Biology 1
Mr. Freeman – Room 202
Email: [email protected]
Voicemail: (864) 949-2355 ext. 7202
Course Description:
Students will examine the major concepts of biological science: the cell; molecular basis of heredity;
interdependence of organisms; matter, energy and organization in living systems; and behavior and regulation.
This course provides numerous opportunities for students to develop science process skills, critical thinking,
and an appreciation for the nature of science through inquire-based learning experiences. Investigative,
hands-on lab activities that address the high school inquiry standards are an integral part of this course.
Course Objectives and Standards:
B1: The student will use the science and engineering practices, including the processes and skills of scientific
inquiry, to develop understandings of science content.
B2: The student will demonstrate the understanding that the essential functions of life take place within cells or
systems of cells.
B3: The student will demonstrate the understanding that all essential processes within organisms require
energy which in most ecosystems is ultimately derived from the Sun and transferred into chemical energy by
the photosynthetic organisms of that ecosystem.
B4: The student will demonstrate an understanding of the specific mechanisms by which characteristics or
traits are transferred from one generation to the next via genes.
B5: The student will demonstrate an understanding of biological evolution and the diversity of life.
B6: The student will demonstrate an understanding that ecosystems are complex, interactive systems that
include both biological communities and physical components of the environment.
Course Topics:
Scientific method
Characteristics of living
organisms
Lab safety
Life substances
Biochemistry
Cells
Cell organelles
Diffusion
Cell cycle
DNA
Genetics
Energy
Photosynthesis
Cellular respiration
Ecology
Evolution
Diversity of life
Text:
Miller, K.R., & Levine, J.S. (2017). Biology. Hoboken, NJ: Pearson.
Required Supplies:
3 ring binder
Notebook paper
Pens or pencils
Grading Scale:
A
90 – 100
B
80 – 89
C
70 – 79
D
60 – 69
F
Below 59
Grading Plan:
40% “Quiz Grades”
Homework and Weekly Readings
Classwork Assignments
Quizzes
Semester Grade Basis:
First nine weeks
40%
Second nine weeks 40%
End of Course Test 20%
60% “Test Grades”
AIR Reading Logs
Tests
Projects
Classroom Rules of Conduct:
Come to class.
Come to class on time.
Try your best.
Communicate.
Be responsible.
Be respectful.
Be honest.
Learn something new.
Welcome!
First of all, I would like to welcome you to this class. It is our class—mine, yours, and your neighbors’.
This is the beginning, so I hope that everything gets off to a great start for you! I would like to let you
know what I expect of students (in and out of the classroom).
All rules and procedures identified in your handbook apply in this classroom. You should be mature
enough to behave accordingly.
Come to class! This whole education thing is for you. You are responsible for all work missed
due to absences. You have five school days to make up work if you miss class. Ten points per day
will be deducted from the grade of late assignments.
Come to class on time. The agenda allows you two tardies before the tardy party begins. I
expect you to be IN YOUR SEAT when the bell rings (not right out in the hall, not in the doorway, and
not rushing to your seat).
In your seat!
Try your best. Life is what you make it. If you want this class to be boring, it will be boring. If
you want to enjoy it, you will enjoy it. You always have to make an investment to get a return. Work
hard and you will be proud of what you accomplish. Seriously, give it your best shot!
Communicate! Let me know if you have concern, needs, or questions.
Be responsible for your learning, belongings, and actions. Bring required supplies
to class every single school day! Be accountable to yourself in your pursuit of your
goals.
Be respectful to others and yourself.
It costs nothing to be polite and courteous. Please be nice.
Be honest. If it is not yours, then do not take it. This applies to
material and academic property. You are here to learn. I encourage
you to help one another, but you should always submit your own
work. You know dishonesty, please do not practice it.
Your education is about you. Take advantage of every
opportunity to learn something new. Ask questions and search for
answers.