Introduction to Biology

Instructor: Christie Jouaneh, cjouaneh@nvusd.k12.ca.us
Length of Course: 1 Year

Curricular Map (PDF FILE)

Course Description:
This is an introductory survey course on contemporary biology which fulfills the college entrance laboratory science requirements for the University of California . Through the investigation of the chemical basis of life, the examination of basic structural characteristics of cells, and cellular constituents, as well as the study of living organisms, student will be able to recognize, discuss and correctly apply fundamental biological principles influencing his or her personal relationship with other living things. Furthermore, students will be able to apply their knowledge of basic biological principles to the problems humans face in a modern technological society. Laboratory work is an integral and required part of this course.

Course Goals & Student Outcomes: 

·         To encourage the students to apply the scientific method in their efforts to understand, interpret, and engage in the biological sciences

·         To study biological science as both a body of collective knowledge and a set of processes that can be used to acquire and refine information in an organized way

·         To learn how application of fundamental scientific concepts affect our daily lives

·         To develop skills in the manipulation of materials and equipment and in the collection, organization, and communication of scientific information

·         To use attitudes and knowledge about science to live as an informed citizen in a scientifically developed and literate nation

·         To stimulate curiosity, respect and appreciation for living organisms( including self) and their place in the environment

Major Topics of Study:

·         Ecology

·         Cell Biology

·         Genetics

·         Evolution

·         Physiology

Attendance/Make up Work:
The calendar for the classes is posted on PeBL, the online system.  Students will know what is going on in a class any given day. For excused absences, students will have as many days to make up assignments or tests as the number of days missed. Work may not be made up for unexcused absences. In addition, unexcused absences will count against the Work Ethic grade. If a student is absent, she/he should meet with the teacher before or after class on the day of return. 

Tardies:
Each class will begin with a journal. To be considered on time to class, students must be working on the journal at the start time of class. Every tardy counts against the grade and two tardies are considered an unexcused absence.

Materials Required:
Notebook or Binder (for your class notes)
Lab-book (composition book will suffice, this is specifically for labs)
Pencil or Pen

Calculator (TI-82 or above is recommended)

Text:
Biology. McDougal-Littell, 2008.

Instructional Method:
This course will be based on the philosophy of constructivism through the use of project based learning to achieve course goals and learning outcomes. Teaching in this manner requires a diverse set of instructional methods that include lecture, group work, and research. This class will utilize these methods throughout the year.

Evaluation
The grading system at NTHS is a reflection of the learning outcomes that have been established here. Thus your grade in this class will be formulated according to the following list:

·          Biology Content: 50%

·          Work Ethic: 20%

·          Oral Communication: 10%

·          Written Communication: 10%

·          Critical Thinking: 5%

·          Collaboration: 5% 

Assessment Criteria:
Rubrics have been developed and implemented in science and non-science classes for several years under the New Tech model. These rubrics encompass all learning outcomes and will be implemented and utilized throughout the course.