Students will explore foundational concepts in environmental science with a focus on ecosystems, human impacts, sustainability, and environmental justice. Through a combination of classroom instruction and local field experiences, students will learn how natural systems function and how communities like Holyoke interact with and depend on their environment. This course emphasizes hands-on investigation, critical thinking, and real-world application.

Competencies and Related Attainments:

• Applied Scientific Reasoning:
  Develop and test hypotheses through direct observation and data collection. Analyze patterns in ecosystems, evaluate environmental challenges, and apply scientific thinking to explore both natural systems and human interventions.
• Environmental Awareness:
  Examine how environmental issues are interconnected with social, economic, and political systems. Practice identifying root causes of environmental harm, explore sustainable solutions, and reflect on your own role in fostering environmental justice.
• Effective Communication:
  Build your ability to communicate findings and ideas clearly in writing, discussion, and presentations. Engage in respectful dialogue around controversial topics, interpret and share scientific data, and express well-supported perspectives on real-world environmental issues.

Cell Phone Policy:
Students may use their cell phones during class as a tool to engage in learning relevant to the class (but not otherwise).