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Course Title: Introduction to Environmental Science
Course Code: ENV 101
Term: Fall 2025
Credits: 3
Mode: In-person, Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Building A, Room 204
Instructor Information
• Professor: Dr. Jane Smith
• Email: [email protected]
• Office: Room 312, Science Building
• Office Hours: Wednesdays 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM or by appointment
• Teaching Assistant: John Lee ([email protected])
• TA Office Hours: Fridays 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Course Description
This course introduces fundamental concepts in environmental science, including ecosystems, biodiversity,
pollution, climate change, and sustainability. Students will explore scientific principles and current
environmental challenges through lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities.
Prerequisites
None. Open to all undergraduate students.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
1. Describe the structure and function of ecosystems.
2. Analyze human impacts on natural environments.
3. Explain key concepts related to climate change and pollution.
4. Evaluate sustainability practices and policies.
5. Conduct basic environmental data collection and analysis.
Course Schedule & Topics
Week Dates Topics Readings & Assignments
1 Sept 2, 4 Introduction to Environmental Science Chapter 1 (Textbook), Syllabus Review
2 Sept 9, 11 Ecosystems and Biodiversity Chapter 2, Quiz 1 (Sept 11)
3 Sept 16, 18 Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycles Chapter 3, Lab 1 Assigned
4 Sept 23, 25 Human Population & Impact Chapter 4, Discussion Post Due Sept 25
5 Sept 30, Oct 2 Pollution and Waste Management Chapter 5, Lab 1 Due Oct 2
... ... ... ...
14 Dec 2, 4 Climate Change & Sustainability Chapter 13, Final Project Assigned
15 Dec 9, 11 Review & Final Exam Preparation Review Materials
Assessment and Grading
Assessment Type Weight (%) Due Date / Notes
Quizzes (3 total) 15 Weekly, first quiz Sept 11
Labs (3 total) 25 Lab reports due throughout term
Midterm Exam 20 Oct 16
Final Project (Presentation + Report) 25 Presentation Dec 9, Report Dec 11
Participation & Attendance 15 Ongoing
Required Materials
• Textbook: Environmental Science: A Global Concern (14th Edition) by Cunningham & Cunningham
• Access to course LMS (for readings, assignments, announcements)
• Scientific calculator (recommended)
Policies
• Attendance: Expected at all classes; more than 3 unexcused absences may affect participation
grade.
• Late Work: 10% penalty per day late unless prior arrangement is made.
• Academic Integrity: Strictly enforced according to university policy.
• Accommodations: Contact Disability Services for support.
Sample Instructor Notes and Lesson Plan
Course: ENV 101 – Introduction to Environmental Science
Week 2: Ecosystems and Biodiversity
Date: Tuesday, Sept 9
Duration: 90 minutes
Learning Objectives
• Define ecosystem and biodiversity
• Explain the roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers
• Understand the importance of biodiversity for ecosystem health
Lesson Outline
Time Activity Details / Notes
10 min Introduction & Review Brief recap of last class; overview of today’s topic
25 Lecture: Ecosystem
Explain biotic/abiotic factors, food chains/webs, energy flow
min Components
Ask students for local ecosystem examples; discuss biodiversity
15 min Class Discussion
threats
20
Interactive Activity Group exercise: Build a simple food web using provided cards
min
15 min Quiz 1 (Short) 5 questions on key terms and concepts
5 min Wrap-up & Preview Summarize key points; preview next class on energy flow
Teaching Tips
• Use visuals and diagrams to illustrate food chains and webs.
• Encourage students to share personal experiences with local environments.
• Monitor group activity to ensure all participate.
• Address common misconceptions about biodiversity (e.g., more species always means better
ecosystem).
Materials Needed
• PowerPoint slides for lecture
• Food web cards for group activity (printouts)
• Quiz handouts or LMS quiz setup
Behind-the-Scenes Notes