Biology Fourth Nine Weeks Skills Agenda
Unit 11 - Plants
Unit Goal: TLW compare and contrast the different classifications of plants by analyzing plant structures and their
functions.
Textbook References: Chapters 22, 23, 24, and 25
Objectives: (TLW)
a. List and describe general characteristics of members of Kingdom Plantae.
b. Compare and contrast bryophytes and tracheophytes.
c. Analyze the life cycle of a fern by identifying the alternation between the diploid and haploid stages.
d. Describe the structure and function of roots, stems, leaves, and vascular tissues.
e. List and describe general characteristics of gymnosperms.
f. Relate the advantages of seeds and cones to the evolution and adaptation of gymnosperms.
g. List and describe general characteristics of angiosperms.
h. Relate the advantages of flowers, fruits, and covered seeds to the evolution and adaptation of angiosperms.
Unit 12 - Animals
Unit Goal: The Learner Will (TLW) compare and contrast major anatomical structures and features of invertebrates and
vertebrates.
Textbook References: Chapters 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, and 32
Objectives: TLW
a. Compare and contrast methods of locomotion, feeding, respiration, circulation, and reproduction in common
invertebrates.
b. Analyze structural adaptations that enabled common invertebrates to adapt to their environments.
c. Describe the ecological importance of common invertebrates.
d. Compare and contrast methods of locomotion, feeding, respiration, circulation, and reproduction in common
vertebrates.
e. Compare and contrast anatomical structures and basic physiology among representative members of the five
vertebrate classes.
f. Analyze structural adaptations that enabled common vertebrates to adapt to their environments.
Unit 13 - Evolution
Unit Goal: TLW describe the role that natural selection plays in producing the great diversity among living things.
Textbook References: Chapters 15, 16, 17, and 32.3
Objectives: TLW
a. Describe the importance of fossil evidence, anatomical studies, embryological studies, and genetic comparisons in
substantiating the theory of evolution.
b. Identify and describe theoretical mechanisms for evolution by natural selection; genetic drift, isolation, and acquired
characteristics.
c. Describe the conditions needed for the process of fossil formation.
d. Demonstrate how fossils are dated using radioisotopes and half-life calculations.
e. Summarize Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection.
f. Examine why natural selection and genetic drift affect populations rather than individuals.
g. Summarize the effects of different types of natural selection on a gene pool.
h. Describe the process of speciation and identify factors that affect speciation.
i. Compare and contrast convergent and divergent evolutionary processes.
j. Analyze environmental changes and adaptations associated with the evolution of primates and hominids.
Grading:
Grades are computed as follows:
1. Tests, Quizzes, and Major Projects=60%
2. Classroom Work=15%:
3. Laboratory Investigations=15%
4. Homework=10%
*Students will complete a major project each nine weeks designed specifically for Pre-AP Biology.
Principal:___________________________________
Date:__________________