Mrs. Ashley Dulin-Smithroom: E104/E106

BIOLOGY

Mrs. Ashley Dulin-SmithRoom: E104/E106

E-mail Address: Voice Mail Number: 718-8249

Website- 5th period

Course Description

Biology is a course that introduces the fundamental themes and concepts that are essential in this field of study. The first semester will focus on Cells, Energy and Molecular Genetics. The second semester we will focus on Genetics, Ecology, and Evolution. Throughout these units students will be exposed to the process of science, perform a variety of laboratory techniques, and will be able to relate the content to their own lives. This Biology course has been constructed using state standards to ensure that all students are prepared for the end of course assessment and future science course work.

Textbook: Holt McDougal Biology © 2012 by Stephen Nowicki

Online Textbook and resources:

Login name: ______Password: ______

It is important to do the reading and online activities in order to be successful. These can be accessed from the school library if you do not have internet access at home

Class Expectations:

-You will be expected to do your homework on your own and study on a regular basis. On nights when you don’t have specific assigned homework, you should review class notes and handouts. You will be held accountable for understanding class work and homework and should be prepared for a pop quiz at any time.

-Homework is intended to help you practice concepts and extend your knowledge. It will not always be graded, however you should do every assignment as if it is being graded for correctness. You will get the most out of doing the homework if you make an effort to truly understand concepts while you work!

--Please come in for extra help whenever you need it!!!

Cell phones:

-I should not see your phones or other electronic devices (Kindle, iPad, etc) unless I ask you to get them out for a class activity. Phones are too much of a distraction. Your phone should not be on your desk or lab table.

Do not come up and ask to go the restroom with your phone in hand. Let your friends know that you are unavailable during Biology class. I can tell when you are using your phone under your desk during class and I will take it from you.

-You should not have earbuds or earphones on during class either.

Attendance is important!

-Class attendance is very important. You must be present to do the activities and learn from them!

-When you are absent, it is your responsibility to check the Google Calendar for missed lessons and homework! When you return to class, you should already know what you missed and should have completed any work that was possible for you to complete.

- You should exchange phone numbers with lab partners so that you can contact them if you have questions.

You can also come in before school and discuss missing work with me.

Class Rule: Respect! Treat everyone in the classroom with respect and you will be treated with respect.

Grading Policy: Grades will be earned from the following:

•Quizzes and Tests (60%) We will have periodic pop quizzes!

• Labs and Activities (25%)

•Homework Assignments (15%)

Assignments:

-Due at the beginning of the period on the date due.

-Late assignments will only be accepted for full credit due to excused absences and should be handed in within a period of time equal to the amount of time of the absence.

For example, if you are absent Monday and Tuesday, make up work is due at the start of class Friday.

-Late assignments not due to excused absences will be graded and then 20% of the points possible will be deducted for each day the assignment is late.

-If you know that you will be out for an extended period of time, please see me in advance.

Tests:

-Tests and quizzes will be announced at least three days in advance so that you have time to prepare. (Pop quizzes will occur periodically and are not announced.)

-If you are absent on the day of a test, you will take it on the day of your return.

-Make-up tests may not be the same as the tests given on the scheduled date.

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What you will need:

-3 ring binder or folder : You will need to keep an orderly Biology binder or folder with study guides, lab data, assignments and class notes. Class notes should be reviewed daily. Make sure to contact a fellow student to get the notes if you miss a day.

-Basic supplies: You should have paper and a pen or pencil in class daily. You should have the following supplies at home for use when doing homework: scissors, tape or glue stick, and colored pencils or markers.

-Goggles: You will need approved safety goggles. These can be purchased from the school store. You cannot participate in labs that require goggles unless you have your own pair.

What to bring to class daily: You will be given a study guide for each major unit that we learn. You need to bring your binder containing your study guide and extra paper to class daily along with a pen or pencil. You do not need to bring your book to class every day! You will be told in advance when it will be needed. Leave it in your locker or at home so that you will have access to it when you complete your reading and homework assignments.