RL I BIOLOGY SYLLABUS
Mrs. Ludwig - A122
2015-2016
General Information:
Phone number: (610) 627-6297
Textbook: Biology (2013) McGraw Hill Education
E-mail address: hludwig@rtmsd.org
Google account: hludwig@rtmsd.net
Twitter: @phsludwig
Web-site: Access through district website – www.rtmsd.org
Course Content:
Introduction to biology
Characteristics of life
Classification of living things
Importance of biology
Biochemistry
Properties of atoms & molecules
Organic molecules
Water and living things
pH
Genetics
Cell growth and division
Patterns of inheritance
DNA and protein synthesis
Biotechnology
Evolution
Charles Darwin and natural selection
Evidence and processes of evolution
Human evolution
Cells
Functioning of cell organelles
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
Cellular organization
Membrane structure and function
Cellular reactions and energy flow
Enzymes
Cellular respiration
Photosynthesis
Taxonomy
Phyla of invertebrates
Structures/functions of organisms
Ecology
Components & cycles of ecosystems
Grades:
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Chapter review guide – approximately 3 chapters per quarter; may be in the form of outlines, note
cards, concept maps, student-written notes
Homework - Given nightly (reading textbook, preparing chapter review guides, study packet,
completing lab questions, etc.) – point values to be determined – approximately 50 points per
quarter
Quizzes – Varies by chapter – 10-15 points each (may be announced or unannounced)
Tests - Approximately three per marking period - range from approximately 50 - 70 points each
Laboratory exercises and laboratory reports - Approximately 1-2 formal written labs per
marking period/lab exercises will vary by chapter – 25-50 points each lab
Projects - One per marking period – approximately 40 points (if no project is assigned in a
marking period, the points will be replaced with additional lab activities)
Mid-term exam and Final exam – Each accounts for 10% of the course grade.
Keystone exam – while this is not part of the student’s grade for the year, it is an assessment given
by the state to students in May
Grading Practices and Progress Reports:
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Grade determined by a total point system; approximately 25-30 grades per marking period;
approximately 400-500 points per marking period.
Student grades are available online anytime. It is the student’s responsibility to keep track of
any assignments due.
Assignments labeled with a “Z” can be made up (student is absent when collected, for example);
those labeled with a “0” cannot (homework assignments not done on time, labs past 5 days late).
Expectations:
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The basics: Treat everyone (including the classroom) with respect, arrive to class prepared, use the
lavatory, water fountain, locker, etc. BEFORE coming to class.
 Arrive to class before the bell. If lateness becomes an issue, disciplinary action will be taken.
 Textbooks: Your textbook is an iBook available on your iPad
 Notebooks: You are expected to keep a folder/notebook into which you can insert handouts I
provide. Notes will be given as PowerPoint slides.
 iPads: You are expected to have them with you and have them charged. May be used only when I
give you permission to do so.
 Turn in your work on time. You will not receive full or partial credit for homework left at home or
in your locker. You will not be permitted to leave class to get it. Late homework is not
accepted.
 Lateness policy for major assignments (labs, reports, projects, etc.). For each day that an
assignment is late, you will lose one letter grade for that assignment. After 5 days, the
assignment will no longer be accepted. It is your responsibility – you will not be
reminded about deadlines.
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If you are absent. See me about deadlines for making up work immediately upon return to school.
No food or drinks. Place trash in trash can or recycling bin. Do not write on the desks. Do not
touch the gas, faucets, shower, eye wash, lab equipment, my desk, etc., unless I tell you to do so.
Neatness counts. Turn in work that is neat, legible, and shows your best efforts. If it is not legible,
grade = 0.
Follow directions. This is especially important concerning lab safety.
Talking. This is permitted only after raising your hand and being recognized by the teacher. Do
not call out.
Hints for success in biology:
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Pay attention. Listen and participate in class. Highlight and underline/make notations as we go
through notes, and add to them. If you need something repeated, raise your hand.
 Study outside of class. Review the material covered in class each day.
 Stay organized. Keep notes, handouts, homework assignments, labs, etc. in an organized manner.
 Set priorities. Don’t wait until the last minute to start a major assignment or to study for a test.
 Seek out help when needed. Ask questions during class. See me after class if you still don’t
understand. I’m available after school most days for extra help. If you’d like to stay after, see me.
 Read your textbook. Learn how to use your textbook to most easily access its resources.
 Use the textbook resources. There are many helpful links, activities, questions, etc. that can help
you prepare for your exams and master the material.
 Use your teacher’s website. Often there will be links to useful websites or practice diagrams; also
embedded within teacher notes are helpful animations.