Course Syllabus Advanced Placement BiologyFall 2009Ms. HesterRoom 12-100
Instructor: Ms. Melanie HesterOffice Hours: Monday thru Friday 7:30 - 8:00 a.m. Monday and Tuesday 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Sunday @ ABC 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. ( 2nd semester this will become our review sessions) Lunch by appointment onlyPhone #: 245-3768 Wk. Or 321-3700cell Do not call after 10:00 p.m.E-Mail: mhester@mailer.fsu.eduMission Statement: I believe that every child can learn and will achieve to his or her fullest potential. Text Book: Biology 7th Edition. Campbell, AP Biology Lab Manual College Board Cliffs AP Biology Review Guide, It is recommended that students purchase a review manual for AP Biology Suggested manuals include Princeton Review, Barrons and Kaplin. Barrons Review flash cards are also recommended Brief Description of CourseThis course is an introduction to the Fundamental biological principals emphasizing common attributes to all living organisms. The purpose of this course is to provide a study of the facts, principals, and processes of biology and the collection, interpretation and formulation of hypotheses from available data. A.P. Biology will include those topics regularly covered in a college biology course for majors. The major themes addressed in this course are science as a process, evolution, energy transfer, continuity and change, relationship of structure to function, regulation, interdependence in nature and Science, technology and society. Approximately 25% of the allotted time for this course will be spent on Molecules and Cells, an additional 25% will be spent discussing heredity and evolution while the remaining 50% will be spent on organisms and populations. Students will complete the 12 recommended laboratory experiences in addition to other laboratory opportunities. Laboratory investigations, which include the use of scientific research, measurement, laboratory technologies, and safety procedures, are an integral part of this course. There will be a very limited opportunity to make up any labs missed. Due to time constraints, on lab days students will be asked to come in approximately 30 minutes early or asked to return to class at the end of the day to complete the necessary laboratory investigations. The most important difference between the AP course and a first year biology course is that students must assume the responsibility for their learning. Students are encouraged to seek help when necessary. Students in AP courses are expected to be independent learners, studying the material in greater detail than in previous biology courses. Group Study Sessions, outside of the school day will begin second semester. It is encouraged that all students participate in these study sessions. Students are expected to understand the themes and concepts and to be able to support them with facts. Students are expected to take the AP Biology test administered in May. Typically a score of 3 or higher will result in the award of college credit. Note: Laboratory investigations, which include the use of scientific research, measurement, laboratory technologies, and safety procedures, are an integral part of this course. There will be a very limited opportunity to make up any labs missed. Due to time constraints, on lab days students will be asked to come in approximately 30 minutes early or asked to return to class at the end of the day to complete the necessary lab investigations.Unit InformationUnit Name:Nature of ScienceChemistry of LifeContent and/or Skills Taught:The activities in this section teach the main concepts of chemistry and physics necessary to support the biology that follows. This unit includes the following topics:Scientific MethodExperimental DesignChemical Composition of Living ThingsStructure and Function of Biologically Significant Macromolecules Unit Name:Cells Content and/or Skills Taught:In this section students hone their microscope skills and refine their laboratory techniques. This unit is divided into the following sections:Cell ComponentsMembrane TrafficCellular EnergyPhotosynthesisCell CommunicationCell Replication Unit Name:Genetics Content and/or Skills Taught:This section continues to emphasize the skills and techniques of classical and modern laboratorymethods. This unit is divided into the following sections:Meiosis and Introduction to GeneticsInheritanceGene ExpressionGenomesDNA Technology Unit Name:Evolution Content and/or Skills Taught:In this section students begin to look at larger data sets with more variables, and move from glassware to computer analysis lab skills. This unit is divided into the following sections:EvolutionTaxonomyEarly Cellular EvolutionEvolution of Animals Unit Name:Comparative Anatomy and Physiology Content and/or Skills Taught:Students gain increasing autonomy in this section using the scientific process to design, critique, carry out and analyze experiments in physiology. Their lab expands to include themselves and their peers as they observe the patterns and changes that affect the various body systems. This unit is divided into the following sections:Physiological MechanismsAnimal structure and systemsNervous SystemHomeostasis and Endocrine systemReproduction and DevelopmentDigestion and Gas ExchangeCirculatory SystemImmune System Unit Name:Botany Content and/or Skills Taught:In an ever broadening scope of laboratory skills, students utilize nature as a living laboratory.This unit is divided into the following sections:Fungi and Plant originsPlant structuresPlant nutritionPlant Hormones Unit Name:Ecology Content and/or Skills Taught:By this point in the year students are highly skilled at reading and utilizing their out of class resources such as their textbooks, and the internet and they look to the teacher to guide support and challenge their growing knowledge base. This unit is divided into the following sections:Interaction between organismsPopulation dynamicsClassification of environmentsEnvironmental dynamicsIssues affecting the globe Unit Name:Review for AP Exam Content and/or Skills Taught:Using a variety of review techniques students are guided through a review of the course material to prepare them for the upcoming test. Review sessions are held during class time as well as at home. Separate review sessions are help after school hours to allow additional review time.
Evaluation
Grades will be determined on a points earned out of total points possible basis.Typical Point values:Tests --- 100 pts. (All test are graded on a curve)Pre – Lab Quizes – 10 ptsGuided Notes -- 50 pts. Essays ---- 50 pts. Quizzes -- 10 points (weekly)Assignments -- Variable Participation / Effort --- 25% of final grade FSUS Grade Scale90 - 100 A Outstanding Progress80 - 89 B Above Average Progress70- 79 C Average Progress60-69 D Lowest Acceptable Progress 0 - 59 F Failure I I Incomplete Educational Materials Needed for A.P. Biology 1. 3-ring notebook This will be used to hold class information and assignment descriptions. Preferably the notebook should have a hard cover. I would suggest dividers. 2. A calculator 3. Writing instruments pencil or pen. 4. Notebook paper. College rule is best. An Open Mind and a Strong work ethic are strongly suggested. Regular and timely attendance is a crucial component to success in this class. It is highly recommended that you bring your Student Planner to class each day.These Materials Should be acquired by the end of the First Week of School
Ms. Hester’s Class Rules1. Students are expected to follow all FSUS Rules as printed in the Student Code of Conduct especially the dress code, Safety procedures and attendance. Violations: Please see Student Code of Conduct2. Keep the Classroom clean at all times absolutely No Unauthorized Gum, Food or Beverages, Personal grooming, etc. allowed (Water is the only exception)Violations: 1st Verbal Warning2nd Instructor Disciplinary action3rd Referral3. Students are expected to maintain proper laboratory safety and behavior at all times.Please See Safety ContractsViolations: 1st Ticket: 0 for assignment3rd Ticket: 0 and must pass a retake of Safety Test5th Ticket: 0, retake, Wash ALL Glassware7th Ticket: Permanent Removal from Class4. Students are expected to treat all Adults with Respect; Insubordination, Profanity and or other abusive language or gestures will not be tolerated.Violation: 1st. Verbal or written reprimand 2nd. Removal from class5. Misuse or damage of any FSUS equipment or furniture will not be tolerated especially in the restroom areas.Violation: 1st: Removal of privilege for a period of time2nd Removal from class Extra Credit OpportunitiesThe following are ways to earn extra credit forMs. Hester’s class.1. Weekly Trivia Quiz: Maximum of 1 point per correct answer on quiz. All Quizzes are due by Friday at 3:00 p.m. Quizzes will be posted on the Extra Credit Chart.2. Creature of the Week / Structure of the Week: Complete the corresponding form for the item posted on the Extra Credit Chart Completed form is due by Friday at 3:00 p.m. 5 points weekly. 3. Current Science News Critique (Articles from Newspapers and Magazines):3 points per article. Please see Helpful Hints on the proper format. Small news briefs are not acceptable. 4. Who Am I: Maximum of 5 points Identify the Scientists or Mathematician describedIds are due by Friday at 3:00 p.m. Descriptions are posted on the Extra Credit Chart Every 20 extra credit points earned is equal to 1% point added to your nine weeks average. A maximum of 200 points is allowed per 9-week grading period. Other Special Extra Credit Opportunities will be available on Occasion It is the Teacher’s right to discourage any student from the pursuit of extra credit if the teacher feels the student is abusing the privilege. Changes in this Syllabus may be made at the Discretion of the Instructor (Usually in writing)