Biology 2014-2015

Course Description
Biology is devoted to the study of living things. Throughout the year you will be
challenged to develop scientific process skills, laboratory techniques, and an
understanding of the fundamental principles of living organisms. Students will
explore biological science as a process, cell structure and function, genetics and
heredity, evolution and classification, diversity of living organisms and their
ecological roles, and an introduction to animal structure and function.

Primary Texts
1. The Way Life Works- The Science Lovers Illustrated Guide to How Life Grows
Develops, Reproduces, and Gets Along
By: Mahlon Hoagland and Bert Dodson

2. Biology- Exploring Life (available online- link will be provided on class website)
By: Campbell, Williamson, and Heyden


Materials
1) A three ring binder or folder to keep handouts and notes
2) A spiral notebook or loose leaf notebook paper for taking notes on
reading assignments and in class
3) Calculator- needed occasionally during labs







Grading

Grade Breakdown:
Percent of Total Grade
Reading Quizzes 15%
Labs and Case Studies 20%
Other Assignments/ Projects 15%
Tests 30%
Final Assessment 20%

* A cumulative final exam will be given at the end of both semesters
* All assignments are due at the beginning of the class period and should be
typed, double spaced, and in size 12 font- unless otherwise specified.


Reading Quizzes
Instead of assigned homework questions to accompany class reading, your
comprehension will be assessed through a short quiz given at the beginning of the
following class period. You may use any personal notes that you take while
reading. Be prepared to take your quiz as soon as the bell rings.

Labs/ Case Studies
Labs will take place in the Janeway classroom on Saturdays during our long
block. Attendance during lab days is extremely important as some lab work can
be difficult to make up. An alternative assignment may be required if a lab is
missed.

Case Studies offer a glimpse into the real world applications of biology.
Learning through case studies will require group work and participation. The bulk
of your grade, however, will come from your individual analysis and write-ups.

Classroom Policies
1. Dogs are welcome on regular class days as long as they are not a distraction,
however, please do not bring pets on lab days.
2. You have one day for each excused absence to make-up work for full credit. It
is your responsibility to find out what work was missed during an absence.
3. Late work I will accept work up to one class period after it is due for 90% of
the normal credit.
5. Students are expected to complete their own work. Cheating, copying and
plagiarism are not allowed.
6. Refrain from talking in class after quizzes/tests until all students have finished.
7. Students should be in their seats ready to work when the bell rings.