Greenall High School
“Home of the Griffins”
Biology 30
Course Outline
Teacher: Mr. C. Lechner
Email:
Term: Semester 1, 2010-2011
Room: 115
Phone: 771-2566
Course Overview
Welcome to Biology 30! Science is both a body of knowledge and a process, which extends into our everyday lives. In such a society, which is ever changing information-based and increasingly more technological, a scientifically literate society is needed to empower individuals in making informed and rational decisions.
The ultimate aim of the entire Science program is to prepare students in the development of scientific literacy. Through active learning and participation students will be enabled to understand the nature of science and its underlying values, accurately apply appropriate science concepts, principles, laws and theories to the societies and environment around them, use the process of science in problem solving and decision making, develop manipulative skills associated with science and technology, and appreciate the connections between science, technology, society and the environment.
Students will be asked to question, re-examine, re-think, re-conceptualize, explore and evaluate the world around them. Educational Initiatives to be incorporated into programming as appropriate include Factors of Scientific Literacy, Common Essential Learning’s, Adaptive Dimension, Gender Equity, Resource Based Learning, Indian and Metis Content and Perspectives, Multicultural Content, as well as Portrayal of Persons with Disabilities.
Required Units of Study
Chemical Basis of Life (10 hours)
This unit highlights the basic chemistry which the student needs to understand the complex biochemical processes which occur in the cells and in the organs of organisms. The major biochemical processes; polymerization, enzyme catalysis and inhibition, DNA replication, and the transcription of RNA are described.
Cell Structure and Function (10 hours)
This unit covers both the characteristics and the functioning of plant and animal cells, and looks at how we have come to our current understanding of those fundamental entities.
Genetics (20 hours)
This unit introduces the application of probability theory to Mendelian genetics. Consideration of Mendel's laws of heredity and the concept of the gene as a discrete carrier of hereditary information leads to the discussion of chromosomes, genes, and DNA. Both the technical and ethical aspects of genetic engineering and biotechnology are discussed, as is the study of population genetics.
Animal Systems (20 hours)
This unit takes a comparative look at transport, control, and reproductive systems in the Animal Kingdom, concentrating on the human body, is the focus of this unit. The role of the blood circulatory system is the most important element considered under the heading of transport systems. Control over the actions and functions of organisms exerted by the nervous system and the endocrine system are important aspects of the section on control systems. Finally, there is a comparison of asexual and sexual reproduction, and a detailed consideration of human reproduction and reproduction technologies.
Evolution (15 hours)
This unit is a consideration of evidence of evolution, the development of evolutionary theory, and of the mechanisms by which evolution proceeds. This unit completes a circle to Biology 20, and provides opportunities for many connections in learning.
Assessment and Evaluation
Unit Exams – 20%
Formative assignments, labs, etc. – 45%
Final Exam – 30%
Citizenship – 5%
Total – 100%
Student Responsibilities, Routines and Procedures
- To follow Greenall High School’s behavioral expectations and procedures as presented in the Greenall High School Student Handbook. These expectations can be summarized by the following three I statements:
1) I will show respect and consideration to the rights, property and feelings towards others and myself.
2) I will be a committed student in all aspects of my education.
3) I will model a positive and healthy lifestyle through my actions and decisions.
- If absent from class, it is your responsibility to catch up on work missed. If your absence is anticipated, gather work in advance to avoid falling behind.
- To complete all assignments and labs on time. If you hand in an assignment late, late marks will be deducted.
- If absent on the day of a scheduled exam, you will be expected to complete it on the first day you return to school. Parents are required to notify the school of student absence. If you are absent for an extended period of time (5 days or more) due to serious illness, missed exams will be written on a date chosen by Mr. Lechner, allowing reasonable preparation time. If you know in advance that you are going to be absent on the day of a scheduled exam, alternate arrangements must be made beforehand. Students will be given at least one weeks notice for exams. If for any reason class is not held on a scheduled exam date, it will be written on the first day class resumes.
- Labs must be completed by all groups. Respect of equipment and organisms is essential.
- If experiencing difficulties or problems see Mr. Lechner as soon as possible so that he may help you (attend pre-exam, pre-final tutorials)
- Food and drink are not allowed and should not be brought into the biology classroom.
- Seating plans will be used initially then only if necessary, choose whom you work and sit with carefully or the choice may be made for you with or without warning.
- Finally, it is your responsibility to have a great semester!
I have read and I understand the information presented in the outline for Biology 30.
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