Objective
In this class, students will gain an understanding of life processes and the living world.
Also, students will be prepared to further their education in the sciences through
developing scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. Our intentions are to explore
this subject with you, and to foster understanding, as well as appreciation for biology.
“Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the
adventure Science.” ~Edwin Powell Hubble, The Nature of Science, 1954
How will you be graded?
You will be assessed using two main categories, formative assessments and summative
assessments. Summative such as; posters, projects, formal quizzes, and presentations
will be the majority of your grade, and your formative assessments such as; journals,
organization, independent work, and quizzes will be the remainder of your grade.
Formative Assessments = 15%
Summative Assessments = 70%
Exam = 15%
The Grading Scale
In this class we will be using the 4.0 grading scale.
4.0 – A
3.7 – A3.3 – B+
3.0 – B
2.7 – B2.3 – C+
2.0 – C
1.7 – C1.3 – D+
1.0 – D
0.7 – D0.3 – E
0.0 – No Attempt
In the MiSTAR teacher gradebook, you
will notice that all grades in the gradebook
are represented by a number from the
grading scale. These numbers represent
the grade that the student received on the
assignment. For example, if a student
received a B+ on a paper, the gradebook
will show 3.3 for the mark.
We Expect….
Students to come to class prepared and on time.
Students to respect our right to teach and everyone’s right to learn.
That assignments are handed in on time and that class time is used appropriately.
Students to expect us to be great teachers!
General Policies
We follow the policies listed in the student handbook including; dress code, tardies,
electronic devices, etc.
What do you need?
Spiral notebook for your journal, pen or pencil, folder/binder – to keep your papers
organized, and your brain!
High School Biology Curriculum
Biology A
Unit 1: Organization of Life
Unit 2: Chemistry of Life and Digestion
Unit 3: Cells
Unit 4: Cell Transport and Excretion
Unit 5: Cell Cycle and Cancer
Unit 6: Photosynthesis and Plants
Unit 7: Respiration
Biology B
Unit 1: Mendel Flowering Plants
Unit 2: Meiosis/Reproduction
Unit 3: DNA and Protein Synthesis
Unit 4: Heredity
Unit 5: Evolution
Unit 6: Bacteria, Viruses and Immunity
Unit 7: Ecology
Unit 8: Genetic Technology