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AP Biology/Biology
Andrew Rapin
Room 124
Overarching goals of this course
• To increase my students’ biological literacy – (i.e.
build a strong conceptual framework of this
dynamic discipline-over factual). Ask your students
what some of these grand unifying themes of
biology are 
• To challenge my students as a critical, analytical and
creative thinker- and to develop the habits of mind
that are associates with these skills.
• To help my students learn how to monitor their
own progress in problem solving and thinking.
• To identify the preconceptions that my students
bring with them about how the world works and to
address their misconceptions.
Inquiry-based learning- the 5 E’s
Engagement
Exploration
Explanation
Elaboration
Evaluation
Object, event or question used to engage students.
Connections facilitated between what students know and
can do.
Objects and phenomena are explored.
Hands-on activities, with guidance.
Students explain their understanding of concepts and
processes.
New concepts and skills are introduced as conceptual clarity
and cohesion are sought.
Activities allow students to apply concepts in contexts, and
build on or extend understanding and skill.
Students assess their knowledge, skills and abilities.
Activities permit evaluation of student development and
Major topics we will explore in biology this year
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Science as a process
Characteristics of life
Chemistry of life
Cell biology/metabolism
Genetics
Mechanisms of evolution
Animal form and function
Plant form and function
Ecology.
What are the grade-level science
standards that your student will be
learning?
• http://www.k12.wa.us/Science/default.aspx
What can you do to help?
Help provide a rich learning environment at home and
in the community that provide opportunities for
guided learning that connects your son/daughter to
what they are learning in class.
• Studies have shown that in a calendar year
that only 14% a student’s time is spent in
school.
– many students spend approximately 1/3 of
their time outside school (not counting
sleeping) watching television or on the
computer or texting their friends.
Should you expect to see your
son/daughter doing homework for this
class?
• Absolutely!!
• Homework/reviewing: about 20
minutes (at least) per day.
Some useful resources you might consider:
• Skyward- online grades. This on-line resource provides a
transparent system that shows student progress in class,
assignments turned in/not turned in and performance on class
projects and quizzes and exams).
• Biology SharePoint, which provides the following resources
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Class syllabus and expectations
Daily assignment record
Class announcements/assignments
Parent’s corner (recommend resources on how parents can help cultivate an
interest in the sciences in their son/daughter and how you can learn more
about current research findings about how students learn).
– State standards for science and about the HSPE- which improved by 9% over
the last year!!
• Science Department link (from Biology SharePoint)
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Academic advancement policy
Science course offerings
Minimum science requirements for WA college admission
Information about advanced placement opportunities in science and college
courses being taught at the high school.
AP Biology
Why take AP Biology?
• It is a great course for students who are
interested in this field and/or want a challenge.
• If students score well on the AP exam they can
receive college credit.
• Great college prep for students- this course will
help develop the skills and habits of mind that
will help students succeed in their post
secondary academic endeavors.
(classes are a little smaller too).
Contact information
E-mail:
• rapina@svsd410.org
Sharepoint
MSHS website/sharePoint/rapin/AP Biology