Class Description This course is a thorough introduction to the Biological Sciences. Many biological topics are covered in -depth. Topics include: cells, heredity, botany, phylogeny,ecosystems, zoology and biochemistry along with laboratory work including dissection. Succesful completion of this course will prepare students for further studies in the Life Sciences.
You are expected to be in the classroom and ready to begin when the bell rings. Bathroom and hall passes will not be signed at the beginning of class. There will be a limited number of passes available for occasional use as necessary at appropriate times. The school tardy policy will be followed as described in the student handbook. No food or drink will be allowed in the classroom with the exception of plain water that does not distract from class activities. Students late to class due to returning items from or returning items to their lockers will be treated as tardy. Students are expected to participate in all classroom activities. Sleeping in class will be counted as a lack of participation and will be counted against your grade.
Classroom Code of Conduct
1. Bring your book and all needed materials to class and be ready to begin when the bell rings.
2. Treat all people, equipment and furnishings in the classroom with respect.
3. Do not interfere with the opportunity of others to learn.
4. Follow all directions the first time they are given
5. Students must observe all lab safety rules when performing experiments or using lab equipment.
Policies regarding plagiarism, absences, bullying etc. will be followed as outlined in the student handbook.
Class Materials
You will need a pocket folder and a spiral notebook. Both need to be used for this class only.
Assignments
Assignments turned in after the due date will be accepted at the teacher’s discretion. Some assignments may earn ½ credit for being one day late otherwise no credit will be given. Hopefully this won’t happen very often.
Absences
It is your responsibility to find out your makeup work. This may require time outside of the scheduled class period. There are resources available in the classroom to help you figure this out. Due dates for absent work will follow the student handbook. All missed tests must be made up before or after school within one week of an excused absence. Lab work will need to be made up within one week of an excused absence or students may complete an alternative written assignment at the teacher’s discretion.
Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s progress on graded assignments, notebooks, etc. as well as their progress listed on Power School. Please ensure access to this service early in the school year so that student progress can be reviewed regularly.