Biology 2014/2015
Syllabus
Teacher: Ms. McSweeny, E-mail: amcsweeny@bishopamat.org
Phone: (626) 962-2495 ext. 5909
Course Objectives:
Biology is a college-preparatory, laboratory-oriented study of life, including all subject matter of
a general biology curriculum. The study of cytology and genetics are explored in depth, as are
the topics evolution, zoology, taxonomy, and human biology. Emphasis is placed on the
development of critical thinking/problem solving skills.
Classroom expectations:
Biology is a laboratory, hands on course. Students will be required to perform lab activities
which will involve the use of sharp dissecting tools, glass, and hazardous chemicals. SAFETY is
paramount in the class and laboratory. To ensure safe and productive learning ALL classroom
rules are to be followed. The safety contract must be signed by the student and parent in order to
participate in any laboratory experiment.
Text Book:
Holt Rinehart Winston Modern Biology
ISBN-13:978-0-030-36769-4
Class Supplies:
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Textbook*
2 inch binder dedicated to biology
Dividers
Highlighter
Pencil
Blue, Black, and Red pens
Colored pencils
Loose leaf (college-ruled) paper
*Bring every day—I will be doing textbook checks. Failure to bring your book will result in
a penalty to the student’s grade
Classroom Rules:
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Respect all others, all teachers, yourself.
Vandalism of any kind to school property will not be tolerated
No extra credit
Tutoring (by appointment)
Detention will be served on Fridays after school, unless otherwise stated by the teacher
*All rules outlined in Lancer life will be enforced*
Attendance/Make Up Work:
Students who are absent from class are responsible for obtaining class announcements/assignments. All
physical handouts, work, tests, etc the student missed will be placed in a RED folder with designated tabs
for each period, and are to be picked up the next class period the student is present.
The following is a list of procedures for other missing/makeup work:
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Homework – If you are missing, it is our responsibility to show the completed assignment before
the scheduled chapter test. When present, No late homework accepted
Labs – 2pts per day for late labs up to 5 days then ½ credit will be given. If you are missing for a
lab, you have until two days before the scheduled Unit test to make it up, or unless arrangements
have been made with the instructor. All lab reports due because of excused absences will be
accepted no later than one day before the chapter test.
Test/ Quizzes – if you are missing for a quiz or a test it must be made up the following class
period or arrangements will be made with the instructor.
Method of Grading:
Your grade will be weighted based on the labs, quizzes, tests, homework and exams (midterm and final).
The science department grading and percent distribution is as follows:
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Test 20%
Quiz 20%
Lab 20%
Homework 20% (Graded on Completion)
Exams (midterm and final) 20%
Final Grade:
Your Semester Grade will be based on the average of the 5 categories
**Course Topics:
First Semester
 Chapter 1: The Science of Life
 Chapter 2: Chemistry of Life
 Chapter 3: Biochemistry
 Chapter 4:Cell Structure and Function
 Chapter 5: Homeostasis and Cell Transport
 Chapter 6: Photosynthesis
 Chapter 7: Cellular Respiration
 Chapter 8: Cell Reproduction
Second Semester
 Chapter 9: Fundamentals of Genetics
 Chapter 10: DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis
 Chapter 12: Inheritance Patterns and Human Genetics
 Chapter 15: Theory of Evolution
 Chapter 46: Circulatory and Respiratory Systems
 Chapter 47: The Body’s Defense System
 Chapter 48: Digestive and Excretory Systems
**Subject to change at teacher’s discretion