Undecided about AP Environmental Science (APES)

I'm considering taking AP Environmental Science next year but not quite sure yet. For those who've taken it, what's it like? How heavy is the workload and what type of content is covered?

From what I've observed, AP Environmental Science (APES) is considered a relatively engaging and manageable course.

Rather than deep theoretical concepts, the majority of content revolves around understanding and interpreting real-world environmental issues and their implications. Key topics often include biodiversity, pollution, land and water use, and energy resources, among others. This makes it an enriching and appealing option if you have an interest in these areas.

As for the workload, like any AP class, the course will likely require a considerable amount of reading, homework assignments, and lab reports. However, many students find the workload manageable due to the straightforward nature of the material and the real-world application of the topics which helps in understanding the concepts better.

Nonetheless, the workload and difficulty level can depend largely on the specific class structure at your school, the teaching methods of your instructor, and your personal interest in the subject matter. Consequently, you may find it helpful to get feedback from students at your school who have already taken the course, or even consult the teacher who'll be instructing the course.

One fundamental thing to remember is that while APES is sometimes viewed as one of the "easier" AP sciences because it's less math-heavy than say, AP Physics, it still involves a significant amount of memorization and understanding complex environmental systems. Thus, successful students tend to be detail-oriented and have good study habits.

Given how the understanding of environmental science plays an increasingly crucial role in our rapidly changing world, studying APES can provide valuable insights and awareness for your future endeavors, regardless of your ultimate college major or career path.