Monday, September 6, 2010

Welcome to Biology

Hopefully you have gotten over your initial confusion of being asked, "what sound does a raisin make."

This blog will be a place for you to find out about homework, connect with other websites that can help you prepare for tests and keep you on track in class.

Please check it nightly.

Biology is the branch of science devoted to the study of life. The course starts with building an understanding of the scientific method before moving on to investigating the cell and energy processes at the cellular and system levels. Moving forward we will delve into cellular reproduction, genetics and cancer. At last we will focus on evolution, populations and the environment. Throughout this course students will work on the following four sets of scientific inquiry skills:

A. Make observations, raise questions, and formulate hypotheses.

B. Design and conduct scientific investigations.

C. Analyze and interpret results of scientific investigations.

D. Communicate and apply the results of scientific investigations.

Office Hours: By appointment only. The best way to set up a time for extra help is by email, I can be reached at ilana.saxe@tasis.ch.

Grading:

Homework 15% Tests/Projects 30%

Quizzes 15% Lab work 15%

Semester grade: Coursework…..75% Final Exam……25%

Year grade: 1st semester…..45% 2nd semester...…55%

Integrity:

Homework: Homework will be assigned almost every night and be incorporated into the following day’s class. A late assignment defeats the purpose of completing it. Therefore, late homework will not be accepted and will be graded as a zero. Assignments include, but are not limited to: worksheets; problem sets; readings; preparing for a discussion/presentation etc.

Make-up Work: You are responsible for obtaining missed assignments. If you know in advance you will be missing class for co-curriculars, an appointment etc. you should notify me in advance at least 2 days in advance.

Late Work Policy: As previously stated, late homework is not accepted. Late projects will be accepted up to three calendar days after the due date. However, each day that the project is late, 10% of the grade will be lost. After the third day the project will no longer be accepted.

Extensions: Extensions will not be given except in the event of extenuating circumstances, so plan your time wisely.

Attendance: Attendance is mandatory at all class meetings. You are expected to arrive on time in be in your seat with your homework and your notebook on your desk. A pattern of tardiness will be regarded as not meeting the expectations of the class and will affect your effort grade.

Class participation: In order to make the most progress in this class you will need to participate actively. Participating in class not only means sharing your ideas but also coming prepared and on time.

Notebook: Must be divided into two sections and have a table of contents:

You must keep a detailed table of contents for your notebook.

Class Rules:

· BE ON TIME!

· BE PREPARED! Bring the textbook, your notebook, highlighters and pens/pencils each day.

· BE PRESENT! Both in mind and body. Showing up for class doesn’t mean much if you are daydreaming.

· If you have an unexcused absence from class on the day of a test or quiz you will receive a zero.

· As soon as you need extra help, come find me. Don’t wait!

· NO eating or chewing gum in class. You may bring water.

Outline of topics to be covered in the Fall Term:

N.B. The instructor reserves the right to amend the syllabus at anytime.

Themes

The science of biology, scientific inquiry and methods

Measurements and microscopes

Basic chemistry for biology, properties of water, pH

Macromolecules & Enzymes

Cell structure and function, membranes & osmosis

Photosynthesis

Cellular Respiration

Academic Travel

Cell Growth and Division (Mitosis & Cancer)

Homeostasis and the nervous system

Muscular & Skeletal systems

Homeostasis and the circulatory/respiratory systems

How our bodies use energy, Human nutrition/digestion

The immune system & disease


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