Honors Biology
Course Syllabus 2015-2016
INSTRUCTOR: Mrs. Korie Grimsley
EMAIL: Korie-lanette.Grimsley@marion.k12.fl.us
Course Description
The purpose of this course is to provide students with general exploratory experiences and activities in the fundamental
concepts of Biology such as the structure of atoms, cell structure and function, human health, genetics, evolution,
diversity and classification. Students will also complete a high school level Science Fair Project.
Course Objectives
After successfully completing this course, the student will have developed course related skills through a variety of
methods, such as laboratory experiments, student activities, informational/educational videos, class discussions, and
research opportunities. Additionally, the student should be able to demonstrate an understanding of:
 Macromolecules
 Genetics and Meiosis
 Properties of Water
 Molecular Genetics
 Cell Structure and Function
 The Brain
 Immune Response
 Evolution
 Plant Structure
 Diversity
 Cellular Energy
 Ecology and Classification
 Human Reproduction
 Cardiovascular Health
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Materials Required
Covered Textbook: Biology (Holt McDougal)
 Pens and Pencils
3-ring binder with notebook paper
 Notebook Dividers
Colored pencils or markers
 Glue Stick
Scissors
 Calculator
Grading
The student’s grade will be determined by the following types of work: tests, quizzes, classwork, labs, projects and an
interactive notebook that will stay in class.
90-100% = A
Tests, Classwork, Notebook, Projects
60%
Quizzes, Labs
40%
80-89%=B
Grading Scale
70-79%=C
60-69%=D
0-59%=F
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3-Ring Interactive Science Notebook
Binders will be collected and graded at any time and will be worth 60% (test grade) of the student’s grade.
All class work must be kept in your science binder, not in your book or bag.
Organize your materials by your unit checklist and the science binder rubric.
Keep all materials for the class in your binder (you will need if for your final).
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Classroom Rules and Expectations
Be courteous and respectful at all times.
Be ready to work when the tardy bell rings, otherwise you will be required to have a tardy pass.
Be prepared with all necessary materials.
Raise your hand for recognition. Do not get out of your seat while I’m talking… it’s rude!
Do not ask to go to the restroom while I am speaking to the class or during a video.
Turn all work in on time.
Maintain a neat and accurate science binder.
Safety first! At all times. ABSOLUTELY NO HORSEPLAY IS ALLOWED.
No food, drinks, gum or grooming in the classroom.
Follow All FHS and Classroom Policies and Procedures.
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What Is Work Ethic?
Completing own work; not copying another students work.
Following directions.
Staying on task, assisting and encouraging others.
Being well organized and prepared for class.
Maintaining a positive attitude, listening carefully and respecting others.
Putting forth best effort and encouraging others not to be disruptive.
Not interfering with another student’s ability to learn.
Cleaning area and replacing materials and equipment to proper location.
Class Work/Makeup Work Policy
Do all work independently unless otherwise assigned.
Classwork is due by the end of the period in which it was assigned unless otherwise stated.
IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to find out what handouts, notes, tests, labs, etc. you missed during
absence(s), and to follow up on all make-up work according to FHS policy. The student has 2 days per absence
(up to 6 days total) to make up work and tests that are assigned while the student is absent, not if the work or test
is assigned prior to the absence.
Unless you have an excused absence, late work is unacceptable – a zero will be issued.
Do all makeup work at home, not during class.
Classroom Policies and Procedures
Positive, responsible and safe participation is expected of all students.
Behavior in the classroom is based on the highest standards of courtesy, respect, and safety.
Be considerate and respectful of your instructor, classmates and learning environment.
Classroom disruption will result in disciplinary action.
Plagiarism and cheating will result in serious disciplinary or corrective action.
Classroom behavior will be used to determine eligibility to participate in labs and activities.
Be sure to include your name, period, and date on all work! Include the title of the assignment!
I encourage the use of technology in the classroom. However, it is only appropriate when being used for
academic purposes related to our lesson. All electronic devices (phones, iPods, iPads, mp3 players, etc.)
are to be turned off and in your bag during tests. If electronic devices are on without permission,
they will be confiscated and given to administration.
 Hall passes will be given according to FHS policy. Please ask for permission, take the pass, and sign out and in
by the door. Please do not abuse this policy.
 The teacher dismisses the class. Remain in your seat and do not pack up until the dismissal bell rings. Do not
wait by the door for the bell to ring.
 Last period students will put lab chairs up on the tables.
 Be respectful and cooperative with substitutes.
 Stay with the class during fire drills, bomb drills and also in the auditorium during presentations.
 When all announcements come on, STOP what you are doing and listen quietly.
Contacting Mrs. Grimsley
The easiest way to contact me will be through the email provided here – Korie-lanette.Grimsley@marion.k12.fl.us
If you are absent for an extended period of time, you or your parents can always email me for what you are missing in
class. I will give you what I can: notes, assigned reading, PowerPoint Presentation notes, worksheets, etc.
Extra Help
Ask and you shall receive! However, you will need to come prepared with notes, practice work, and exact things you need
help with. Do not show up and say “I need help with everything!” I am available every morning before and after school,
from 8:00-8:40 and 3:00-3:30. I am also available during CAT Period. You MUST schedule before- or after-school help
with me ahead of time, in case I happen to be unavailable that day due to meetings, conferences, athletic activities, etc.
Homework
Almost all of the science fair project will be done at home, and students who expect to succeed should STUDY. We do
most of our work in class, but occasionally a student may have to finish at home. All students should be reviewing what
we covered each day using the online resources or their textbooks.
I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE SYLLABUS.
(Please write clearly & neatly)
Return this page to Mrs. Grimsley
Student Name: ____________________________ Name you like to be called:__________
X_________________________________________
Student Signature
Parent/Guardian(s): You and your student will be able to check their grades at all times via the
internet on Skyward (see website http://www.citrus.k12.fl.us/skywardfa). I will also be in contact
with parents regarding low grades, excessive absences or tardies, and behavior.
Parent/Guardian name: ___________________________________________________
Best phone number(s) to contact Parent/Guardian: ________________________________
Parent/Guardian E-mail Address: ____________________________________________
I prefer contact via (circle one):
Phone
Email
Please be sure to contact me about: ___________________________________________
X__________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature