Central Visual and Performing Arts
BIOLOGY
COURSE SYLLABUS
2015-2016
INSTRUCTOR:
Mr. Cooper
COURSE DESCRIPTION: Welcome to Biology! This is a required course for all students in
Missouri. Students in Biology will develop a greater understanding of how living organisms work, from
the cellular level to entire ecosystems. As Biology students learn about the living world, they will also
learn to think like a scientist by utilizing the scientific method and analyzing data. Students will learn and
apply new vocabulary terms and concepts, as well as complete hands-on activities and experiments.
Participation and working with peers is an important part of the learning process in this class.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/COMPETENCIES: Students will acquire understanding of scientific
concepts, knowledge of scientific facts and proficiency in scientific process skills. Inquiry and critical
thinking will be incorporated throughout the course. This course will also cultivate scientific literacy in
students, as it is becoming increasingly necessary in our technology-oriented society. Some of the major
topics we will study include ecology, cells and cellular processes, evolution and genetics. The class will
culminate with an End of Course (EOC) Exam to determine students’ mastery of major Biology
concepts.
COURSE OUTLINE:
First Semester:
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Scientific Method and Graphing
Ecology
Cells and Cellular Processes
Photosynthesis/Cellular Respiration
Second Semester:
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Genetics
DNA
Evolution
Review for EOC
ASSESSMENTS: Assessments are a very large part of the course grade for Biology. Students will be
given a study guide to prepare for all unit tests. It is VERY IMPORTANT that this study guide is
completed prior to each test. After each unit test students will have the opportunity to make test
corrections and demonstrate mastery on objectives they missed on the test. Doing the study guide,
spending time reviewing at home and doing test corrections/re-mastery are the best ways to help your
grade!
REQUIRED TEXTS/RESOURCE MATERIALS:
Textbook: Holt McDougal 2010, Biology Student Edition (You do not need to bring this to class)
Supplement: The Big EOC Review Book (given out second semester)
Website: http://www.slps.org/Page/7010 *Please check the website regularly!
REQUIRED SUPPLIES: Students will need a one subject notebook that is for science class only.
This notebook can stay in the science classroom. A pen or pencil is required for class every day! Please
do not come to class without a writing utensil. Maintaining an organized notebook and folder is an
important part of being successful in science.
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CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS/POLICIES:
Class Procedures: Students should enter the science classroom in an orderly manner, get any necessary
materials and take a seat. The Do Now and objective for the day will be posted on the board. The first five
minutes of class will be used to get materials, complete the Do Now and get ready to learn. At the end of
class it is the students’ responsibility to make sure all materials get put away neatly. Students will be
dismissed by the teacher when class is over.
Classroom Expectations: Be Respectful * Be Attentive * Be Prepared * Be Great!
Remember that being respectful includes showing respect to your teacher, classmates and the
classroom/materials. Being prepared means showing up to class ON TIME with the required materials.
Classroom Management Policy: If you have trouble meeting my expectations, there are several
consequences that will be implemented to help you get back on the right track. Showing up late and/or
without materials will result in a verbal warning for the first two offenses. Subsequent offenses will result
in a phone call home and loss of points if the behavior continues. Being disrespectful or disruptive toward
the teacher or other students will result in a seat change. Subsequent offenses will result in a phone call
home and/or a referral. More severe or chronic behaviors will result in a discipline referral.
GRADING POLICY/SCALE:
Science Department Grading Policy:
 Assessments 50%
 Includes tests, quizzes
 Classwork
25%
 Labs
15%
 Participation 10%
Grade Scale:
A= 100%-90%
B = 89%-80%
C= 79%-70%
D= 69%-60%
F= less than 60%
ATTENDANCE: Regular attendance to Biology class is expected and required for success. Some
activities, such as labs, can be difficult to make up.
MAKE-UP WORK: There will be a binder in the science classroom containing all work that is done in
class each day. Notes are posted on line on my teacher page. If a student misses a class for ANY reason it
is the responsibility of the STUDENT to check the make-up binder and website immediately upon return.
If a student misses a test or quiz, it should be made up the day the student returns to class (unless
otherwise specified by the teacher).
Late Work Policy: Late work will only hurt your grade and understanding in this course. I do accept
late work, but there will be a 10% penalty for each day late. 10% is an entire letter grade. If you do A
work you will get a B if it is a day late. Remember that 50% is an F, but a 0% for an F is far worse for
you final grade.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY/PLAGIARISM: Work that has been copied from another student or
source will not receive credit. Under some circumstances the student may be allowed to re-submit the
assignment. This will be determined on a case by case basis. If identical assignments are submitted,
neither student will receive credit. Do not let others copy off you!
MISCELLANEOUS COURSE INFORMATION: I am committed to making sure all students
perform at their highest possible level in Biology. I will provide tutoring after school as needed for
students who are struggling. It is the responsibility of the student to contact me as soon as problems arise,
not at the end of the quarter or night before a test. If any student or parent has questions, concerns,
comments, etc. please do not hesitate to contact me.
Your choices in this class will determine your success. Working hard and following class rules will
result in positive consequences and success in Biology.
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Please return the bottom portion:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------PLEASE PRINT:
Student Name: ________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name: ________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian phone number: ___________________________________ cell / work / home?
Parent/Guardian alternate contact number ____________________________ cell / work / home?
Parent/Guardian email address: ___________________________________________________
We (parent and student) have read and discussed the class syllabus. We agree to abide by all
class policies and come prepared with the necessary supplies. If questions or problems arise, we
will contact Mr. Cooper as soon as possible.
___________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
________________
Date
___________________________________________
Student Signature
_________________
Date
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