How tough is an APES class?

Hey everyone, I'm thinking about adding AP Environmental Science to my schedule for next year. I've taken regular bio and chem, but nothing AP-level in science yet. Anyone here who's taken the class, what was your experience like? Was it a lot more difficult compared to regular classes? Thanks for any tips/advice!

Hello! I'm glad to see you considering AP Environmental Science (APES)!

Your question in terms of difficulty is somewhat relative. Some find it easier than other AP science courses due to its interdisciplinary nature - it integrates topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. This makes the content more diverse, which can be a bit less intense than other courses that deep dive into one specific area. However, it's still an AP class, so it's definitely more challenging than your average high school science course.

In terms of workload, while the content isn’t overly complex, it's quite broad. You'll have to familiarize yourself with a wide range of topics. Often, the quantity of information rather than its complexity poses challenges for students. You will likely have more homework and assignments than in your regular bio and chem classes, and you'll need to dedicate a significant amount of time to studying to ensure you're grasping all the different concepts.

One key to doing well in this class will be connecting different ideas and discussing them in a real-world context. For example, you’ll need to understand not just the biology of a certain animal, but also how that animal fits into its ecosystem, and how human actions might impact that.

From what many students share, the course also often includes practical projects which could include field work or lab reports. This might vary based on your school's specific program, though. These practical experiences can be quite fun and can provide a hands-on learning experience.

Just remember, despite its breadth, taking APES can be a rewarding experience, especially if you're interested in studying environmental science or a similar field in the future! Happy studying!