NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL
Biology 1 Honors
Ms. Rebecca Rockholt
Room: D105
Email: rrockhol@rock-hill.k12.sc.us
Extra Help/Tutoring: In the Classroom M, W 3:45 – 4:30 pm and Tues 7:30 – 8:10 am
Course Description:
Biology I Honors is an introductory laboratory-based science course designed to familiarize the student with
the major concepts of biological science (and to address these concepts with greater depth than in Biology 1CP): the cell; molecular basis of heredity; biological evolution; interdependence of organisms; matter, energy,
and organization in living systems. This course provides numerous opportunities for students to develop
science process skills, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the nature of science through critical thinking,
and an appreciation for the nature of science through inquiry-based learning experiences.
Goals/Objectives:
Guided by the South Carolina Science Standards, the student will become proficient in topics involving the
cell, biochemistry, cell energy, genetics, evolution, & ecology.
Major Topics/Units
Unit 1 The Nature of Biology
Unit 2 Biochemistry
Unit 3 Cells
Unit 4 Cell Energy
Unit 5 Heredity and Genetics
Unit 6 Evolution
Unit 7 Ecology
Grading Scale for Biology I
Assessments/Projects/Labs…………………………………..70%
Alternative Assessments *………………..………………….30%
* = (Daily Grades, Warm-Ups, Homework, Quizzes, Participation, Etc)
There will be a final exam (cumulative), which will count 20% of your final semester grade. This exam comes
from the state department called the EOC (End of course exam).
Notebook:
For this class you will need a 3-ring notebook, which will be graded at the end of the semester. Your notebook
will be divided into 5 sections:
1. EOC/Warm-Ups
4. Labs
2. Notes and Handouts
5. Graded Work
3. Vocabulary
Other Materials that will be Utilized in Class: NHS Student Handbook (NOT optional!), colored pencils
Make up Work Policy:
If you are absent from my class, it is imperative that you make-up your work. It is your responsibility to find
out what you missed. If you missed a test or quiz you have to make it up within 5 days of returning back to
school. Some tests can be made up in class, before school, during lunch or after school. You must check with
me in order to schedule a time to make up any test. It’s very important to get your work made up as
quickly as possible.
Class Expectations:
1. You must be in your seat before the tardy bell rings and begin the Warm-Ups on the board.
2. Stay in your seat at all times. You must have permission to get out of your seat.
3. Bring your notebook and materials (pen or pencil, & paper) to class.
4. Follow all directions the first time they are given.
5. No Profanity.
6. No Food or Drinks in the class. If you are returning to class from lunch you CAN NOT bring your leftover
drink or food into the classroom.
Consequences:
1. Verbal warning and name written in discipline log book.
2. Second offense – you will be the last to leave at the end of class
3. Third offense – detention after school for 30 minutes and parent contact.
4. Fourth offense – referral to the principal’s office.
5. Automatic 15 minute lunch detention for bringing food or drinks into the classroom.
6. Severe disruptions – student sent immediately to the office. (Use of profanity or any kind of violence).
After school and lunch detentions can be served anytime during the school week. If you do not show
up for your detention then it is an automatic referral.
Bathroom Policy:
You will have 3 bathroom/water fountain passes per nine weeks. If you don’t use your passes, they count
towards your last test grade as bonus points. Do not ask to go to the bathroom the first 20 minutes or the last 20
minutes of class.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 To be successful, students are encouraged to review each day’s notes each night at home. Students are
encouraged to gain insight on the subject from their textbook and from online sources.
 There are no dissections currently scheduled to take place in this class.
 Regarding attendance, students who are frequently absent are at a disadvantage. Regular attendance is
paramount for school success.
Please remember that I am here to help you; so do not hesitate to ask questions. If you need extra help, I
am available after school from 3:45 – 4:30 as well as in the mornings from 7:50 – 8:10. I look forward in
helping you with the challenges ahead. Have a great semester at Northwestern!!
Questions’: Call - 985-8786 or Email – rrockhol@rock-hill.k12.sc.us
This syllabus will stay in the student’s notebook for easy reference during the semester.
Student: I have read the classroom discipline plan and understand it.
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Signature
Date
Parent/Guardian: My child has discussed the classroom discipline plan with me. I understand it & will support it.
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Signature
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Email address
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Date