Course: General Biology
Teacher: Dr. Holden
Semester: Fall Semester - 2014
Course Description as stated in Program of Studies
This course is designed for students to fulfill their 3rd science requirement. This course
focuses on an approach to the study of biology that emphasizes common experiences and
interactions within the natural world. Through a hands-on laboratory approach to the
study of science, students are exposed to the major concepts underlying Cellular Biology,
Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Environmental, Ecological and Evolutionary Biology.
List of Course Competencies
Students will demonstrate the ability to investigate, explain, and evaluate potential
causal relationships by using evidence to support claims and predictions about the
mechanisms that drive those relationships. Students will demonstrate the ability to
investigate and analyze static and dynamic conditions of natural and human designed
systems in order to explain and predict changes over time.

Competency 1 - Know about the steps of the scientific method, being able to assign controls and
variables either in the laboratory or in a natural setting, and be able to use quantitative and
qualitative data to support or refute the hypothesis.
Students will demonstrate the ability to investigate and analyze a natural or human
designed system in terms of its boundaries, inputs, outputs, interactions, and behaviors
and use this information to develop a system model that can be used to understand and
empirically evaluate the accuracy of models in terms of representing the underlying
system.

Competency 2 - Compare the structures and functions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, being
able to assess the role of organelles and proteins in the cellular functions of each type.

Competency 3 - Recognize that because all matter tends toward more disorganized states, living
systems need a continuous input of energy to maintain their chemical and physical organizations.
Students will demonstrate the ability to describe and represent the significance of
changes in observable and non-observable phenomena in terms of relative scale,
proportion, and quantity.

Competency 4 - Identify how organisms that are closely related possess similar DNA code.
Through sexual reproduction, gene mutations and new combinations may have a variety of effects
on the organisms, and may contribute to natural selection as seen through advances in scientific
techniques (i.e. Punnett Squares, Gel Electrophoresis, Pedigrees).
Students will demonstrate the ability to observe and describe patterns in natural and
human designed phenomena and use those patterns to support claims about the
observed or predicted relationships among phenomena. Students will demonstrate the
ability to use evidence to support claims about the relationship among structure and
function of natural and human designed objects.

Competency 5 - Describe how organisms from the five kingdoms are classified into a hierarchy of
groups and subgroups, which are based on similarities that reflect their evolutionary relationships.
The mission of Pelham High School is to educate students so that they may pursue life goals,
participate fully as active citizens, and become socially responsible community members updated 5/2014
Course: General Biology
Teacher: Dr. Holden
Semester: Fall Semester - 2014

Competency 6 - Defend the currently accepted theory for the gradual evolution of Earth’s present
day life forms, leading to distinctly different species as a consequence of the interactions of (1) the
potential for a species to increase its numbers, (2) the genetic variability of offspring due to
mutation and recombination of genes, (3) a finite supply of the resources required for life as
demonstrated by the works of Darwin, Malthus, Wallace and Russell.

Competency 7 - Explain how the abilities and behaviors of an organism, stemming from heritable
characteristics (biochemical and anatomical), lead to its ability to survive and along with the
Hardy-Weinberg Principle influence the growth of populations in an ecosystem.
Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze evidence from a variety of sources
(investigations, models) to predict, connect and/or evaluate the cycling of matter and
flow of energy within and between systems in order to understand, describe, or predict
possibilities and limitations of systems.

Competency 8 - Recognize how an organism’s organization and complexity accommodate its
continuous need for input of energy to maintain homeostasis, cellular, and biochemical processes
(i.e. photosynthesis and cellular respiration) by tracing the cycling of matter (e.g., carbon cycle)
and the cycle of energy in living systems.
School-Wide Expectation for Student Learning
 Solve authentic problems using technology, mathematical and scientific skills.
 Use effective reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing skills.
 Behave appropriately and responsibly with regard to others, oneself, and to
one’s surroundings.
List of Required Texts
1. Holt Biology Textbook
2. Smithsonian Magazine, Science News and Scientific American readings etc.
3. Multimedia supplements such as PBS, NOVA, Science Online and other science
related video materials.
4. May include videos GATTACA, Planet Earth, Life
Units of Study with Pacing Guide
1. Principles of Cell Biology - (10 –12 days)
2. Principles of Genetics (10 -12 days)
3. Principles of Evolution - (10-12 days)
4. Principles of Ecology - (10-12 days)
5. Exploring Diversity - (5-8 days)
6. Exploring Plants - (10 -12 days)
7. Exploring Invertebrates - (5-10 days)
8. Exploring Vertebrates - (10-12 days)
Assessment Activities and Grading
Units are designed to include a series of qualifiers that allow students to be eligible to
participate in a major assessment. Students must complete all required qualifiers before
taking the assessment. Included in these qualifiers will be dissections, insect collections
The mission of Pelham High School is to educate students so that they may pursue life goals,
participate fully as active citizens, and become socially responsible community members updated 5/2014
Course: General Biology
Teacher: Dr. Holden
Semester: Fall Semester - 2014
and other lab exercises. There will also be opportunities for viewing the class snake
being fed live mice.
Final Exam
20%
Written, Lab Practical
Formative Assessment
10%
Ex: Homework, Worksheets, In Class Work, Lab Reports, Quizzes
Summative Assessment
70%
Ex: Exams, Presentations, Research Papers, Quizzes, Insect Collection, Lab Reports
Requirements for Class
3 Ring Binder with dividers for each unit.
Lined Paper
Pen
Pencil
Textbook
As you sign below, you have been informed of the requirements for Biology. Your
teacher may be reached at PHS before or after school at 603-635 2115 or
jholden@pelhamsd.org
Signature of Parent/Guardian____________________________
Date___________
Signature of Student___________________________________
Date___________
The mission of Pelham High School is to educate students so that they may pursue life goals,
participate fully as active citizens, and become socially responsible community members updated 5/2014