Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,
Welcome to the 2015/2016 school year! Please allow me to introduce myself. I’m a native Kansan from
Wichita who has also lived in Kansas City, MO and Detroit, MI. I love living in big cities, but have come to see
the benefits of living in a small town like Junction City. It has been my home for the last 18 years, and both of
my children graduated from USD475. My children have left the nest now, but I share my home with my
husband, Pat, and our 3 dogs. This is my 12th year of teaching, with the first 7 years being spent teaching
middle school science. I have a chemistry degree from Wichita State and my teaching degree (biology and
chemistry) from Kansas State University. Go Shockers and Cats!!
Course Information
Biotechnology is an exciting and unique class for high school students. There are two main goals for this
class. First, students will learn laboratory techniques and background knowledge that they can use to help
them get a job in the biotechnology industry. Second, students will learn how to keep records, time
management and professional behavior that can be applied to any career they choose to pursue after high
school.
Biotechnology students will have opportunities unequaled in most high school classes including sophisticated
laboratory research and real-world workplace experiences. This course requires commitment from the
students and the adults in his/her life. Students and parents are asked to sign an “Employee Contract” which
explains in detail the expectations and evaluation process for this class. Students need to turn in the signed
Employee Contract which is a 10 point assignment.
Supply List:
 One bound composition notebook
 1 pocket folder, or a place in a notebook (i.e. Trapper Keeper), to keep loose papers like assignments
and tests
 black pens
 Not required but appreciated: one box of latex gloves
Classroom Expectations:
1. Be respectful.
2. Be responsible.
3. Be safe.
Students are also expected to follow the school-wide procedures listed in the JCHS planner. Additionally, in
science there are unique rules to ensure safety during laboratory activities. A safety contract is also being sent
home to share with parents. Please read and sign it, then return it to me. It is a 10 point assignment.
If you have any questions or concerns throughout the year, please call me at the school at 717-4200. You can
also email me at kellylandes@usd475.org. I am looking forward to a great year with your child.
Sincerely,
Kelly Landes
Biotechnology Teacher
COURSE GOALS:
 A general knowledge of the goals and functions of the biotechnology industry – the “big picture.”
 Experience with the processes used in the biotechnology industry, including experimental design, use
of scientific equipment, data analysis and interpretation, critical thinking and communication.
 The development of good business practices, organizational skills and self-reliance.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
 Biotechnology students are expected to be present and prompt to class every day.
 Biotechnology students are required to maintain a legal, scientific notebook.
 Biotechnology students are required to develop lab and industry skills.
CLASS PROCEDURES:
1. You are expected to be in class (i.e. at your job), seated, with materials, ready to work when the bell rings.
2. Every day, you are expected to have the following materials: your legal, scientific notebook (which stays in
the classroom, a black pen, and a calculator (you can use your phone if you want to).
3. You are expected to follow the directions of the instructor/supervisor the first time.
4. You are expected to use all equipment correctly, safely, and as directed.
5. You are expected to respect the rights of others to learn and work.
6. You are expected to participate in all labs and discussions, plus take notes during lectures.
7. You are expected to take good care of your equipment and clean your work area. The teacher (supervisor),
not the bell, dismisses you.
8. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to make up the work during seminar within one week.
EVALUATION (GRADING POLICY): Since biotechnology courses are designed to prepare you for the
workforce, you will be evaluated in a fashion similar to the evaluation techniques used in industry.
10% Daily Assignment: 10 points per day will be given if the student is present and on time. If you miss a
class (a work day), it must be made up promptly.* Students will receive 3 “personal leave” days per semester
(3 excused absences), meaning they can be gone 3 times without losing points for attendance. Unexcused
absences will result in loss of attendance points. School related absences will not cause loss of points. You
will receive a 5 point deduction from your Attendance/Promptness daily grade for every tardy.
10% Participation: Up to 10 points per day will be given based on subjective evaluation of effort, skills and
work production.
40%
Lab Work: All data and information will be kept in a legal, scientific notebook
40%
Projects/Quizzes/Tests: objective evaluation of skill development and knowledge of content.
*Make-ups are during Seminar or by appointment, and must be completed within one week of absence. Here
is how it works: You receive 10 points for attendance each day. If you are absent 4 times in a semester (3
absences are not counted against you), your attendance would be 440/450 points which equals 98% for your
attendance grade. None of the other areas of evaluation will be affected.
________________________________________________________________________________________
I understand the commitment required for this course and the evaluation process.
Student Name (printed) ____________________________________________________________
Student signature______________________________________________ Date ______________
Parent or guardian’s signature _______________________________________________________