Course Description

Biology is a four-credit laboratory course that studies cells, genetics, evolution, ecology, cycling of matter and energy flow, disease and the immune system, and the nature of science and engineering. Students investigate various problems and study current issues through laboratory activities, scientific inquiry, projects, and independent work. Students will prepare lab reports, study the textbook, and complete assignments on a regular basis. This course prepares students to be scientifically literate and prepares them for future biology and science classes and is designed to be taken in 10^th grade.

Units:

Chemistry of life

Cells

Genetics

Evolution

Homeostasis

Diseases and the Human Immune System

Ecology

Prerequisites:

Science 8 Pre AP/IB Prep, Physical Science or Chemistry Pre AP/IB Prep
Biology is a core course in the high school science sequence.  It builds on knowledge and skills from junior high science and physical science.  It provides preparation for further science courses.

Content-based Instructional Practices:

This course uses inquiry activities in an experimental setting, with strong emphasis on the content and the process of science. Students will explore scientific concepts through both group and individual work.  Activities may include lectures, class discussions, demonstrations, hands-on activities, research, projects, laboratory experiments, real-world observations, data collection, data analysis and presentations.

Assessment Philosophy:

Instruction should include formative assessment of prior knowledge, individual development of concepts and effectiveness of instruction. Examples of formative and summative assessments in this course can include informal observations, discussions with students, projects, laboratory reports, student demonstrations, oral presentations, portfolios/notebooks, quizzes and tests.

Instructional Materials:

Textbook:  Biology, Stephan Nowicki, McDougal Littell

                 Biology: A Human Approach, BSCS

Technology and Internet:

Students will use microscopes, measurement/data-gathering equipment and Internet resources. Where appropriate and available, students and teachers should use electronic sensors and probes, microscope projection, computer simulations, multi-media presentations and electronic whiteboards.

Adaptations for ELL, GT, and Special Ed Students:

Collaborate with specialist staff members to adapt instruction according to Individual Educational Plans.  Include instructional strategies that are inclusive of the needs of limited English abilities.  Differentiate instruction to challenge and scaffold according to the needs of students.

LLC Resources