INSTRUCTIONAL GOALS

This course is a rigorous introduction to college level biology and prepares students for the Advanced Placement examination. It follows the AP syllabus prepared by the College Board. The two main goals of this course are to help students develop a conceptual framework for modern biology, and to help students gain an appreciation of science as a process. Essential to this conceptual understanding are the following: personal experience in scientific inquiry; recognition of unifying themes that integrate the major topics of biology; and application of biological knowledge and critical thinking to environmental and social concerns. The topics covered are Molecules and Cells, Energy Transformation, Heredity, Evolution, Physiology, and Ecology. Significant laboratory work reinforces and extends the intellectual framework of the course.

NEEDS AND RESOURCES

Required Materials

To successfully complete this course, you will need

• Textbook : Campbell & Reece Biology, Seventh Edition
• Student Study Guide for Biology
• AP Biology Review Book

Online Resources

 www.campbellbiology.com

COURSE SCHEDULE

 In addition to the topics mentioned above, students will complete the following labs:

·         Diffusion and Osmosis

·         Enzyme Catalysis

·         Mitosis and Meiosis

·         Plant Pigments and Photosynthesis

·         Cell Respiration

·         Molecular Biology

·         Genetics of Drosophila

·         Population Genetics and Evolution

·         Transpiration

·         Physiology of the Circulatory System

·         Animal Behavior

·         Dissolved oxygen and Aquatic Primary Productivity

·         Fetal Pig Dissection: Digestive System

·         Fetal Pig Dissection: Respiratory System

·         Fetal Pig Dissection: Circulatory System

·         Fetal Pig Dissection: Nervous System

·         ABO Blood Typing (using synthetic blood)

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

General Rules:

       Students are expected to keep up with the daily readings that are outlined in the syllabus they were given in class. Students must keep detailed notes form each chapter in their notebooks

Grading Scale/Rubric:

                    Exams      75%

                            Notebook      15%

                            Lab Reports 10%

Additional Information : May 12^th, 2008   AM session