JERICHO HIGH SCHOOL

AP BIOLOGY

CLASS EXPECTATIONS
MRS. HEMPEL
2015-2016
***Overview
AP Biology is an introductory college-level Biology course. Students
will cultivate their understanding of Biology through inquiry-based
investigations as they explore the following topics: Evolution, cellular
processes of energy and communication, Genetics, information transfer,
Ecology and interactions. These topics are based on four Big Ideas and
seven Science Practices. They are .
Big Ideas:
1. The process of evolution explains the diversity and unity of life.
2. Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to
grow, to reproduce, and to maintain dynamic homeostasis.
3. Living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information
essential to life processes.
4. Biological systems interact, and these systems and their interactions
possess complex properties.
Science Practices:
1. Use representations and models to communicate scientific phenomena
and solve scientific problems.
2. Use mathematics appropriately.
3. Engage in scientific questioning to extend thinking or to guide
investigations within the context of the AP course.
4. Plan and implement data collection strategies in relation to a particular
scientific question.
5. Perform data analysis and evaluation of evidence.
6. Work with scientific explanations and theories.
7. Connect and relate knowledge across various scales, concepts, and
representations in and across domains.

***Materials
3-ring binder with loose leaf paper for note-taking, quad-ruled composition
notebook for laboratory work, flash memory stick, 4 color click pen
***Grade Determination
1) Tests: 65% There will be 3 exams per quarter with one midterm at the
end of the second quarter.
2) Quizzes 25% Pop quizzes will be given periodically. You need to be
prepared every day you come to class by completing daily homework
assignments.
3) Laboratory Notebook 10% Your lab notebook will be checked several times
throughout the quarter.
***Laboratory
You will be required to complete 8 labs set forth by the College Board
Advanced Placement Program. These labs promote critical thinking, active
learning and collaboration. The focus is not on achieving predetermined
results but on making your own observations, raising questions and
strategizing on how to investigate further. YOUR DAILY ATTENDANCE IS
CRITICAL.
***General Course Policies

Homework is critical to prepare for the next days lesson.

If you are absent the day of a test, you MUST take the makeup the
morning you return to school.
Be prepared every day. Get used to homework every day.
We will be working through material at a fast pace. YOUR DAILY
ATTENDANCE IS CRITICAL.
Participation in discussion, a well-organized notebook and daily
preparation will all be beneficial to your success in AP Biology.

***Extra Help
Mrs. Hempel is available most days during period 2 (except Wednesdays and
some Fridays)
***Website Information

Bookmark this site: www.hempel.weebly.com for updated information on

assignments, slide notes, video links, contacting Mrs. Hempel and more.