BIOLOGY
2010-2011
Teacher: Mrs. Amanda Stinebaugh E-mail:
Phone: (785) 869 - 3355 ext. 430
Class Description: A combination of coursework, hands-on activities, and labs that will enable the student to develop an understanding of the cell, molecular basis of heredity, biological evolution, interdependence of organisms, matter, energy, organization in living systems, and the behavior of organisms.
Class Objectives:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the structure and function of a cell.
Specialized structures with specific functions
Chemical reactions involved in cell functions
Replication as a result of information stored in DNA and RNA
Plant cells and their structure
Differentiation of cells
2. Demonstrate an understanding of chromosomes, genes, and the molecular basis of heredity.
Genetic material consists of DNA and RNA coded with specific instructions
Chromosomes
Heredity information is contained in genes
Gametes carry the genetic information to the next generation
Mutations
3. Understand biological evolution.
Definition and history
Natural selection, genetic drift, and various mechanisms of genetic change
Biodiversity
Variations of organisms between populations
Primary mechanism for evolution
4. Understand interdependence of organisms and the interaction with the physical
environment.
Atoms and molecules
Energy
Life cycles - water, nitrogen, carbon, oxygen
Carrying capacity of populations and their distributions
Competition
5. Understand matter, energy, and organization in living systems.
Living systems require input of energy to maintain chemical and physical
organization
Primary source of energy for life
Food contains biochemical energy that is available through cellular respiration
6. Understand behavior of animals.
Behavior responses to internal changes and to external stimuli
Nervous systems and their function
Behaviors are adaptive
7. Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of structure and function in organisms.
Identify characteristics of life forms
Homeostasis
Life cycles and developmental stages
Division of labor into specific body systems - respiration, digestion, nervous,
endocrine, excretion, circulatory, reproductive, immune, skeletal and muscle
Taxonomy of organisms
Assignments and Grading:
Assignments will be discussed in further detail when they are assigned. Your grade is based on the following grade scale.
100% - 90% = A 89% - 80% = B 79% - 70% = C 69% - 60% = D 59% - 0% = F
Anyone caught cheating will get an automatic zero for the assignment or tests.
NO EXCEPTIONS!!!
Late Assignments:
All assignments are due on the date given when assigned. If you should happen to turn it in late the following will apply unless prior arrangements have been made.
1 day late ------50% of grade earned
2 days late ------0%
Attendance and Preparation Policy:
Attendance is very important. Each day will build upon the next. When a day is missed it only hurts your education. If you know you are going to be gone, you should make arrangements before the scheduled day. Excused absences will be issued the number of days allowed by the school policy in order to get the work handed in for full credit. Tardies will be considered for each circumstance, unless they are disruptive or excessive.
Students are expected to bring all related materials to class. If materials are left at home or forgotten, consequences of one detention per incident could be issued for repeated offenses.
Participation and Leave Policy:
Students will be called on randomly or as needed to ensure each student is being productive and/or understanding the material to the fullest extent. If considerations need to be made, please see me before there is a problem.
Leaving the classroom will only be permitted when it is not disruptive to class and in accordance to school policy. The passing periods should be used for restroom breaks and/or office visits. Exceptions can be made when it is needed.
Classroom Rules:
1. Be honest. Do not cheat. Ask for assistance if it is needed.
2. Be on time. Class will start immediately following the bell.
3. Be respectful to the teacher and your classmates.
4. Be courteous. Do not bother your classmates. Excessive talking will be dealt with.
5. No cell phones, head phones, or other electronic devises. It will be taken and given to the office. For more information, read your student handbook.
6. All purses or book bags should be left in your lockers or put on the side counter upon entering the classroom.
Consequences:
All behaviors and actions have consequences. Depending on the issue and occurrence, consequences may
or may not be issued in the given order.
1. Detention (15 minutes after school. Morning detentions are not an option.)
2. Double Detention
3. Referral form to the principal .
4. Phone call to parents about behaviors.
All Central Heights Staff Members strongly believe in good communication between parents and students. If at anytime you feel there is an issue, feel free to talk openly with me. The only way to address a problem responsibly is to approach it together.