Course Expectation Outline

Course: Modified Regents Biology

Teacher: Merryl Berliner

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

A broad course integrating several subject areas, Biology investigates all aspects of living things and their relationship in the environment. The course stresses student investigation done individually or in small groups and challenges students to make discoveries and interpretations based on their investigations. Emphasis is placed on understanding and application rather than memorization.

This course is based on Biology Core Curriculum prepared by the New York State Education Department developed to meet the Learning Standards for Mathematics, Science and Technology.

GOALS:

1.  Students will learn how to use the scientific method to become independent problem solvers.

2.  Students will become aware and knowledgeable of their environment with the intent to make community members that can make informed decisions.

3.  Students will be encouraged to use their curiosity and knowledge to explore current issues and events in the community, in the nation and in the world.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS:

1.  Be on time. Remember, if you are late to class three times that will constitute one absence from class.

2.  Be prepared. For each class or lab you should have your notebook, pencil, textbook and any homework sheet or lab sheet pertinent to that class period.

3.  Pay attention. Focus on the topic. Talking when the teacher or another student is speaking is rude and inappropriate. If you have something to contribute, please raise your hand.

4.  No food or drinks are allowed in the classroom.

5.  Hats may not be worn in the classroom.

6.  No horseplay in the classroom or with lab equipment will be tolerated.

7.  All school rules are in effect.

8.  For all lab activities THINK SAFETY! Review directions in the lab handouts in the proper use of equipment and materials. Any misuse of materials or improper behavior that endangers anyone's safety including your own will not be tolerated.

  COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Meet the attendance requirement (see Student Handbook).

2. Receive a passing grade in the course.

3. Complete 30 hours of lab work with passing grades.

4. Pass the NYS regents exam.

TETXTBOOKS AND MATERIALS:

Globe Biology, Globe, Fearson

Teacher prepared worksheets and labs

3-ring loose-leaf binder with dividers

Pens/Pencils

COURSE OUTLINE:

1. The Study of Life
2. Simple Organisms
3. Plants
4. Vertebrates
5. Human Biology
6. Human Health
7. Heredity and Genetics
8. Change Through Time
9. Ecology

 CLASS PARTICIPATION:

Attendance in school and class everyday should be a goal for all students. Those who actively participate by answering and asking questions, contributing their experiences and ideas to the class are the individuals who are involved in the learning process. It is expected that all students be engaged in the classroom and laboratory experience as positive contributing members of both large and small group activities.

HOMEWORK/LAB REPORTS:

Your written work is a reflection of your knowledge and effort. All assignments should represent your best quality work. If handwritten, lab reports and homework assignments should be on loose leaf paper, legible, and in blue or black ink. I encourage all students to use some word processor program and computer of their own or one available at the school to complete their assignments. If you are absent from school, it is your responsibility to make up all assignments and lab work.

GRADING:

Your quarterly grade will be based on your test average including a comprehensive quarterly exam, quiz average, lab average, homework average and average of projects and/or assignments.  Consideration will be given to the quality and level of participation. Lab reports handed in past the due date will receive a maximum grade of 65%.

PROGRESS REPORTS:

Each student will receive a progress report according to the Booster schedule.

EXTRA HELP:

I strongly encourage students to seek one-on-one sessions if they are having difficulty mastering a topic in class. I will be available throughout the school day by appointment and during the morning activity period on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.