Biology Syllabus

Biology Course Syllabus

​Name: Mr. G. Bruce Riggs, MBA, BS

Class Location: Rm 501

Office Location: Rm 501

Office Hours: By Appointment

E-Mail:bruce.riggs@claremore.k12.ok.us

Class Attributes

(1) Positive relationships developed and nurtured between teacher and students; (2) A high level of rigor included in instructional practices via standards aligned; and (3) Students who learn to ask questions through an understanding of the Scientific Method.

Course Description:

Biology utilizes a standards aligned curriculum framework to encompass the essential concepts of biological science. The biology curriculum at Claremore High School focuses on the core concepts of the Oklahoma Standards set by the Oklahoma Department of Education. In this Biology course, students will analyze and explain the nature of science in the search for understanding the natural world, as well as practice the application of technology, scientific tools and critical thought skills in solving problems. Students will focus on the biological structures and their functions at multiple levels of organization in living things, as well as explore the patterns, processes and systems within biology. As scientific learners, students will collect and analyze data, interpret results, draw conclusions and communicate their findings. Throughout the course, students will work both independently and collaboratively, in a laboratory-based classroom with an active learner approach. The goal for the course is for students to gain a more meaningful understanding of the living world around them as well as a deeper appreciation of their place in it.

Materials:

Sample of Course Competencies/ Learning Objectives:

Student Evaluation

Student evaluations are based upon the evidence demonstrated in regard to each lesson’s learning outcomes. Students will receive a grade based on the proficiency of concept and skills. Each learning outcome is a major concept and set of skills that students will be working on in Biology class. Students need to strive towards Proficiency in the specific outcome and skills required. Once students have demonstrated Proficiency, students will go on to demonstrate knowledge/application of a learning outcome at a higher level of rigor.

Students will still receive a number/letter grade in accord with school, with the weights as follows:

Attendance Policy

Regular and prompt class attendance is an essential part of the educational experience. Students will accept full responsibility for ensuring their work does not suffer because of absences, and need to be accountable for arranging with teacher to make-up missed work upon return from absence. All students are expected to attend every scheduled class on time. Exceptions may be made for illness and valid emergencies.

Classroom Expectations

1. Be on time for class

2. Be respectful to yourself, teachers, and peers at ALL times

3. Be responsible for your learning by being prepared for class and bringing all necessary materials to class (notebooks, pencils/ pens, and attitude)

4. Follow ALL Claremore High School rules in the Student Handbook with fidelity

Bathroom Pass Policy:

The bathroom pass is limited. I expect students to be ready for class. If permitted to leave the classroom, you are not allowed out the first 10 minutes or last 10 minutes of class.

Electronics Policy:

All electronics must be put away and out of use at all times in the Biology Lab (Rm 616). Electronics includes iPads, cell phones, iPods, headphones, portable gaming devices, etc... Students found with electronics out in the lab during class will have items confiscated.

Class Requirements

You are required to have a three-ring binder, notebook and folder specifically for Biology class. Please also come prepared with pencils, pens, erasers and colored pencils.

Plagiarism, Cheating, and Academic Integrity

Plagiarism is the practice of copying words, sentences, images, or ideas for use in written or oral assessments without giving proper credit to the source. Cheating is defined as the giving or receiving of illegal help on anything that has been determined by the teacher to be an individual effort. Both are considered serious offenses and will significantly affect your course grade. We will use AP citing practices.

Methodology

A combination of lecture, class discussion, presentations, videos, cooperative learning, and problem-based learning will be used in this course. Grades will be determined by the satisfactory and timely completion of assignments. The grade of each assignment is based on the prerequisite given for each assignment. Below is an overview of topic/ units and major assessments/assignments for this course. Please note dates/timeframes are subject to change and are an estimate.

*Make up policy – Student’s responsibility to make up assignment. 1 day allowed per day not in attendance. Make up work during Encore.