Novato Unified School District

Curriculum and Instruction

NOVATO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
High School Course Syllabus
Marin Oaks
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School
Mr. Ciancutti
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Teacher

Biology
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Course
jciancutti@nusd.org
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Contact Information

Personal Note / Welcome

Welcome to Biology. Biology is a lab oriented, concept building course designed to teach the
state content standard for biological science. Topics include cell biology, genetics, ecology,
evolution and human physiology. There are many, hands-on activities and investigations that
provide experiential learning. Student develop problem-solving skills as they conduct
experiments and develop critical thinking skills through research and discussion. This class
fulfills both graduation and university entrance requirements in laboratory science.
Course Goals (from course outline)
The curriculum is based on the California State Standards for biological science. For access to
the full text of the standards, go to www.nusd.org/curriculuminstruction/currmain.html.
This introductory course in living systems is embedded with the California Academic Content
Standards for Biology which provide a foundation for advance studies in the life sciences in high
school and beyond. Goals include:
Understand the basic unit of a cell, principles of genetics, ecology and evolution and
physiology of living things.
Develop critical thinking, problem-solving and analysis skills necessary for successful
performance in courses beyond high school.
Test the validity of scientific research as well as the robustness of scientific models and
will be able to organize their thinking and resolve the issues of their scientific inquiries.
Course Objectives (from course outline)
Students will learn: Standards of Biology as developed by the State of California.
Texts (from course outline)
Miller & Levine, Biology, Printice Hall

Novato Unified School District

Curriculum and Instruction
Progress Reporting (from Board Policy)
Grades shall be reported at the end of each progress reporting period for all students. Progress
reports will be mailed home and/or accessible to parents online approximately every five/six
weeks. Whenever a student falls below a C- after the second Progress Report for either semester,
the teacher shall arrange a conference with the students parent/guardian and/or send a written
report. (Board Policy 5121)
Classroom Policies (Required)
Grading / Assessments
You will be awarded points based on your performance in class. You will be graded on daily
activities & effort, 25%, notebook organization and completion 25%, tests and quizzes and
special projects, 50%. Test or quiz frequency is once a week. Special projects will be assigned in
tandem with related subject matter that is being covered.
Parent Communication
I welcome parent participation. I can be contacted by telephone message 1 415 897-7653 or by
email (jciancutti@nusd.org). If you would like to schedule a conference with me, the best times
are in the morning, 8:00 a.m. to 8:25 a.m. or after school.
Behavior / Consequences
Behavior is based on a climate of respect, kindness and positive performance. Students must
come prepared with materials, treat each other fairly, speak when asked to and be ready to learn
when the bell rings.
Consequences will be progressive. On the first offense within the classroom, I will speak one on
one to the student confidentially. One the second offense, I will contact parents/guardians. On the
third offense, I will ask the student to fill out a behavior explanation sheet in the office and I will
call home. Any further offenses will result in visiting the Principal.
Homework
There is no homework assigned although students may sign up for extra credit work.
Classroom Tardies
When students are late to class, they miss out on learning. Students are expected to be in class on
time, ready to participate in class when the late bell rings.
Supplemental Materials / Media (See Board Policy 6161.11)
Films, investigations, demonstrations, books (E = MC 2), reference books and special projects.
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Novato Unified School District

Curriculum and Instruction
Keys to Success
Show up on time and be ready to learn.
Notebooks / Binders / Journals
An organized and complete notebook is required.
Assignment Format
Daily assignments are listed daily on the board.
Note-taking Format
Students are required to take good, thorough notes in class. All handouts and tests are posted in a
portfolio section. Notebooks will be graded on neatness and completeness.
Projects / Special Assignments
Special projects will be assigned throughout the year.
Curriculum Map / Class Calendar
Other Content of Teachers Choosing