Honors Biology

Mrs. Lisa Bowman

 

Choose from the list to view the following topics:

v     Course Syllabus

v     Homework assignments

v     Group Projects

v   Biology and Anatomy Resources

 

 

 

Honors Biology Course Syllabus

 

Teacher: Mrs. Lisa Bowman

Room: 302 Oliver Building

Email: lbowman@sewickley.org

Campus Phone: (412)-741-2230

 

 

Course Description:  This course examines the structure and function of living things within the framework of evolutionary theory. Topics covered include the cell, DNA and RNA, protein synthesis, genetics and heredity, botany, zoology, and human anatomy. The honors version of freshmen biology is constructed to move at an accelerated pace and cover topics in greater depth. Furthermore, the curriculum is designed to prepare students to take the SAT II in biology at the conclusion of the academic year.

          Hands-on activities, student presentations, and laboratory investigations constitute an important aspect of the course. Students are expected to use critical thinking and problem solving skills to design experiments based on their understanding of the topics covered. While the course provides opportunities for hands-on learning, the importance of lecture cannot be underestimated. Students are expected to take good notes, keep up on their reading, and be prepared to discuss or answer questions based on homework and lecture.

 

Texts and Supplemental Reading:

 

Biology: Concepts and Connections Campbell, Mitchell, Reece

 

Laboratory Investigations

 

The Double Helix James Watson

 

SAT II Review for Biology

 

*Extensive supplemental reading will be handed out in class.

 

Tests, quizzes, and Final Exams: Percentage of grade: Tests and quizzes—approximately 55% 

                                                                        Final Exam —approximately 20%

Tests and quizzes are an important and necessary part of student performance and their overall grade. Quizzes are given approximately every two weeks. Students who miss a quiz or test are expected take a make-up quiz as soon as possible.

 

Homework(including labs):  Percentage of grade: approximately 25%

Assignments are posted on the Web via Sewickley Academy’s web site, however assignments are subject to change as per class discussion. Students are expected to turn in assignments at the start of class on the day due. Late assignments will be docked points each day late. No credit will be given to very late assignments. Exceptions are made due to illness and special circumstances.

 

Laboratory Conduct and Rules: Students must obey safety rules in the lab at all times. Any behavior that threatens the safety of other students or the teacher will not be tolerated. Safety Rules will be reviewed in class at the start of the year.

 

Grade Scale:

 

94-100                         A

90-93                             A-

87-89           B+

83-86                             B

80-82                             B-

77-79                             C+

73-76                             C

70-72                             C-

67-69                             D+

63-66                             D

60-62                             D-

59 and below  F

 

Sewickley Academy Home Page