Syllabus

2018-2019

Course / Content Area: Biology

Description: This is a general science course designed to examine aspects of the living world. An effort will be made to survey as much material as possible due to the fact that this is an introductory biology course for all higher ­level, college preparatory biology courses. Students will be exposed to a wide range of topics from beginning cell biology/biochemistry and genetics, to taxonomy and ecology. Lab time will be spent doing inquiry labs and activities along with using the microscope.

INSTRUCTIONAL GOALS:

Students will be challenged to develop scientific thinking, reading , writing , and numeracy skills throughout the course year. Class time will be spent with group discussion and collaboration. Be prepared to go outside, even when it is snowy and cold!

COURSE SCHEDULE

Daily Schedule

10-15 minutes - Warm Up; real life science (articles, word problems, studies) new idea or science concept presented, discussion - record in biology journal

25 minute - Lesson - Mon. - Thurs.

• Outside nature sit spot journaling
• Projects
• Video
• Lab time

Fri; quiz, review

10-15 minutes - Wrap Up; journal, independent work, science games

Calendar of Topics and Projects

Aquatic Ecosystems (Weeks 1-5)

Terrestrial Ecosystems (Weeks 6-10)

Evolution (Weeks 11-15)

Human Body and Dissection (16-20)

Microbiology (Weeks 21-25)

Genetics (Weeks 26-30)

Student Driven Learning/Pop Science (Weeks 31 - 35)

Student Driven Learning/Pop Science (Weeks 36 -40)

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

General Rules:

• Students are permitted to miss no more than 15 classes for the semester - all absences beyond this point must be made up before or after school, 5 tardies = 1 absence
• Students must use art supplies correctly and with respect
• Respectful and kind behavior and language is expected at all times, students will be asked to the class if this does not happen
• If students miss days, they must talk with teacher about making up all assignments

Grading Policies:

When students are absent, they are expected to make up all work they missed within 5 class days of their return to school.