PRE-AP BIOLOGY 2012-2013 Course Description

MRS. DIANA ERNST Room S106

(281-229-6532)

Course Objectives:

  • To understand the basic principles of safety, scientific method, ecology, molecules and cells, heredity, molecular genetics, evolution and classification.
  • To understand the incredible diversity in nature and the importance of the preservation of all life on Earth.
  • To gain an appreciation and understanding of contributions made by scientists in biological studies.
  • Explore career opportunities in the biological sciences.

Materials Required

*paper

*pen/pencil

*LARGE spiral notebook

*1 pkg map pencils

*1 pkg of highlighters

*1pkg of 3 glue sticks

Grading

Tests & Quizzes: 35%

Projects: 10%

Labs: 25%

Homework/Daily Work: 20%

Benchmark: 10%

CLASSROOM RULES CONSEQUENCES

  1. Respect the rights and property of yourself and others. 1. Warning
  2. Enter the classroom prepared to learn. 2. Phone Call Home
  3. Follow instructions the first time they are given. 3. Discipline Referral
  4. Follow all rules and guidelines outlined in the Student Handbook. 4. Office
  5. Follow all classroom procedures.
Laboratory Rules/Procedures
  1. Stay at your assigned lab table during the entire lab.
  2. Wear goggles, aprons and gloves during all labs unless otherwise stated.
  3. Horseplay is not allowed in the lab at anytime.
  4. Clean up your lab area before you return to your seat.
  5. Wash hands thoroughly after all labs.

First Semester Instruction

  • Safety and scientific method
  • Biomolecules
  • Cell structure and function
  • Cellular processes
  • Heredity (DNA/RNA)
  • Cell division (mitosis, meiosis)

Testing Days for Biology

All Biology tests will be given on Wednesday or Thursday. However, quizzes may be given on any given day.

An EOC (end of course exam) is required at the completion of the course. This exam is required by the state and all students must pass this exam in order to graduate.

Late Work

There will be 20 points off for every day an assignment is late. After 5 days the assignment will no longer be accepted.

PROJECTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED LATE. THEY CAN BE TURNED IN BEFORE THE DUE DATE BUT NOT AFTER!! NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE.

Makeup Work

It is your responsibility to ask me for your makeup work the day you return to school.

Please get makeup work before or after school.

Tutorials

Tutorials will be available on Tues. and Thurs. from 2:45-3:15. If this does not work with your schedule, see me to make other arrangements.

Student signature ______

Parent/Guardian signature______