Syllabus

Biology Syllabus 2016-2017 //Class: __http://cyrbioclass.wikispaces.com__//
 * Faculty Name:** Lora Cyr
 * Contact:** Phone: 207-
 * Email: ** lcyr@msad33.org
 * Room Number:** 14
 * Website:** School: //@http://www.msad33.org/wisdom///

//**Course Description**// //Biology is the study of life and living organisms. In this course we will study living things, the characteristics of life processes, and the unifying themes of biology: energy transfer, continuity and change, structure and function, interdependence, and regulation. Topics include the molecules of life, cells, genetic inheritance, evolution and biodiversity, as well as ecology.//

//This course is designed to prepare students for college level classes with a focus on literacy. There will be a// __great__ //deal of labs and hands-on activities to engage all students in the learning process. Students can expect// __**many quizzes/tests**__ //and// __**assigned reading**__//. Also, many labs will require a// __**formal** **lab write-up**__ to help students truly understand the concept of the scientific phenomena observed.

As a result of this class students will know, understand and be able to do the following: > techniques. > processes, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
 * Course Objectives**
 * 1) Pose a scientific question, keeping in mind what can be tested by science.
 * 2) Design and execute their own experiment using appropriate equipment and measuring
 * 1) Report and/or communicate their experimental findings and understanding in a scientific manner.
 * 2) Gain an understanding of the concepts and skills related to the chemistry of life, cells and cell


 * Learning Outcomes**
 * 1) compare and contrast prokaryotes and eukaryotes
 * 2) describe six unifying themes that define an organism as living
 * 3) describe molecular structures and primary functions of organic molecules
 * 4) relate cell parts/organelles to their functions in maintaining homeostasis
 * 5) identify reactants, products, and purposes of photosynthesis and cell respiration
 * 6) describe the cell cycle and compare the processes of mitosis and meiosis
 * 7) describe the basic structure of DNA and its role in inheritance and protein building
 * 8) determine probabilities of genetic traits in Mendelian and other types of inheritance
 * 9) explain how various types of evidence support evolution including natural selection
 * 10) describe and classify species as reproductively distinct groups of organisms
 * 11) use cellular evidence and mode of nutrition to describe the six kingdoms
 * 12) explain how birth, death, immigration, and emigration influence populations
 * 13) use a food web to follow energy flow in a system
 * 14) explain how water, carbon, and nitrogen cycle through the ecosystem
 * 15) explain basic anatomy and physiology of the digestive, circulatory, excretory, nervous, and reproductive systems

__**Unit Grades**__ Tests- 50-100 pts Projects- 50-200 pts Lab Reports- 25 pts Quizzes- 10-25 pts Homework- 5-20 pts Bellwork- 3-10pts __**Quarter Grades**__
 * Grading Policies**
 * Grade Scale**- Grades are calculated out of a total-running-point system *The teacher reserves the right to make announced adjustments to the point system.

- To earn full credit on assignments, work must be completed and turned in at the //beginning// of the period on the day it is due. - Students have a total of 5 days to turn in work before the assignment grade becomes a permanent zero. - Graded homework will be accepted for half credit. - Major projects/reports turned in beyond the initial due date drop a full letter grade //each class// day beyond the due date.
 * Late Work Expectations**

- Students are expected to make arrangements regarding absent work in advance. - The student is responsible for checking their class assignment binder, for copies of handouts and assignment details on the day of his/her return to be prepared for the next class.
 * Make Up Work**
 * The student is responsible for seeing his/her teacher OUTSIDE of class time to inquire about make up/absent work.


 * Plagiarism/Integrity:** See student handbook.


 * Behavior Expectations & Classroom Conduct**


 * NOTE:** The science classroom and lab area are unique places and special requirements for dress and conduct are mandated by the State of Maine. During lab activities no food or drink is permitted, appropriate personal protection equipment __must__ be worn, and all general safety rules must be complied with. See **Lab Safety Rules: Student Contract** for additional details.


 * Be polite and respectful to everyone else and to yourself. No foul language.
 * Be prompt, on time for class & quick with breaks.
 * Be prepared for class. (This means that you need your notebook, writing utensil, calculator, completed assignments, and your focused mind.)
 * Be productive, stay on task from the beginning to the end of class.
 * Be positive, make the best of situations and opportunities.
 * Personal Electronic Devices are not allowed during class and will be reported/ confiscated according to the school’s policy.
 * Behavior that falls outside the contracted rules will be dealt with swiftly and justly at the teacher’s discretion.

__**Do Not Hesitate To Ask For Extra Help:**__ If you feel that you are falling behind, extra help is available. The best time for make-up work and extra help is before or after school or during a study hall.

Biology does not need to be difficult. The key to success in this class, as in any class, particularly science, is to learn good study habits. A little studying every day can take you a long way. You WILL have homework EVERY night! It may be written homework, a formal lab write-up, or simply studying for an impending bell-work.

My goal for you is to help present biology in a way that directly relates to your life so as to reduce some of the mysticism and uncertainty about the subject. This seems to be one of the main causes of anxiety when it comes to taking math or science courses. If you have specific suggestions to help make your experience in this course more successful, please let me know.