Academic Biology (Level B)
Syllabus
Welcome to Academic Biology (Level B):
My name is Mr. Matthew Nicastro and I will be teaching this year’s Biology course. Below you will find all the information needed to make this year’s class a success. If we all work together, success cannot be too far behind.
Voicemail #: (856) 694 – 0100 ext 328
Email Address:
Program Description:
Academic Biology is a five credit lab science which introduces the students to the basic fundamentals of the biological sciences, with emphasis on classifications, and beneficial/harmful characteristics of each phylum. The cellular basis of living things is emphasized as the unifying principle among living things. Major functional systems such as reproduction, cellular control, photosynthesis, respiration, heredity, evolution, and animal behavior are explored. Major phyla of animals are used to explain and demonstrate these processes. Major units of study include: the history of biology, classification of animals, cytology, and genetics. Knowledge and skills are developed thru laboratory work. Vocabulary and spelling skills related to course terms are developed, and math skills are applied in genetic calculations.
Program Purpose:
This biology course introduces the student to the study of living things. It gives students a basic understanding of life forms from the simplest to the most complex. It helps students gain insight into the idea that all organisms, including themselves, carry out similar life functions. It helps students understand the complex interaction between organisms and their environment. It helps students develop a respect for living things.
Textbook Used:Biology New Jersey Edition (McDougal Littell) 2008
Materials Needed:
Students should have a three ring binder (at least one inch) for handouts and notes, a pack of loose leaf paper (college ruled) OR a notebook (2-3 subject), and a writing utensil (pencil or pen)
Class Rules/Expectations:
1) Be respectful 2) Be on time and prepared to work 3) Try Everyday …. 100%
Grading Policy:
1) Tests/Quizzes: 35% of the grade
- Tests or Quizzes will be given at the end of every unit
- Post Tests will be given at the end of each marking period
- Quizzes will occur at different times throughout the unit and be related to anything done in class
2) Labs: 20% of the grade
- While there is no specific lab day for this class, labswill occur throughout the year
- Reports will be written for all labs
3) Projects: 10% of the grade
- Projects will occur both individually and in groups
- Time in class will be given for both individual and group projects
4) Notebooks: 10% of the grade
- YOU WILL HAVE NOTEBOOK CHECKS (so keep good notes, keep all worksheets, and most importantly keep them in order)
- You can section your notebook in whatever way you would like
5) Homework: 15% of the grade
- Homework will include worksheets, lab reports, questions from the book, and other various assignments
- Homework is due the day after it is assigned unless otherwise stated
- Homework will be graded MOST OF THE TIME on attempt and completion (you don’t have to get the homework all correct to get full credit…just complete it all and attempt to do it)
- DO YOUR HOMEWORK – it’s the easiest percentage of your grade to get
6) Classwork/Groupwork: 10% of the grade
- Small group activities will occur at times during some periods
- Grades for groupwork will be given as a group (so make sure everyone does their part)
- Classwork will be done in class and due at the end of the period
Student Responsibility: It is the responsibility of the student to follow ALL the class rules and expectations, make up any missed work, and be prepared and willing to work everyday in class.
Parent Responsibility: (Yes…you are part of this course too.) It is the responsibility of the parent to ask questions about what he/she did in class, what homework they have, how the course is going, and do they need any extra help with the course. If a problem does arise, no matter how small it might seem, please contact me as soon as possible- DO NOT wait until the very end.
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I have read and understand the above information.
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