Text: Biology; Miller and
Levine, Pearson Education;
Purpose: This is a basic course in the study of life science for the college-bound student. The approach is from the perspective of molecular biology and focuses on structures such as cells and genes and the processes related to them. Emphasis is also placed on the human organism including basic biology and physiology.
Objectives: During this course the student will:
Ø -develop hypotheses and draw conclusions
Ø
-understand major
biological concepts and theories
Ø
-understand the
relationship in the biological world between structure and function
Ø
-appreciate the
diversity of living systems
Ø
-read and critique scientific articles
Ø -understand the personal, social, and ethical implications of biology and biotechnology
Ø
-be inspired to pursue
their science education beyond the requirements for this course
Materials required: (for every
class) text, computer, notebook, folder or
binder for handouts, colored pencils, #2 pencils, pens (blue or black ink
only).
Computer Issues
You should bring your computer to
class everyday. Without your computer
you are not prepared for class, not being prepared for class will affect you
class work grade. When in Biology your computer will be used for Biology only.
Using your computer for personal use other than Biology will result in the loss
of the privilege of having your computer in class affecting your class work
grade.
Attendance policy
Ø
Students are expected
to be in class, on time, every day.
Tardiness will result in detention.
Ø
If a student is absent
from class for one day, she is not excused from any work due on her
return; this includes tests, quizzes and other assignments. If you have only been absent the day of the
test you should be prepared the day you return to school for the make up.
Ø
See me on the first
day of your return to school to schedule a time for your make up.
Ø
Make up work for
longer absences will be arranged on a case-by-case basis.
Ø
The student is
responsible for getting all missed notes and assignments, preferably from a
classmate.
Ø
All homework
assignments are to be handed in class. Assignments that are checked but not
graded will not be accepted late. However, in the event of an “unforeseen
circumstance” that results in your inability to complete
your homework one homework pass will be allowed each marking
period. A homework pass is a half sheet
of paper with your name, date, and assignment not completed written on it. It should be given to me on the day the
assignment is due. No questions will be
asked and the missing assignment will not be held against you.
Ø
A homework pass cannot
be used for lab reports, projects, or any graded assignments.
Ø
For each day a graded assignment is late 10 points
will be deducted from your grade. 10 points will be deducted from assignments
passed in after class.
Ø
All late assignments
must be handed to me directly or will result in a further deduction of points.
Extra Help
I am available most days after
school. If you are planning to come it
is best be let me know in advance, this helps to eliminate the possibility of
us missing each other.
Grades in this class will be
weighted as follows:
Ø
Tests 40%
Ø
Quizzes 20%
Ø
Lab reports and other
projects 25%
Ø
Homework and Class
work 15%
Course
Outline
Ø
What is Science?
Ø
The Scientific Method
Ø
Introduction to
Chemistry
Ø
The Chemical Basis of
Life
Ø
Cell Structure and
Function
Ø
Photosynthesis
Ø
Cellular Respiration
Ø
Cell Growth and
Division
Ø
Introduction to
Genetics
Ø
DNA/RNA
Ø
Genes and Chromosomes
Ø
Human Heredity
Ø
Evolution: Evidence of Change
Ø
Classification System
I reserve the right to make
changes to the course outline at anytime.