540-660-1860 (cell)
Ad Astra Marine Biology
Mrs. Warren
804-448-0236 (home)
mighty4111@gmail.com
Course Objective and Description
This course is designed to provide a deep survey of marine organisms from each kingdom. Other topics include marine
ecology and ecosystems, marine resources and preservation. Dissections include a clam, sea star, and a shark. A strong
emphasis will be placed on note-taking and writing lab reports; at least one formal lab report/project will be required.
Additional labs and hands-on learning activities will be incorporated to facilitate the learning process. Regular exercises
will be given to ensure students are grasping concepts.
Course Specifics
1. We will use Apologia Exploring Creation with Marine Biology.
2. An assignment sheet will be handed out for each module listing the objective for each class, homework assignments,
lab days, and tests. This sheet may be modified at times.
3. Biology is a prerequisite for this class. This class is recommended for grades 10 and above.
Course Rubric
 Class Participation (10%)
 Homework (10%)
Homework will be given to supplement what is learned in class. Expect 45-60 minutes of homework on non-class days.
Homework grades are not entirely based on accuracy but on a continual improvement in understanding the material
presented. Homework completion is critical to success in the class since we only meet a few hours each week. Points
will be deducted for late assignments.
 Lab Reports (20%)
 Quizzes/Warm-Up exercises (25%)
 Tests and Projects (35%)-Some tests will be take-home tests. Tests will be open or closed book.
Materials Needed
 3 ring binder (preferably 1 ½ - 2”) with dividers labeled as follows: class notes, tests and quizzes, homework,
labs; notebook paper
 colored pencils
 pencils and pens (black or blue ballpoint; all labs are to be written in pencils unless otherwise specified)
 highlighter
Make-up Work/Absences/Late Work
 Any work not turned in on time will be considered late. Appropriate points will be deducted. Late assignments
are due by the next class. A zero will be given for any work not turned in by the next class period.
 If you are absent, you have two class days to complete any missed assignments.
 If you are absent more than two days due to illness, I will make arrangements with you about due dates for your
assignments.