Loading The VR School
Course Catalog
Section D · Laboratory ScienceUC Honors · +1.0 GPA
Environmental Science
UC A-G approved Environmental Science course delivered fully online. Covers Earth systems, biodiversity, land and water use, energy resources, pollution, and global climate change. Prepares students for AP Environmental Science.
1 Year Online · Remote / Hybrid / In-Person Earth / Environmental Science Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 10 credits
Section DUC A‑G Requirement
Laboratory Science — 2 years required (3 recommended)
Must include at least two of the three foundational sciences: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Each course must have a meaningful lab component. Integrated or interdisciplinary sciences may qualify.
UC Honors Designation
AP Science scores of 3–5 earn 1 extra weighted GPA point and can satisfy university lab science requirements.
Why This Matters for College Admission
Laboratory science demonstrates hands-on analytical skills. Most STEM programs at UC require 3+ years. VR-based lab simulations meet UC lab requirements.
What You'll Learn
Develop deep content knowledge aligned with UC A-G college-preparatory standards
Apply critical thinking and analytical reasoning to real-world scenarios
Practice research, writing, and evidence-based argumentation
Complete authentic assessments demonstrating mastery
Collaborate with peers in project-based and discussion-driven learning
Build a college-ready portfolio artifact and develop AP/IB exam strategies
Course Structure
Semester 1, Unit 1Weeks 1–5
Foundations
- Core vocabulary and concepts
- Foundational skills
- Context-setting activities
Semester 1, Unit 2Weeks 6–12
Core Skills
- Skill-building exercises
- Primary assessments
- Collaborative projects
Semester 2, Unit 1Weeks 13–18
Advanced Concepts
- Deeper conceptual application
- Research and analysis
- Peer-review activities
Semester 2, Unit 2Weeks 19–24
Synthesis & Mastery
- Cross-unit integration
- Final capstone project
- Portfolio submission
Prerequisites & Requirements
Open to qualifying students in grades 9, 10, 11, 12; no prerequisites required
All students complete a placement conversation with our admissions team before enrollment is confirmed. Questions? Contact admissions.