MRS. SCHMIDT’S GUIDELINES FOR SUCCEEDING IN BIOLOGY
COURSE DESCRIPTION
ESSENTIAL
UNDERSTANDINGS
Biology is the study of life. In this class you will be introduced to the basic principles of life and living
organisms. Semester 1 includes an introduction to living things, cell structure and function, and
genetics. Semester 2 includes an overview of the 6 kingdoms and classification. Laboratory
experiences include, but are not limited to, extensive microscope work and limited dissections.
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MATERIALS NEEDED
GRADING
2014-2015
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There is order to the living world.
There are mechanisms that result in changes of population over time.
An organism’s structure affects its function.
Scientific theories may change as new evidence is found.
The scientific process is a means of collecting and evaluating data about problems and
communicating the results to others.
All organisms have cellular processes that allow them to survive in the world.
DNA is the underlying control mechanism of all cells and organisms.
An organism must maintain homeostasis with its internal and external environment.
Scientific inquiry is a way of gaining knowledge through reasoning and technology can extend
our ability to do this.
Student will use scientific information and skills to make decisions about themselves,
Wisconsin, and the world in which they live.
Textbook
3-Ring binder or folder
Pen and pencil
Old folder that remains in the classroom
***IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THAT STUDENTS USE THEIR ASSIGNMENT NOTEBOOKS.
Grading Scale: (As per student handbook)
A+ = 98 to 100%
B+ = 87 to 89%
A = 94 to 97%
B = 84 to 86%
A- = 90 to 93%
B- = 81 to 83%
C+ = 78 to 80%
C = 75 to 77%
C- = 72 to 74%
D+ = 69 to 71%
D = 66 to 68%
D- = 63 to 65%
F = 62% AND BELOW
GRADE BREAKDOWN
A student’s grade will consist of the following approximate values:
Quarter Grades: 10% Homework
Semester Grades: 45% Quarter 3
30% Labs/Projects
45% Quarter 4
60% Tests/Quizzes
10% Final Exam
HOMEWORK
At times students will be assigned work to give an opportunity to practice the skills and review the
concepts covered in class. Some assignments will be checked for completion at the beginning of the
next class period, but WILL NOT count towards the final grade. They will be entered into the grade
book as completed or missing. Other homework assignments will be collected or checked and graded.
These assignments will be recorded in Infinite Campus with a point value.
Class time will be devoted to discussing each assignment. It is the student’s responsibility to complete
the assignment, check one’s answers and ask questions when there is a lack of understanding.
Students are encouraged and expected to do all assignments.
LATEWORK
Any assignment submitted after the due date is considered late. Late work will be accepted, however
all assignments must be handed in by the last day of the unit for credit.
TESTS/REVIEWS
Each unit will end with a unit test. Several days prior to the test a unit review will be given to
which an answer key will be available. Students are encouraged to complete the review and
check and go over answers.
TEST RETAKES AND
CORRECTIONS
Students may retake any test only if they have met the following criteria by test re-take day:
1. All unit work is completed including assignments that do not count for their grade as
well as the unit review.
2. Student will display knowledge of content by answering all unit objective questions
prior to coming for appointment (these are included with the vocabulary for the
unit)
3. Students must get parent signature on a survey of their learning.
Retakes must be completed 1 week after return of that unit test. Students must make an
appointment to take a retake. If appointment is missed, the opportunity to retake is
forfeited.
FINAL EXAM
There will be a final cumulative exam given at the end of the semester.
EDMODO:
This class will utilize the online site Edmodo to post assignments, notes, or other significant
information. Students must go to this website and create an account at the beginning of the
semester. Directions for how to enroll were gone over in class.
Web address: ocfsd.edmodo.com
There are different access codes for each of Mrs. Schmidt’s Biology periods. Write the access code for
your class period here: ____________________________
When using this website, students are expected to abide by all school rules and expectations or face
disciplinary actions.
EXTRA HELP
If you need extra help, make arrangements to meet with me in Room 254 before or PROMPTLY after
school. Please let me know you are coming to ensure that it does not conflict with another meeting.
CLASSROOM
BEHAVIOR
EXPECTATIONS
The keys to being successful in any class are to:
Be Responsible; Be Respectful; Be Responsive
Other Rules as stated in your handbook:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Proper electronic etiquette.
No inappropriate language.
No inappropriate clothing.
No food or drink besides water.
Don’t be late to class.
How to Ensure Your Academic Success:
1. Come to class everyday
2. Pay attention
3. Do your homework
4. Study, study, study
5. Enjoy yourself
If You’re Absent:
1. Talk to someone in the class to get notes. There is also a copy of the notes in a folder in the
front of the room.
2. Check the “Pick Up Absent Work” bin.
3. Hand in collected/covered work in directly to Mrs. Schmidt
4. Discuss making up missing lab work directly with Mrs. Schmidt
BIOLOGY STUDENT CONTACT INFORMATION
YOUR NAME (FIRST AND LAST): ____________________________________
BIRTHDAY: ____________________
GRADE IN SCHOOL (CIRCLE ONE):
SOPHOMORE
JUNIOR
HOME PHONE: _________________________________
HOME ADDRESS: ________________________________________________
SENIOR
FIRST CONTACT NAME: ___________________________________________
RELATIONSHIP: ____________________________
HOME PHONE: ____________________________
CELL PHONE: ___________________________
WORK PHONE: ____________________________
BEST TIME AND NUMBER TO CALL: ______________________________________________
ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________
SECOND CONTACT NAME: _________________________________________
RELATIONSHIP: ____________________________
HOME PHONE: ____________________________
CELL PHONE: ___________________________
WORK PHONE: ____________________________
BEST TIME AND NUMBER TO CALL: _____________________________________________
ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________
ANYTHING IMPORTANT I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU OR HOW YOU LEARN BEST:
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
To parents and guardians:
This information sheet should have been attached to your student’s syllabus. If you have any questions or
comments regarding the information in the syllabus, I would be happy discuss those with you; please call me
at school at (414) 768-6210 ext 7254. Also, I would encourage you to check updates online if you have any
questions or concerns regarding your student’s grade throughout the semester. I try to update my grade book
as frequently as possible to show upcoming assignments/tests etc. Finally, I will be writing a weekly email
regarding class information and important due dates. In the past, most parents have found this helpful. If you
would like to be included on the email list, please PRINT your email below. Your email will not be shared with
other parents or students.
Thank you so much!
Mrs. Andrea Schmidt
Please sign here indicating that you have read the syllabus: _______________________________________
Email address: ___________________________________________________________________________
CONTACT LOG
2014-2015
Date
Time
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Parent/Guardian
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Codes: Phone = P, Mail = M, Email = E
Via
P
M
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Reason for Contact
Result/Comment