4309 Honors Biology – Room 308
Teacher: Emily Kadhim
Teacher Contact Information
E-mail: Emily Kadhim: kadhime@qvsd.org
Phone Number: 412.749.5557, x2308
OBJECTIVES:
To examine the interdependency relationships between the biotic and abiotic; to compare
and contrast physiological processes in organisms; to describe biochemical activities in
organisms; to utilize laboratory methods and techniques in the study of biology.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Biology is the study of living things. This course is designed for the college preparatory
student who has achieved at a higher level in previous science courses. Areas of
emphasis are on the structures and functions that organisms generally share, the
differences between organisms and reasons why they are different, and the effects these
variations have upon other organisms. Students must demonstrate proficiency in the use
of tools, processes, and resources in science and technology.
TOPICS:
Although subject to change, the topics that will be covered this school year will be the
following: intro to biology, biochemistry, cell structure and function, homeostasis and
cell transport, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, cell reproduction, DNA, RNA, protein
synthesis, gene expression, human inheritance and genetics, evolution, populations, and
environment.
EXPECTATIONS:
Students will be required to complete assignments and participate in class and lab work.
Independent and higher learning skills are required to construct models to demonstrate
and implement scientific and technological systems. At the end of the course, all students
must take and pass the Pennsylvania Keystone Exam in Biology.
REQUIRED MATERIALS:
All students must bring their textbook and laptop computer to class as well as a 3-ring
binder with the following tabbed sections included:
1) Journal,
2) *Class Notes,
3) **Terminology,
4) Graded Assignments.
*In the “Class Notes” section of the binder, it is also necessary to have chapter headings or dividers.
** The boldfaced highlighted terms from each chapter are due the day of the chapter test. They must be
handwritten and numbered; no typing allowed.
In addition, all students are expected to access the course website at
www.kadhimclasses.wikispaces.com to view/download materials and assignments. You
must first create a login and request membership to gain access to the page.
The textbook as well as activities/practice may temporarily be accessed by visiting
http://wps.aw.com/bc_campbell_concepts_5/ with the username honorsebook and the
password student789; however, Pearson (the textbook company) is/has retired our
version (5th edition) of the online textbook. You can access the 7th edition by visiting
http://www.masteringbiology.com/site/login.html with the username
honorsbiologyebook and the password biology4life (the topics and order of units are the
same).
GRADING:
Assessment of Learning (Tests, Quizzes, Projects, Lab Reports, etc.)…………..…....85%
Activities for Learning (Homework, Notebook, Daily Journals, Participation, etc.)….15%
LATE WORK:
Late work is accepted, but with a 10% penalty per day late. After the third day, there is an
automatic 50% penalty. Work beyond 1 week late will not be accepted.
PLAGIARISM AND CHEATING:
Plagiarism and cheating results in an automatic zero for both the student who copied as
well as the student who actually did their work! This behavior will also be turned into the
office to be placed on the academic record for all involved students; further disciplinary
action may be taken. Keep in mind this does not just mean tests, it means all work –
including simple homework assignments.