Instructor: Ms. Schertzer E-mail: amy.schertzer@polk-fl.net
Textbook: Miller and Levine Biology (Pearson)
School Number: 863-499-2655
Course Description: Biology is devoted to the study of living things and their processes. Throughout the year this course provides an opportunity for students to develop scientific process skills, laboratory techniques, and an understanding of the fundamental principles of living organisms. Students will explore biological science as a process, cell structure and function, genetics and heredity, evolution and classification, diversity of living organisms and their ecological roles, and an introduction to animal structure and function. An end of course test (EOC) will be administered in May, which covers objectives from both semesters and will be for 30% credit in this course.
Objectives/Goals:
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Teach students practical scientific skills, which they can use to investigate, study, and explain the world around them.
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Give students a deeper understanding of the how biology impacts their daily lives.
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For each student to achieve a passing score of 70% on the EOC for High School Biology.
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To encourage the spirit of scientific investigation and with it the attitudes of accuracy in thought and work.
Grading:
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Laboratories  laboratories are a mandatory part of this class. Laboratory reports are required on some labs.
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Major Projects  research projects may be assigned throughout the year. Each project will include a handout of details, expectations, and grading rubric.
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Test and Quizzes  throughout the year, test and quizzes in this class will be cumulative in content.
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Homework  Weekly homework will be assigned. Parents will be highly encouraged to participate with the student. Students will also need online access for some homework assignments
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Grades will be given using the county/ school categories A=90+, B= 89-80, C= 79-70, D=69-60,
F=59 or less

Supplies:
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1 1 ½ in 3 ring binder
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1 package of tabs (5 minimum)
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Folder with brads and pockets
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Pens/pencils
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Lined notebook paper (wide or college ruled)
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Colored pencils (highly suggested)
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1 package of white computer paper
Teacher wish List: paper towels, tissues, hand sanitizer, latex-free surgical gloves (any size)
Class Policies:
Makeup Work
If you are absent it is your responsibility to obtain any assignments you missed while you were gone.
Absences – you have one day for each excused absence to make up your work plus 2. This includes daily grades and test (per school guidelines).
Missed exams must be taken before or after school within the time allowed (one week).
If you are absent during a lab you will receive an alternative assignment based on the lab. If it is an excused absence you can earn full credit. Unexcused absences will result in a 20% reduction.
Late work/make-up work will be given half credit if work is not turned in the day it is due!!!
Cheating/ Plagiarism
Cheating on a test or assignment will result in a grade of zero for all involved.
Data for lab reports must be taken during lab. Copying of lab data after lab is not allowed.
Each student is responsible for individual lab reports unless specifically stated by teacher.

Classroom Expectations:
Students are expected to be in their seat and ready when the bell rings.
There is absolutely NO EATING in the classroom or lab. Drinks will be permitted in the classroom if it has a screw top lid.
Materials (textbook, pencil, paper, and notebook) must be brought to class each day. If you do not bring needed materials to class you will be sent to your locker to get them and will also receive a tardy if you are not in the room when the bell rings.
The laboratory or room must be clean at the end of the period before leaving.
Treat everyone with respect.
Follow the instructions given by teacher or lesson.
All school rules will be followed as stated in the student handbook.
All safety rules as stated in the Polk county Safety Agreement must be followed. You must sign and return in order to participate in labs.
Keys for Success in Biology
Have a positive attitude!
I am here to help you succeed, so feel free to ask me for help. I am available before and after school in my room
Ask lots of questions. If you are unclear about something from the textbook, lab, or from discussion, ask.
Make sure that you understand how the lecture, homework, and labs interrelate. Labs and homework are designed to reinforce significant ideas from the text. Make sure that you see these connections.
Start studying for tests early. By studying and reviewing each night you are not only helping to prepare for the test more effectively, you are also more prepared for class each day and any quizzes that may be given.

Unit1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
Unit 9
Unit 10
Heredity
The Science and Chemistry of Life
Ecology
Cells and the Cell Cycle
Cellular Energy
Nucleic Acids
Origin and Evolution of Living
Things
Classification
Human Body Systems
Real World Biology / Review for EOC
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Lab Safety and
Equipment
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Scientific Methods
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Chemical Compounds
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Properties of Water
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Biological
Macromolecules
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Chemical Reactions and
Enzymes
 Energy Flow through the
Ecosystem
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Biogeochemical Cycles
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Population Biology
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Humans in the Biosphere
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Cellular Nature of Life
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Cell Structure and
Function
 Cell Reproduction
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Plant Structure and
Photosynthesis
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Cellular Respiration and
Fermentation
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Energy and Life
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DNA
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RNA and Protein Synthesis
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Mutations
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Genetic Engineering
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Mendelian Genetics
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Meiosis
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Origin of Life
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Mechanisms of Evolution
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Speciation and Extinction
 Evidence of Evolution
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Hominid Evolution
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Classification
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Nervous System
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Cardiovascular System
Human Reproductive System
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Immune System

*Students will be asked to have their Biology syllabus in their notebooks at all times to refer to throughout the semester.
I, ______________________(Print student name), acknowledge having received the Biology syllabus/guidelines. I will take it home for my parent/guardian to read.
________________________(Student signature)
I, the parent of the above named student, herby acknowledge having received and read the
Biology syllabus/guidelines for Kathleen Senior High School.
________________________(PRINT parent/guardian name)
________________________(Sign Name)
________________________Phone # _______________________________email
I would like to thank you for your time and effort. Please sign and return this A.S.A.P. to
Ms. Schertzer!!!
*Students will be asked to have their Biology syllabus in their notebooks at all times to refer to throughout the semester.
I, ______________________(Print student name), acknowledge having received the Biology syllabus/guidelines. I will take it home for my parent/guardian to read.
________________________(Student signature)
I, the parent of the above named student, herby acknowledge having received and read the
Biology syllabus/guidelines for Kathleen Senior High School.
________________________(PRINT parent/guardian name)
________________________(Sign Name)
________________________Phone # _______________________________email
I would like to thank you for your time and effort. Please sign and return this A.S.A.P. to
Ms. Schertzer!!!