Pre-AP (Honors) Biology Syllabus
Walker High School
2014-2015
Instructor: Mrs. Beth Loveless
Room: 13
School Website: http://whs.jasper.k12.al.us
Schedule:
1st Semester
1st Block: Pre-AP (Honors) Biology
2nd Block: AP Biology
Phone: (205) 221-9277
E-mail address: kloveless@jasper.k12.al.us
Class Website: http://jasper.k12.al.us/olc/teacher.aspx?s=358
3rd Block: Anatomy & Physiology
4th Block: Planning
Textbook: Biology: Seventh Edition. McGraw Hill Higher Education. (2005)
Course Description:
Biology is a “hands-on” course using unique learning techniques to introduce the student to the structure of matter, its
changes and the energy involved in supporting life, the different forms of life and the interconnections of the abiotic/biotic.
A comprehensive approach to learning will be emphasized. For many students, Biology is the first course requiring
enhanced learning and skill usage. Students must study at home to internalize the concepts and gain problem-solving
skills. This course is designed to give students an understanding of all that composes life on Earth.
Students will gain:
• Knowledge of various theories and scientific laws.
• Appreciation of the various ways organisms and the environment can affect our world.
• Skills in using the scientific method to solve problems and design experiments.
• Knowledge and practical application of laboratory safety, and laboratory techniques.
• Skills in collection, processing, and evaluating laboratory data, and scientific writing.
Teacher/Conference Information:
My name is Beth Loveless and this is my second year at Walker High School. I received my Bachelor of Science in
Biological Sciences degree from Lee University in Cleveland, TN. Some of my past teaching experiences include 7th - 8th
grade science and Biology at Parrish HS and Anatomy here at Walker HS.
This year I will utilize the Remind (formerly called Remind101) communication system. I will include the sign-up
information on the Student Agreement and Parent/Guardian Sheet which is to be signed and returned to me.
If you have concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me by email at kloveless@jasper.k12.al.us or at the
number listed above. I am looking forward to a great year here at Walker High School!
Materials & Fees:



$20.00 Lab Fee
1.5 - 2 inch binder (with pockets)
Loose leaf paper



Pencils and pens (black or blue ink only)
Colored pencils or markers
Highlighter
iPad and Technology Policy:
Students are encouraged and expected to use their iPads during class as appropriate for learning in my classroom. iPads
may be used to take notes, complete assignments, make flash cards, and conduct research. If taking notes in a written
manner is more successful than using the iPad, then the student may be asked to use a notebook. iPads are not to be
used for anything besides what is asked at the time.
Grading Policy:
Grading will be done by total points. Each activity will be scored by its own value, for example one activity may be worth
40 points while another may be worth 120 points.



Grading will occur on a variety of assignments. These will include writing, discussion responses, public speaking,
group work, outside reading, tests, quizzes, lab reports, presentations and participation.
Concerns about grades are to be addressed in an appointment with me after class, before, or after school.
DO NOT ASK ABOUT YOUR GRADE DURING CLASS TIME!

Grades will be recorded in STI and in most cases returned to you. Some assignments (such as tests and writing
responses) will be placed in your portfolio, which is confidential.
Assignments:





All assignments assigned are due at the BEGINNING of the period (when the tardy bell rings).
Lab reports and other large projects (work assigned at least two days in advance) will be due on time (at the
beginning of the period) whether you are present or not. You must make arrangements to get the assignment to
me when it is due.
If you are ill or cannot attend school for any reason on the day an assignment is due, the assignment should be
turned in to the office and placed in my box before your given class period.
Failure to turn in assignments on time will result in a ZERO.
If you have any questions or concerns, make an appointment to see me before or after school or leave me an
email message. I will return emails as soon as possible.
Make-up Work





For regular daily assignments (other than projects and lab reports), you will have as many days to make up the
work as you have been “excused” for your absence. Unexcused absences will result in a zero assigned for the
work missed.
Makeup Work – As stated in the Student Handbook:
- “If a student is absent for any excused reason, the student shall be allowed to make up work and/or
examinations missed during said absence(s). The student shall be responsible for contacting the
teacher or teachers within two (2) days upon return to school to make up work.” I will allow three (3) days
once you have been given the assignment to complete it, otherwise it will be a zero.
- Missed tests must be taken before or after school. (It is your responsibility to set up a time with the teacher.)
- Please note that make-up tests may be different from the test given in class.
Due to complexity, some labs are unable to be made up. In extreme cases, alternate assignments may be given
and will be at the teacher’s discretion.
REMEMBER, that I will not pursue you about your missed work. It is your responsibility to check with a trusted
classmate and get any notes. (Daily work & handouts will be in a file designated for your class for you to pick up
when you return to class.)
Students excused for school-sponsored activities will be expected to complete work before the absence for the
activity. I know your schedules are demanding. Be responsible. Plan ahead.
Late Work Policy
 Daily assignments/Homework - NO credit given
 Projects and lab reports - Go down one letter grade per day. No credit after 3 days.
 All other assignments – Go down one letter grade per day. No credit after 3 days.
Classroom/Conduct Expectations:





Be on time. Students are expected to be in their seat ready to work when the bell rings.
o Tardy – if you are not in the classroom when the tardy bell rings, you are late.
Be prepared. Materials (pencil/pen, paper, binder, book, iPad) must be brought to class each day.
Restroom Use – use the restroom between classes. I will allow 3 restroom passes per 9 week grading period.
Be respectful. Students are expected to follow school guidelines and expectations and to demonstrate courtesy
and respect to all in the classroom. (Teacher(s), visitors, each other)
All safety rules as stated in the Flinn Science Safety Agreement must be followed. You and a parent/guardian
must sign and return in order to participate in labs.
Cheating/Plagiarism – cheating on a test or assignment will result in a grade of zero for all involved.
Labs:



You must wear proper lab attire or you will not be allowed in the lab. This is includes long pants, shirts that aren’t
too loose fitting, and closed-toe shoes. Hair will be pulled back.
Formal lab reports will be required for selected labs.
Any horseplay in the lab will result in student dismissal and a ZERO for the lab.
Student Agreement Contract
I have read the syllabus for Pre-AP (Honors) Biology including Class Rules and Procedures. I am aware of all
rules and requirements for this class.
_____________________________________________________________
Student Signature
________________________
Date
_____________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
________________________
Date
___________________________________
Parent/Guardian Phone Number
________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Email Address