Biology

Course Syllabus
SS 2016
Ms. Yates
Email: jyates@bosco.org
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-7:50 a.m.
Course Description:
This college preparatory course utilizes technology, field excursions, cooperative and interdisciplinary learning,
and laboratory activities. The first semester provides an in-depth analysis of biology through the lens of four
macromolecules, energy, and homeostasis. The second semester builds on the first, focusing on ecological
interactions, evolution, genetics, and heredity. Upon completion of this course, students will gain 21 st century
skills including:
Have a fundamental knowledge of scientific theory and laboratory skills.
Proficiency at thinking and coming up with solutions and responses beyond that which is rule-based.
The ability to discriminate and filter information for importance and to understand how to maximize
cognitive functioning using a variety of tools and techniques.
Develop processing and analytical skills to allow students to integrate Biology into real-world
applications.
The ability to determine the deeper meaning or significance of what is being expressed through Biology
as a STEM science.
The ability to work productively, drive engagement and demonstrate presence as a member of a team.
Expectations:
1. Come to class prepared.
2. Come prepared to utilize your creative not just logical mind.
3. Be open to moon shot thinking when working on projects (see https://www.solveforx.com/about/)
4. Be ready to brainstorm and respect EVERYONES ideas.
5. Be ready to share your mind and work productively in groups.
6. Respect yourself and others around you. Follow the classroom code of conduct.
7. Mental and physical presence in class is necessary for class engagement and success.
Supplies:
1. Binder
2. Composition book or spiraled notebook
3. Pen, pencils, highlighters necessary for notetaking
4. BYOD (Bring your own device)
Course Book:
EBook: http://www.ck12.org/book/CK-12-Biology/r44/
Workbook: Biozone Biology for NGSS
ISBN: 978-1-927173-84-8
Unit Organization:
Unit 1: Chemical Building Blocks of Life and Enzyme Activity
Unit 2: DNA and Mitosis
Unit 3: Meiosis and Genetics
Unit 4: Population growth and carbon cycle/ water cycle

Class Procedures/ Structure:

The Student/Parent handbook for St. John Bosco High School will be required and followed by
students.
The Science Department at St. John Bosco uses a teaching model to provide an interactive approach to
learning. In this student directed classroom a rigorous and active course plan will provide a strong
scientific understanding with analysis and hands on learning. In order for students to be successful they
must:
Actively Listen: Effort and participation during class discussions is critical for each student. All
assignments must be attempted by students in order to demonstrate mastery of the subject concepts.
This mastery of concept is measured by the students ability to apply what he has learned to a
problem or task.
Study: There is no defined amount of time necessary to study for each concept. Each unit or lesson
will require different study habits and techniques in order to demonstrate mastery of the concept.
Homework: Homework problems and assignments may be given to help solidify the learning of a
concept or skill presented during class. Reasoning behind homework given will be unit driven and
specific to students comprehension of concepts in class. A homework grade will not be included in
the students academic grade. It is however a necessary part of the learning process when needed.
Exams: All exams are cumulative and comprehensive. Fluency and written exams will be given at
the end of each Unit to assess student understanding. Exam grades will be replaced by Midterm and
Final Exam Assessments. This encourages student growth and is a standards based approach.
Quizzes: Quizzes will be known as Entry or Exit Slips. They will be given either in the
beginning or end of classes to check student understanding of a particular subject. They will serve
as check for understanding and will not be included in Final Grade.
Late or Missing assignments: It is the students responsibility to contact the teacher in order to
devise a plan in order to catch-up. Missing lessons and concepts will continuously be presented in
exams so it is vital to acquire skills taught in the class the student missed. The class Moodle
webpage will serve as a great resource to view missed assignments and readings.
Lab Safety/ Lab Procedures: Students will be able to access lab equipment and stations when given
permission by the teacher. Labs done in groups require active participation by all group members.
Only material and equipment relevant to the lab activity are to be used/handled by the student. At
no time does a student have permission to handle or use any other equipment in the lab area for
student safety. Broken or unsafe lab equipment must be reported to the teacher immediately.
Class Procedures/ Miscellaneous
o Bathroom Policy: Students are encouraged to use the restroom during passing periods and
breaks. Cell phones are to be left in the room and students are asked to sign out when using
the restroom. Students are held accountable for any information missed.
o Technology Policy: Students may be allowed to take notes using personal devices such as a
tablet or lap top, but may only use these resources appropriately. In the case of inappropriate
use the device will be confiscated. Computers, tablets, and cell phones will not be allowed
during tests or quizzes. Students may not take notes on cellular devices.
Cheating and Plagiarism: Any cheating or plagiarism will be reported to the Dean and become a
part of the students permanent record. As deemed by the teacher, cheating will result in a nonpassing grade and notification to the students guardian and counselor.

Grading:
There will be two grading periods for students, the Midterm and Final. At these times each of the
following 3 Assessment types will evaluate student comprehension and skill.

Assessment Fluency Exams

Written Depth of Knowledge Exam
Project/Report
Entry/Exit Slips

33%
33%
33%
0%

Final Grade

100%

Grading scale in accordance to SJB Grading Policy

A
90-100
B
80-89
C
70-79
D
60-69
F
59 & below
Keys for Success in Biology
Ask questions and pursue extra help when you do not understand a topic immediately.
Perform as a team with your group mates just as if this were a sport.
Study for tests and begin projects early, do not wait until the last minute
Stay organized. Write down the assignments for the class and check the class website (Moodle)
Participate in lab assignments and promote lab safety
Respect other people and yourself
Note: The instructor maintains the right to make changes and additions to the syllabus during the entirety of the
year.
Parent Involvement and Communication
In order to ensure the success of all students, parents are encouraged to email or call me for any concerns. I am
available to meet before or after school daily and request at least 24 hours notice before the meeting time to
ensure that I will be available. Grades will be posted weekly on Net Classroom and course assignments,
upcoming due dates, and all lectures will be posted on Moodle for students to access during the entirety of the
school year. Please inform me of any adjustments your son may need or past successful strategies that may help
your sons success in my course.
For any questions or concerns please reach me at the following email:
jyates@bosco.org

Student Signature : _______________________________________

Date: ____________