Biology Syllabus
Mr. Manning
Email: jmanning@willisisd.org
Phone: 936-890-7723
Conference: 10:37 – 11:25 a.m.
Course Description
Biology is the study of life, examining living organisms and how they interact with their environment. The
curriculum is an introductory course taught in two semesters of high school. The primary objective of the course is
to provide students with a fundamental understanding of modern biology and scientific processes, work
collaboratively with peers, and develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. Overall, the curriculum is as
follows:
First Semester
Second Semester
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Unit 1: Safety and Evidence-Based Thinking
Unit 2: Ecology
Unit 3: Biochemistry
Unit 4: Cells
Unit 5: Photosynthesis and Cellular
Respiration
Unit 6: Cell Cycle
Unit 7: Protein Synthesis
Unit 8: Genetics and Heredity
Unit 9: Evolution
Unit 10: Classification
Unit 11: Viruses, Bacteria and Protists
Unit 12: Plant Structures and Adaptations
Unit 13: Body Systems
Unit 14: Making Connections
Classroom Behavior
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In order for this year to be a productive one, we must all strive to treat each other with respect and courtesy.
As per school policy, no eating or drinking in the classroom. Dispose of any kind of food or drink prior to
entering this room. No food, gum, or drinks allowed in the class at anytime.
The classroom will be kept clean and orderly at all times. You will be dismissed only after the room is
arranged like it was before you entered.
You are considered tardy if you are not in the classroom before the tardy bell rings.
As per school policy, no cell phones, head phones, electronic devices, etc. out in the classroom. All
electronic devices must be kept out of sight or will be taken up and turned into an AP. The device(s) may be
picked up AFTER school for a fee. Occasionally, there will be permitted use of technology in the classroom
for educational purposes. When technology is in use, all guidelines provided by the teacher must be
followed.
Come prepared for class with proper supplies and be ready to learn.
Students will not be allowed to sleep in class and if they continue to do so, the teacher will phone home.
You will have limited uses of the bathroom/hall pass. Use them wisely and there are NO exceptions.
Supplies
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Black or blue pen
Pencils
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Composite notebook
3 ring binder and tab dividers
Additional supplies: In order to keep the classroom running smoothly, I request a few supplies from each student.
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1st Period: 1 package of colored pencils
3rd Period: 1 pair of big scissors
4th Period: 1 pkg. of #2 pencils & 1 ruler
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6th Period: 1 package of glue sticks
7th Period: 1 box of Kleenex
8th Period: 1 package markers (wide/thick)
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Schoolwork
Schoolwork is assigned nearly every day. I expect you to have completed the work in order to participate in the next
day’s class. If you are absent, you are responsible for collecting missed work; this includes absences due to UIL
activities. One day absence allows you to have one day to make-up the assignment. For long absences, teacher may
use discretion on make-up due dates. If it is not collected or not completed and turned in, it will not be graded. If
you fail to retrieve work prior to a UIL related absence, you will receive points off.
Biology Notebook Order
Students are expected to keep an organized notebook, containing class notes, assignments, lab handouts, etc. The
specific order for the notebook will be provided throughout the year. Notebook checks will be conducted throughout
the year and assigned a grade.
Late work policy
The late work policy on minor and major assignment is as follows:
Late Penalty
Deadline
Minor Assignments (40%)
25% off grade
Progress reports (3 weeks)
Major Assignments (60%)
10 points off per day
Report card (6 weeks)
a. Minor assignments (Example: Class work, homework, small labs, quizzes)
i. Late work will be accepted with a penalty of 25% off. If the assignment has not been turned
in by the 3-week progress report, it will be a zero.
b. Major Assignments (Example: Projects, major labs)
i. 10 points of per day. If the assignment has not been turned in by the 6-week report card, it
will be a zero.
Grades
Grades will be calculated following the percentages below:
 60 % Major
 40% Minor
Every 6 weeks will include at least 3 major grades (tests, labs, or projects) and 6 minor grades (homework,
schoolwork and quizzes).
Tutorials
I expect students to read through their notes, labs, and other materials on a daily basis. You are welcome to see me
after school any day from 2:45 – 3:10 p.m. for assistance with questions. You must have questions prepared before
coming for help. Please note tutorial times and dates are subject to change throughout the year.
Parent’s Signature: ________________________________
Date: ______________________
Parent’s E-mail: ___________________________________
Phone #: ____________________
Student’s Name (print): _____________________________
Student’s Signature: ________________________________
Date: ________________________
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