecular and cellular science, genetics, heredity, evolution, ecology, and physiology) and Environmental Horticulture (botany, plant husbandry, soil/water management, natural history, ecology, and garden, greenhouse and planting management) within the context of environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to attend field trips, learn from guest lecturers, and receive community service hours.
PREQ: Algebra 1,2 and Chemistry 1,2 strongly recommended.
20 units, 2 semesters (total for both classes)


Green Biology Program

This new program is an exciting alternative to standard Biology classes, with plenty of benefits. Students will:

• Participate in a new learning environment (many of our lectures and labs are taught outdoors, either in the field or in our greenhouse/garden complex).

• Satisfy their high school graduation requirements for Biology/Life Science and also fulfill their optional science requirement, all in one year, in addition to receiving SBCC credit and meeting their university lab science requisite.

• Have the opportunity to satisfy their community service requirements through a series of unique and interesting local environmental projects.

• Maintain a small organic garden, which will provide food for the class, the school, and the community.

• Gain valuable job skills, experience a variety of jobs in environmental and horticultural fields, and connect with numerous employers in the area. top

Ask your counselor about enrolling in this new course. If you have any questions, contact José Caballero or 805 966.9101 x342.

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