Biology Honors
430 HONORS BIOLOGY 5.5 Credits
Given: Full Year (8 periods per cycle)
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Academic Expectations: Solve problems, use technology as an effective tool. This course fulfills one of the two required foundation courses in Science.
Text: Concepts & Connections, Prentice Hall, 2009, 6th edition, ISBN: 0-13-135566-X
Dissection is a part of the standard laboratory experience in Biology. Alternatives to dissection are available for any student who objects to dissection and whose parent or guardian sends a written request to the school.
Biology 430 is an extensive study of biological principles, such as: ecology, chemistry of life, cell biology, genetics, evolution and biodiversity through a molecular and cellular examination of life processes. Emphasis is placed on the genetic continuity that exists in the evolution and development of life forms. The course is aimed at the academically talented student with a strong work ethic, who is highly motivated, with excellent study skills and has the ability to work well independently and cooperatively. All students should be able to read above grade level and write clearly and concisely in a sophisticated style reflecting a mastery of grammar and biology vocabulary.
Syllabus
James Dibbern
Science Teacher – Longmeadow High School
Room 209
Phone ext. 2355
Honors Biology - 430
Biology: the science that seeks to understand the living world (Prentice Hall)
The goal of this course is to teach biology in a classroom/lab environment so that a broad understanding of the science is achieved. The course will follow the state frameworks for high school biology and will prepare students for the planned science MCAS test. Biology 430 is an extensive and fast paced study of biological principles, such as: ecology, chemistry of life, cell biology, genetics, evolution and biodiversity through a molecular and cellular examination of life processes. Emphasis is placed on the genetic continuity that exists in the evolution and development of life forms. The course is aimed at the academically talented student with a strong work ethic, who is highly motivated, with excellent study skills and has the ability to work well independently and cooperatively. All students should be able to read above grade level, write clearly and concisely in a sophisticated style reflecting a mastery of grammar and biology vocabulary.
Textbook: Pearson Biology Concepts & Connections Taylor/Reece ISBN –978-0-13-465340-2
Material requirements:
Students should be prepared with a notebook and pen or pencil everyday (there will be a lot of note taking). The book may be left at home unless otherwise notified.
Grading:
There will be a variety of evaluation methods used during the year. All assignments will be given a point value. At the end of the semester all points will be added up and divided by the total possible points. Some point values are as follows:
Tests 80-100 points
Quizzes 20-30 points
Homework 10-20 points
Projects point values given at the time of assignment
Homework:
Homework is not given daily. However, when it is given it is due at the beginning of the period. Once homework has been checked or collected I will not accept late work. If a student is out sick it is up to them to hand in their work the next day. All assignments will be explained in class and posted on Google Classroom.
Attendance:
Attendance is obviously important to having a successful experience in this course. It is up to the student to get all work missed and turned in within the week, unless another arrangement is made with the teacher.
Teacher availability:
I am here most days after school for at least ½ hour. I am also in school most days by 7:15. Once I figure out my schedule I will let students know what day I can stay for extended makeup/review needs. Come see me for any academic or classroom issues you have. I will try to have an afternoon review session before each test.
Classroom policies:
● I expect that all students treat each other and their teacher with respect.
● Safety is a priority. Anyone not being safe will be removed from the lab.
● Cell phone use is not permitted in the classroom unless for educational purposes with explicit permission from the teacher.
● No electronic listening devices, or their attachments, or I-watches are permitted to be used in the classroom without explicit permission from the teacher.
● I encourage anyone having trouble with the material to come see me for extra help.
● Have a successful year!!!