BIOLOGY SYLLABUS

Ms. Butts at Clarke County High School

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COURSE DESCRIPTION: Biology is the science that studies living things. This laboratory-based course focuses on the process of scientific investigation through the study of living things and the world in which we live.

OBJECTIVES: As a student you will be exposed to new scientific language and concepts, technology, and research. You will actively participate in laboratory investigation using the scientific method to help you develop or strengthen scientific attitudes and interests. You will be encouraged and guided towards taking more independent responsibility in your own learning, which will prepare you for college or a career.

CLASSROOM RULES – 5 P’s

  1. Be Prompt – Be in your assigned seat before the bell rings. Meet deadlines.
  2. Be Prepared – Bring necessary materials, including homework. Study for tests.
  3. Be Polite – Respect school property and those around you. Discipline yourself so others don’t have to!
  4. Be Productive – Participate arduously in all class activities. Follow instructions. Use your time and energy wisely. Finish all work. Everything has its time!
  5. Be Positive – My expectations for you are to: set high academic and personal goals, be a problem solver, help others, and ask for help when necessary.

REQUIREMENTS:

  1. Attend class daily
  2. Pay careful, intelligent attention in class
  3. Participate in class activities by asking questions, contributing to class discussions, and performing laboratory exercises.
  4. Take detailed notes during lectures and the playing of videos.
  5. Pay careful attention to the completion of all readings and homework assignments.
  6. Spend extra time to complete lab work/projects after school

Grading Policy/Standards / Class Materials
Your grades are based on the point system and equal the following percentages:
  • Tests/Quizes (50%)
  • Science Notebook (30%)
  • Lab Reports (10%)
  • Participation (10%)
At the end of each quarter, you will have an End of Quarter Test (EQT) that will count 25% of your overall quarterly average. / - Textbook will be provided, but you are responsible for any damage. I recommend a book cover.
- Three ring biology binder (2 or 3 inch)-organized as indicated with all previous and current assignments inside
- Dividers
- Color pencils
- Lined paper & pens
- 3 rolls of paper towels
- disinfecting wipes

SUCCESS: I am responsible for providing you with multiple ways to learn the material, but ultimately you are responsible for your own learning and success. Find ways to help yourself. Your classwork and keeping an organized notebook are essential to success. If you are doing your part and still feel behind, I am available to help you most days after school.

Late Assignments: Not accepted (extreme circumstances = exceptions at my discretion)

ABSENCES: CANNOT BE AFFORDED. Numerous ongoing projects/lab activities are planned in this class and absences will jeopardize your success. It is your responsibility to find out about missing work. ASK a classmate or the teacher before or after class. Do not interrupt class time.

TARDIES: The school tardy policy is strictly enforced in my classroom.

*Challenge yourself everyday. YOU are a Biology !

SCHEDULE:

Date / Topic
Week 1 / Intro to Biology / Scientific method / Lab Equipment & Safety
Week 2 / Levels of organization / Cell features
Week 3 / Biochemistry / Cell Transport
Week 4 / Cell Energy / Photosynthesis / Respiration
Week 5 / DNA / Chromosomes / Protein Synthesis
Week 6 / Cell Division / Mitosis / Meiosis
Week 7 / Mendel’s Genetics / Heredity
Weeks 8 - 9 / Review and 9-week assessment (EQT)
Week 10 / Levels of Ecological organization
Week 11 / Biogeochemical Cycles / Biomes
Week 12 / Natural Selection / Adaptations
Week 13 / Taxonomy / Classification
Week 14 / Plants
Week 15 / Invertebrate Animals (with dissections)
Week 16 / Vertebrate Animals (with dissections)
Week 17 -18 / Review and 9-week assessment (EQT)

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Dear parents/legal guardians

I welcome you and your son/daughter in my classroom. Please read this syllabus with your child, sign it and return it. If you have concerns or questions, PLEASE contact me through the school (phone or email). Students please bring this syllabus signed and show it to me for credit. This syllabus must remain in your Biology binder at all times.

Student’s name ______Date ______Block ____

I have read the course syllabus and agree to pledge all my support and cooperation in urging my son/daughter to comply with the above requirements, rules, and policies.

Parent Name ______Best time to call ______

Parent/Guardian Signature______Daytime phone #______