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Biology Course Description
Instructor Information: Carla Schmitt
e-mail
Phone # 262-626-8427 x4157
Textbook: BIOLOGY: The Dynamics of Life
Class Structure: Most learning will take place in class. Therefore students are expected to participate in all learning activities. Learning activities will include labs, activities, videos, Clickers, discussions, review games, etc.
Course Description: Biology is the study of life. In this course we will explore living things at a molecular and cellular level. We will also explore interactions between living things and their environment. An outline of major content and skills covered in this course follows:
Microscopy
o Capture, measure, and label organisms
Ecology
o Describe population changes and factors affecting population size
o Identify and evaluate relationships between organisms
o Describe how abiotic factors affect organisms
Cells
o List the steps in cell reproduction
o Identify the functions of organelles
o Predict how substances will move into and out of cells
Genetics
o Predict genetic outcomes
o Describe steps in protein synthesis
o Relate mutations and genetic disease
Biochemistry
o Compare carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids
o Identify macromolecules in food
o Evaluate factors influencing enzyme activity
Evolution
o Describe the effects of natural selection on populations
o Explain steps in speciation
Classification
o Use and construct a dichotomous key
o Apply genetic similarities to the levels of classification
Microbiology
o Culture and classify bacteria
o Contrast various viral replication methods
o Investigate antibiotic and antiseptic agents
Classroom Guidelines:
1. Supplies – Bring these to class everyday!
· 1” or 1 1/2” 3-ring binder WITH Biology Notebook in it ($2.00 replacement fee)
· Folder (in binder)
· Loose-leaf paper (in binder)
· Textbook
· Pen/pencil
2. Conduct and Class Participation – students and parents are expected to be familiar with the policies in the Student Handbook
· Be Prepared For Class – have your materials with you; be on time; have a good attitude
· Respect – be polite and nice to others; no negative comments toward others; take good care of all equipment; help others learn; don’t disrupt the class; take pride in your work
· Be Productive – use class time wisely; stay organized; ask questions; stay on task
· Attend!! – attendance is the number one reason for poor grades in this course; if you are absent make up your work promptly
3. Grading –
· The grade for this course will be determined by what the student has actually demonstrated that he/she has learned
· Examples of things that will demonstrate learning are: tests, quizzes, lab reports, and independent projects
· Classroom behaviors will be included in the report card. The rubric used for evaluating student behaviors is shown below:
Behavior Rubric
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Behaviors
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4
Consistently
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3
Frequently
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2
Sometimes
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1
Rarely
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0
Never
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Effort
Strives for excellence
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§ Continually tries to improve
§ Completes work
§ Demonstrates perseverance
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Participation
Works in a positive manner
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§ Meaningfully participates in class
§ Demonstrates active listening
§ Cooperates in the classroom
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Respect
Treats others the way they would want to be treated
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§ Demonstrates self-discipline
§ Respects property
§ Demonstrates honesty and integrity
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Responsibility
Does what needs to be done
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§ Meets deadlines
§ Is prepared for class (attitude and materials)
§ Fulfills expectations
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4. Tardiness – per each 9 week semester:
· 1st tardy – warning
· 2nd tardy – 1 minute after class & phone call home
· 3rd tardy + – detention and office referral for possible truancy
5. Miscellaneous
· Food, Beverages, Gum – Food is allowed to be eaten in the room BEFORE the bell rings to start class. No lunch trays are allowed. All garbage must be disposed of properly. Plain water is the ONLY beverage allowed. Gum is allowed as long as it stays in the mouth and is disposed of properly
· Hall Passes – You will be give 3 hall passes for each 9-week semester. Once you use these, no more passes will be given
· Substitute Teachers – class continues when a substitute is here; all classroom rules apply; behavior and cooperation are expected to be excellent.
· Written Work – must be on loose-leaf paper (no fringes); must be legible
· Absences – it is the student’s responsibility to find out what has been missed, turn in assignments, and make arrangements to make-up tests, labs, etc. in a timely manner (HINT: Check the Biology Make-up Work Folder AND the Homework Page on my website)
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