Biology


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Required Supplies

  • Notebook - Each student will be responsible for obtaining their own notebook. This is a requirement for the class! Students must have notebook by MONDAY AUGUST 17th. If students are unable to obtain a notebook, they need to speak with Mr. Kauk ASAP. Recommendations for notebook: college-ruled, 100+ pages, spiral-bound, folder in notebook. College ruled, preferred.

  • Computer with wifi / internet access or district chromebook with wifi / internet access

Highly Recommended Supplies:

  • Multi-color pens (non-bleed type), color pencils, highlighter, glue stick, ruler, headphones, index cards

Expectations

ALL students are expected to respect themselves, the school, and their peers. Students are expected to respect their right to learn as well as that of their classmates. Responsibility and accountability are the foundations of this class. Each student is expected to be responsible for their actions and their learning, and as a result, held accountable for their learning and attitude. Students MUST complete distance education assignments at home (asynchronous/teacher support) and submit assignments to google classroom according to due dates.


Guidelines for Success

  • Show up to each class period ready and willing to learn.

  • Engage in academic collaboration with your classmates.

  • Complete homework assignments promptly.

  • Study/review BEFORE coming into class.

  • Regularly monitor your progress and grade on PowerSchool.

  • Make-up missed assignments as quickly as possible.


Biology Course Description

This is a foundational Biology course that is intended to provide all students with an understanding of the life sciences and prepare them for future high school and college-level science courses. This course has been developed to align with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). At Reedley High, this course must be passed with a "C" or better in order to take the higher level science courses such as Chemistry, Physics, Human Anatomy & Physiology, Sports Medicine, or AP Biology. The information you learn in this course will enable you to be more successful in higher level courses as you continue along your educational journey. Remember, rarely are the best things in life easy. Good Luck!



            The Science of Biology

Biology is the study of life and living organisms, from the smallest bacteria to giant sequoias.  Biologists use observation and experimentation to gain an understanding about the natural world.  Branches of biology include anatomy, biotechnology, botany, cell biology, ecology, genetics, medicine, microbiology, molecular biology, and zoology.   Many people entering the field of biology become specialized in a particular area.

Textbook: Miller, K., & Levine, J. (2014). Biology. Pearson Education, Inc.

 
 

Calendar for Biology





Grading

Grading will be based on the percentage of points a student earns with respect to the total points for the course and calculated each semester. Students will be assessed on their developing understanding of the concepts presented in the course through a variety of means including quizzes, unit assessments, notebooks, projects (group and individual), lab and class participation, and homework. (NOTE: Extra credit will be given from time to time throughout the semester. However, I will NOT give extra credit at the end of a grading period or semester to simply bump a students grade. You earn the grade you earn!)

Weighted Categories for determining your Grade

     Tests & Quizzes = 60% Homework/Classwork/Notebook = 40%

                                 Grading Scale:      

                                                    90% and above   A

                        80% - 89% B

                        70% - 79% C

                        60% - 69% D

                        59% and below  F

Late Work

Late work will be accepted, BUT the maximum points a student may earn is 50% of the original total points for that assignment. Therefore, it is imperative that you contact me immediately if you miss a class period or assignment.


General Course Outline

The following is a general list of topics/units that will be covered over the duration of the school year. ** The following outline is tentative and may change slightly based upon learning needs and time.

Fall Semester (17 weeks + Finals Week)

            Unit 1: Ecosystems

            Unit 2: Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

Spring Semester (19 weeks + Finals Week)

            Unit 3: Systems and Homeostasis

            Unit 4: Inheritance of Traits

            Unit 5: Evolution

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