Biology
Instructor: Melissa Jenkins
melissa.jenkins@rowan.kyschools.us
School phone: 784-8956 ext 2656
Textbook: Biology-Principles and Explorations (Holt, Rinehart and Winston)
Technology Resources:
 http://www.rowan.kyschools.us/

www.scilinks.org
 Next Generation Science Standards: http://www.nextgenscience.org/next-generation-science-standards
 End of Course Assessments: http://www.act.org/stateservices/kentucky/index.html
 Teacher page: http://www.rowan.kyschools.us/olc/teacher.aspx?s=962
Course Description:
Cell Biology is a required science class for all sophomore students. The course topics include basic chemistry, biochemistry, diversity of cells, cell
reproduction, heredity and genetics. Cell Biology is directly aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards and Quality Core Content
Standards as mandated by the Kentucky Department of Education. Concepts are developed logically and reinforced through frequent “hands on”
laboratory experiences. The EOC assessment, a cumulative exam, will be worth 20% of the final grade in the class.
Course Outline:
Unit Topics
Unit 1: Biochemistry
Basic chemistry review
Water and its role in life
Macromolecules: building blocks of life
Unit 2: The Cell-The Basic Unit of Life
Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells
Cell Structure and Function
The Cell Membrane
Cellular Transport
Unit 3: Cellular Division
Mitosis
Meiosis
Cancer
Unit 5: Genetics: DNA and Inheritance of Life
DNA
Protein Synthesis
Inheritance patterns
Molecular genetics
RNA and DNA: structure and function
Mutations
Biotechnology/Genetic Engineering
Evolution and Change Through Time
Natural Selection
Cladograms and Phylogeny
Classification of Organisms
Microorganisms, Algae, Fungi, Protists, Plants and
Animals
Physiological Systems
Level of Organization of Organisms
Structure and Function of Body Systems
Ecology
Wetlands
Survey of Ecological Habitats
Energy Flow
Symbiosis
Human Impact
Activities
Carbohydrate Lab: Identify types of carbs using chemical testing
Molecule Building Lab
Enzyme Lab
Caloric Lab
Tie Dye in a Bowl
Cell Diversity Activity (cell manipulative)
Microscope lab
Cell Analogy Poster
Surface Area/Volume Ratio lab
Egg Lab
Dialysis Tubing Lab
Microsope Lab
Chromosomes
Mitosis and cancer
Meiosis and gametogenesis
Conjoined twins study
Karyotype
DNA models
Protein synthesis Paper Models
Penny Lab: testing validity of Punnett Squares
Baby Lab
Blood Typing
DNA Fingerprinting
GMO Debate
Hominids
Skull Comparison
Survey of the Kingdoms
Comparative Anatomy
Cardio Lab
Outdoor Classroom
Macroinvertebrate mayhem
Blue Planet
Big Bang: Lichen Analogy
Notebook – Students MUST bring their Biology Notebook with them each day. Students will be allowed to use their
notebooks on bell work, homework and class assessments. Keep all handouts, labs organized.
Grades:
 80% Cumulative assessments (Exams)
 20% Formative Assessments (Notebooks, quizzes, lab, class activities)
 Formative assessments can be “retaken” to improve understanding of content before the exam.
 Cumulative assessments are no longer eligible for “retakes”
Required Materials:
 3 ring binder (1 or 1-1/2)
 Coloring Pencils
 pencils/pens
 sticky notes
 Notebook paper
 ONE of the following (IF possible): box of tissue, box of nitrile gloves (no latex), hand soap, magic erasers,
dry erase markers)
Student Expectations
1. Students should be in class before bell rings, seated and begin Bellwork assignment promptly.
2. Students should bring notebook, text and necessary materials to class every day.
3. Students should remain seated and quiet until otherwise directed.
4. Students should respect teachers, adults and other students.
5. Students will do their best on everything they do.
6. It is the responsibility of the student to make up work due to absences in class! The student must
makeup work prior to assessments in order to reach optimal success on exams. (School Policy)
Teacher Expectations
1. Mrs. Jenkins will
2. Mrs. Jenkins will
3. Mrs. Jenkins will
4. Mrs. Jenkins will
5. Mrs. Jenkins will
student to keep
be in class before bell rings.
be prepared for class everyday in hopes to make it fun and enjoyable.
be fair and respect her students.
work hard to grade work in a timely manner.
expect students to be responsible to make-up assignments. It is the responsibility of the
up with class schedule and make up work!
Student Signature in agreement to Course Requirements, Class Routines and Procedures.
Student:___________________________
Parent: ___________________________
Date __________________
BYOD as possible:
Bring your own device. Laptop, tablet, or smart device.
Student DATA
Assessment Title
Date Score
Student Reflection of Learning
2
3