Biology Syllabus
2nd, 5th, & 6th Hours- Ms. Breann Nichols
Room 11
217.742.3151 Ext.212
bnichols@winchesterschools.net
Biology: "bio-" = life and "-ology" = study of
In other words, it is a branch of knowledge that deals with living organisms and vital processes. Themes that we will be studying in this course include scientific skills, cellular processes, biochemistry, genetics, natural selection, ecology, and the social implications of science on society.
Completion of this course will incorporate several modes of learning.
Notes - binder/notebook checks, Virtual Interactive Notebooks
Daily Bell Ringer Questions
Homework
Labs/projects/activities
Tests & Quizzes
This will then be consolidated with the final exam, which is weighted at 20%.
Notes
Teacher presentations - TAKE NOTES – effort you put in is the result you get out.
Homework - 5-20 points each
Most in text assignments are given on one day and checked the following day.
Weight 15% of your classwork grade
Tests & Quizzes - 40-100 points each;
Vocabulary - handed out at the beginning of the chapter and quizzes at the end.
Mini-quizzes - assess a specific skill.
Tests are given at the end of each chapter, unless otherwise noted, and include matching, multiple choice, short answers, and problem solving.
I do not grade on a curve
Semester Exams are all cumulative and will be weighted more towards the end of the terms material
Weight-50% of the classwork grade
Labs/Projects – 10 – 40 points depending on length
Lab reports need to be completed and turned in for full credit.
Weight-35% of the classwork grade
Extra Credit – randomly given throughout the term
Classroom Rules -When in doubt, rules and discipline set by the student handbook will be defaulted to.
I will complete all assignments
I will not plagiarize, cheat, or copy from any source.
I will follow directions the first time they are given.
Eyes front and no talking while the teacher is talking.
I will clean up if I make a mess.
I will treat others the way I want to be treated.
I will use appropriate language
If you choose to break a rule:
Verbal Warning
Detention
Office referral
Severe Disruption: Student sent immediately to office.
Late Work Policy - Work submitted on due date has a potential for 100% of points.
All late work will be put into the gradebook as a zero
Students will ONLYhave the opportunity to make up those missed assignments for full credit the week of each chapter unit
If the missing assignment is from an unexcused absence it will remain a zero
After the Unit test missing assignments will remain zeroes in the gradebook
Biology Curriculum (Subject to change due to pacing)
Unit 1 Intro to Biology
Unit 2 Cells
Unit 3 Genetics
Unit 4 Evolution
Unit 7 Ecology