What I Teach:

I am teaching 3 courses at AMHS the 2024-2025 school year. If you have any specific questions about course topics, feel free to email me!

Biology *** Required for graduation***

Class length: Year-long

Requirements: open to all grades who did not complete this course previously

Biology students will investigate the structure, functions, and interactions of living things. Students are expected to work in the science laboratory using mature and safe behavior. They will follow directions, express themselves in writing, do mathematical calculations, and keep a notebook of course work. 

Regular attendance is necessary since many labs involve living organisms or extensive setups, and classroom notes and lectures move quickly. Ms Benyo's class includes regular quizzes, projects and final exams which also require students to participate in person. Washington State Biology End-of-Course exam is associated with this course and is a graduation requirement. 

Chemistry: (Recommended for all students who want to attend a 4 year university)

Class length: Year-long

Requirements: Students need to have passed NGSS (10th - 12th)

This course is intended for students who wish to learn chemical principles and gain laboratory experience. Students study modern theories of atomic structure, learn to use chemical symbols and equations, learn about chemical reactions, and do chemical calculations. Applications of chemistry to everyday life are emphasized. Students will be expected to work with a partner in the laboratory using mature and safe behavior. They must follow directions, express themselves in writing, do mathematical calculations using a calculator, and keep a written notebook of all laboratory reports. 

Regular homework will be required. Regular attendance is critical since many labs involve extensive setups, and classroom notes and lectures move quickly. Ms Benyo's class includes regular quizzes, projects and final exams which also require students to participate in person. 

Doing well in chemistry sends strong signals to potential universities that your student is also capable of completing rigorous course material in their school.

Marine Biology: (counts as an elective and/or a 0.5 science credit)

Class length: 1 semester long. Currently offered both 1st & 2nd semesters

Requirements: Students need to have passed NGSS (10 - 12th)

From seaweeds to seals, kelp to killer whales, and plankton to porpoises, this class is about life in the ocean. Students will investigate the adaptations and interactions of marine organisms. Labs, activities, independent projects, and field experience will be a part of the course. Mistreatment of live animal specimens will result in removal from the course. Dissections are a part of this class, but students are not required to cut anything themselves, should they choose not to. Students are expected to work cooperatively within a group in the science laboratory using mature and safe behavior. 

Class attendance and participation are required to succeed in this course. Regular homework is required. Final projects must be submitted in person.