Weston High School · Science Department
Environmental Science
Environmental Science is the study of how the natural world works, how humans interact with it, and how our choices shape the future. In this inquiry-based, phenomenon-driven course, students investigate real environmental questions, work with evidence and data, and build explanations the way scientists do.
Whenever possible, we will use Weston and the natural environment of Connecticut as an extension of our classroom, connecting course concepts to the world around us.
How We Will Learn
This course emphasizes figuring things out rather than simply memorizing facts. Using an inquiry-based approach, students ask questions, analyze evidence, develop and revise models, discuss ideas, and apply what they learn to environmental issues that affect their communities and the world. Selected OpenSciEd investigations, phenomena, and inquiry-based approaches are adapted throughout the course.
The course is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), which emphasize the skills scientists actually use:
- Asking scientific questions
- Developing and using models
- Analyzing evidence and data
- Constructing explanations
- Communicating scientific ideas
- Evaluating possible solutions
What We Will Explore
Environmental Science is about understanding how the natural world works, how humans interact with it, and how we can make informed decisions about environmental challenges. Throughout the year, students will investigate real-world environmental issues through hands-on activities, labs, data analysis, discussions, modeling, and problem-solving.
1. Environmental Problem Solving
We’ll begin by exploring what environmental science is and how scientists approach complex environmental problems. Students will consider sustainability, resource use, ecological footprints, and the choices individuals and communities make.
2. Ecosystems & Biodiversity
What makes a healthy ecosystem? Students will investigate biodiversity, relationships among organisms, and why having a variety of species matters for ecosystem stability.
3. Energy in Ecosystems
Where does the energy that supports life come from? We’ll follow energy from the Sun through plants, animals, food webs, and entire ecosystems.
4. Cycling of Matter
Unlike energy, matter gets recycled. Students will investigate how water, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other important materials move through living organisms and the environment.
5. Earth's Ecosystems & Climate
Why is Connecticut covered in forests while other parts of Earth are deserts, grasslands, or tundra? Students will explore how sunlight, temperature, water, geology, and Earth's systems interact to create different climates and ecosystems.
6. Evolution, Adaptation & Species Interactions
Why are organisms suited to particular environments? Students will investigate natural selection, adaptation, competition, cooperation, and the many relationships that connect species within an ecosystem.
7. Populations & People
Why do some populations grow while others decline? Students will explore carrying capacity, limiting factors, population growth, human population trends, and how growing populations affect resources and ecosystems.
8. Climate Change
How do we know Earth's climate is changing? Students will examine evidence, analyze climate data, investigate greenhouse gases and Earth's energy balance, and consider the environmental consequences of a changing climate.
9. Human Impacts & Sustainability
We’ll finish the year by examining how humans use Earth's resources and how our choices affect air, water, land, and ecosystems. Students will investigate pollution, resource management, sustainability, and possible solutions to environmental challenges.
Course Information & Syllabus
Welcome to Environmental Science! Understanding the natural world, how humans impact environmental systems, and how our choices shape the future is more important than ever. Throughout this course, you will investigate complex environmental challenges — both natural and human-caused — and use evidence to better understand their causes and consequences. You will be challenged to think critically, consider different perspectives, and explore practical strategies for preventing or solving environmental problems.
Contact Information
- Mr. Wiegand — Room H-5
- chandlerwiegand@westonps.org
- ext. 4805
- Available to meet before school (7:30–7:45am) and after school until 3:00pm each day (except Thursday faculty meetings), or by appointment.
Where to Find Assignments
Homework, class materials, and announcements are posted in Google Classroom. If you are absent, check Google Classroom first — there is also a folder with all class notes taken on the smartboard, which is a good reference when you miss class.
Grade Determination
A+ = 97–100
A = 93–96
A- = 90–92
B+ = 87–89
B = 83–86
B- = 80–82
C+ = 77–79
C = 73–76
C- = 70–72
D+ = 67–69
D = 63–66
D- = 60–62
F = 59% or below
Each quarter grade is valued at 20% of the final grade. The midterm and final exam grades are each worth 10% of the final grade.
A total point system will be used, with tests, quizzes, investigations, and assignments given different values based on the size or intensity of the assessment.
Assignments
- All assignments are due at the start of class and must be neat and legible.
- Late policy: 10% will be deducted for each class-meeting day that an assignment is late — 10% for the first day late, 20% for the second day, and so on. You will receive a zero on the assignment if it has already been returned to the class. The only exception is for excused absences.
- Check Google Classroom if you are absent — “I didn’t know we had homework” is not a valid excuse. Assignments will likely be posted on a weekly basis as we get a handle on the pace of the course.
Class Expectations
- Behave appropriately and show respect to others in the classroom. Rudeness or bullying of any kind will not be tolerated.
- Be on time! That means being prepared (pencils sharpened and water bottles filled) and in your seat by the time the second bell rings. Tardies will result in detentions and loss of points toward your participation grade.
- Pay attention in class: take notes and be ready to participate. You are responsible for all material covered in class.
- Ask questions! If you have a question, there is a good chance someone else in the class is thinking the same thing. I will do my best to answer all questions, but sometimes we may need to address them at a later time. Be proactive about seeking help as needed.
- Do not pack up before the bell rings. Many times you or your classmates will be concluding the lesson, and it is rude and distracting if people are halfway to the door.
- Cheating will not be tolerated and will result in a zero for any parties involved. See the student handbook for more information.
Things to Leave at Home or in Your Locker
- No food.
- Drinks only in closable containers. No cans.
- Cell phones — simple: they’re not allowed. They will be confiscated and will result in loss of points toward your participation grade. The same rules apply to laptops and other devices. Any device should be used for classwork and nothing else.
Materials
- A charged Chromebook or laptop, and charger
- A notebook or binder for Environmental Science
- Pens and pencils
- Access to the course textbook at home
- Appropriate clothing and footwear on days when we work outdoors
Advance notice will be given whenever special clothing, footwear, or other materials are needed.
Textbook
Withgott, J. 2011. Environmental Science: Your World, Your Turn. Pearson Education, Inc.
You can bring the book home and keep it there. We may assign homework from the text; it will be an important reference throughout the year.
Absence
If you are absent, it is your responsibility to email me and see me.
- Please see me if a problem arises or you need extra help catching up. I do try to be accommodating, but I cannot read minds — I need you to keep me informed of any concerns.
- If you miss a test or quiz, see me as soon as possible to reschedule.
- For an excused absence, you will have one day per day absent to complete any missed assignments. See me for special consideration of extenuating circumstances.
- An unexcused absence will result in a zero for any work missed that day.
Lab & Outdoor Procedures
- Safety goggles and gloves must be worn when handling all chemicals, unless directed otherwise by your instructor.
- Dangerous or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. You may receive a zero for improper behavior.
- You are responsible for the safety of your lab group.
- All stations must be neat and clean before leaving.
- We will sometimes work at various points on campus, and potentially off campus. Be prepared for weather and wear appropriate shoes and clothing — I will always let you know ahead of time when we plan to be outside. Students who leave an outdoor learning area without permission may receive no credit for work completed during that activity.
Portrait of the Environmental Science Graduate
Weston High School’s Portrait of the Graduate names six broad competencies: Thinks Critically, Cares for Others, Solves Problems, Cares for Self, Communicates with Purpose, and Expresses Creativity. This course gives students regular opportunities to practice those competencies through the lens of environmental science.
Systems Thinker
Analyze interactions between Earth’s spheres.
Evidence-Based Researcher
Translate data and evidence into clear, impactful explanations.
Culturally Aware Collaborator
Gather and value diverse perspectives when approaching environmental questions.
Accountable Steward
Commit to sustainable resource management from local to global levels.
Agile & Resilient Decision Maker
Navigate ecological uncertainty with tenacity and ethical responsibility.
Questions about the course?
Students and families are welcome to reach out any time, or browse classroom resources and materials.