Biology Syllabus Fall 2007

Biology

Fall Semester 2007
Ms. Glenda Thomas
Room H-102
E-mail: thomasg2@fulton.k12.ga.us

Textbook: “Biology- The Dynamics of Life”. Glencoe, McGraw-Hill -2002. ($55.95)
The complete textbook comes on CD- ROM. The student may check out a copy from the media center at no cost. For lost or damaged CD’s the cost is $55.95. The textbook also has an interactive website for reinforcment and practice: ga.science.glencoe.com

Course Description
The Biology curriculum continues students’ investigations of the life sciences that began in Grades K-8 (see Fulton County Systemwide Science Vertical Instructional Framework). The course is designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become literate, knowledgeable, and proficient in biology. Biology extends the life sciences to more abstract concepts including, interdependence of organisms, the relationship between matter, energy, and organisms, the behavior or organisms, and evolution. These concepts are investigated through laboratory experiences and fieldwork designed for students to develop appropriate knowledge and skills in science as inquiry. An End of the Course Test (EOCT) will be administered between April 28th and May 2th. The EOCT will cover objectives from both semesters and count 15% of the student’s grade. All students are required to take the EOCT in order to receive credit for the course.

Outcome Expectations
At the end of this course students should be able to:
Use appropriate scientific tools to observe, record, organize, analyze, interpret, write, and present the results of scientific investigations clearly and accurately.
Relate the importance of the chemistry life to cellular structures and functions in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Describe and explain the role of DNA and RNA in transfer of traits to successive generations under both asexual and sexual situations.
Explain the evolutionary basis of modern classification.
Trace the history of the theory of evolution and evaluate the role of natural selection in the development of the theory.
Relate the complexity of organisms to how they obtain, transform, transport, release, and eliminate matter and energy.
Investigate and assess the interdependence between organisms and on the flow of matter within their ecosystems.

Format of Semester: The semester is divided up into the units defined below. There will be a vocaboulary quiz within the unit and a written test at the end of each major unit of study. However, the teacher reserves the right to give more quizzies during certain units based upon the overall need of the students. Quizzes are administered as needed in order to monitor daily and weekly progress.

1. Units of Study and Georgia Performance Standards (GPS): The following is a projected outline of this semester's units of study. Slight changes may be made at the discretion of the teacher. Standards and Elements are taken from the newly adopted Georgia Performance Standards (GPS) for Science and listed in the order taught. The following is a reference internet site for GPS: www.georgiastandards.org



Unit Topic Unit duration
I** Introduction to Biology, Laboratory Safety & Science Process Skills: *Chapter 1 ~2 1/2 weeks
**These GPS are initially addressed in this unit and re-addressed on a regular basis throughout the year**
· GPS - SCSh1: Students will evaluate the importance of curiosity, honesty, openness, and skepticism in science.
· GPS - SCSh2: Students will use standard safety practices for all classroom laboratory and field investigations.
· GPS - SCSh3: Students will indentify and investigate problems scientifically.
· GPS - SCSh4: Students will use tools and instruments for observing, measuring and manipulating in scientific equipment and materials.
· GPS - SCSh5: Students will demonstrate the computation and estimation skills necessary for analyzing data and developing reasonable explanations
· GPS - SCSh6: Students will communicate scientific investigations and information clearly.
· GPS – SCSh 7: Students will analyze how scientific knowledge is developed.
· GPS – SCSh 8: Students will understand important features of the process of scientific inquiry.
· GPS – SCSh 9: Students will enhance reading in all curriculum areas.

II Ecology: *Chapters 2-5 ~3 1/2weeks
GPS – SB4: Assess the dependence of all organisms on one another and the flow of energy and matter within their ecosystems.
· SB4a: Investigate relationships among organisms, populations, communities, ecosystems, and biomes
· SB4b: Explain the flow of matter and energy through ecosystems by:
o Arranging components of a food chain according to energy flow.
o Comparing the quantity of energy in the steps of an energy pyramid.
o Explaining the need for cycling of major nutrients (C, O, H, N, P).
· SB4c: Relate environmental conditions to successional changes in ecosystems.
· SB4d: Assess and explain how human activities influence the environment and modify the environment such as global warming, population growth, pesticide use, and water and power consumption.
· SB4e: Relate plant adaptations, including tropisms, to the ability to survive stressful environmental conditions.
· SB4f: Relate animal adaptations, including behaviors, to the ability to survive stressful environmental conditions. (This includes some chapter 33 concepts)

III Biochemistry: *Chapter 6 ~2 1/2 weeks
GPS - SB1: Analyze the nature of the relationship between structures and functions in living cells
· SB1c: Identify the function of the four major macromolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids)
· SB1b: Explain how enzymes function as catalysts. (Explain how enzymes relate to protein structure)

Cellular Structure & Cellular Energy: *Chapters 7, 8.1, & 9 ~ 4 1/2 weeks
GPS - SB1: Analyze the nature of the relationship between structures and functions in living cells
· SB1a: Explain the role of cell organelles for both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including the cell membrane, in maintaining homeostasis and cell reproduction.
· SB1b: Explain how enzymes function as catalysts.
· SB1d: Explain the impact of water on life processes (i.e. osmosis, diffusion)
GPS – SB3: Students will derive the relationship between single-celled and multi-celled organisms and the increasing complexity of systems. (The majority of this standard is covered 2nd semester)
· SB3a: Explain the cycling of energy through the processes of photosynthesis and respiration.

IV Mendelian Genetics, Molecular Genetics & Biotechnology: *Chapters 8.2, 10-13 ~ 4 weeks
GPS - SB2: Analyze how biological traits are passed on to successive generations
· SB2c: Using Mendel’s laws, explain the role of meiosis in reproductive variability.
· SB2e: Compare the advantages of sexual and asexual reproduction in different situations.
· SB2a: Distinguish between DNA and RNA.



2. Grade Determination : Grade Scale for Fulton Co. :
Unit Tests 40% A = 100-90
Lab Reports & Projects 25% B = 89-80
Homework/ class work, 10% C = 79-70
Comprehensive Final Exam(or EOCT) 15% F = 69 or below
Quizzes 10%

3. Tests Quizzes, and Exams:
Written tests will be given approximately every two or three weeks or upon completion of
each major unit of study. Tests will include information from class notes, textbook, labs, handouts,
homework, etc.
B. There will be a Comprehensive Final Exam given at the end of each semester.
C. You will not talk during testing. If you and who you are talking to do not have a test, you will be given a
detention and your parents contacted. Continued talking will result in a referral. If you or who you are
talking to have a test out, you wil recieve a grade of zero for and an honor code violation form.
D. All quizzes are announced. Therefore, each student should spend ample time each day going over vocabulary
and/or material covered in class.
4. Homework: Homework will be assigned periodically, collected, and graded without warning, throughout the
semester. Each student is expected to turn in all of his or her homework assignments for a grade..
· Late homework: Students are only allowed 2 late homework grades PER SEMESTER for the maximum reduced grade of 50%. In order to receive late credit, the late homework assignment MUST be turned the day after it was originally due or it will NOT be accepted.
Completion of homework is very important to success in the course; therefore, no exceptions to this policy will be made other than those situations where extended absences is a factor. Additional late or misplaced (locker, home, etc.) homework assignments will NOT be accepted.
9th grade students who obtain more than two zeros for homework will become subject to “silent lunch” tracking and may receive silent lunch if they habitually do not complete homework assignments.
5. Laboratory Reports / Assessments
A. Lab activity worksheets will be provided to you for each Lab. After it has been graded and returned, it should be kept in your notebook at ALL times.
B. Lab reports are ALWAYS part of the Lab worksheets.
C. Lab Make-up: Every Tuesday after school. The date for Lab make-up sessions will be posted on the walls for ALL students to see and to keep track of. It will be the student’s responsibility to make plans to attend make-up sessions OR to make special arrangements with Ms. Thomas for make-ups.
D. All labs must be made-up within one week of the day that the lab was assigned or a grade of zero will be given.
**Even though students may work together during lab activities, each student is responsible for completing and
storing his or her own labs. Students who are found to be copying another student’s work or using another
student’s exact words/thoughts will receive a zero for the Lab.
6. Make-up Policy:
a. Students are expected to take scheduled tests even if they are absent the day before the test.
b. All tests MUST be made up within 5 school days of an absence or a grade of "zero" will be given.
c. It is YOUR responsiblitiy to arrange make-up woth the teacher.
7. Recovery policy: Provision for Improving Grades
a) Opportunities designed to allow students to recover from a low or
failing cumulative grade will be allowed when all work required to date has been completed and the student has
demonstrated a legitimate effort to meet all course requirements including attendance.
b) Students should contact the teacher concerning recovery opportunities. Teachers are expected to establish a
reasonable time period for recovery work to be completed during the semester. All recovery work must be
directly related to course objectives and must be completed ten school days prior to the end of the semester.
c) Teachers will determine when and how students with extenuating circumstances may improve their grades.
CHATTAHOOCHEE POLICY:
“Recovery is available to students with a cumulative grade below 74% after a minimum of two (2) major grades. The maximum grade a student can earn for a recovery activity is 70%. There will be only one recovery opportunity per failed major assignment or test. The individual teacher will determine the means of recovery. THE STUDENT MUST INITIATE THE PROCESS WITHIN FIVE (5) DAYS OF NOTIFICATION OF A FAILING GRADE ON A MAJOR ASSIGNMENT/TEST.”

8. Honor Code Violations: Any act of cheating, "either by giving or receiving a gradable experience", will be considered
a violation of the honor code. I will complete an honor code violation form which "may be used by the faculty in
making future recommendations, specifically memberships in honor clubs." I will also inform your parents of the
violation and you will receive a grade of "zero" on that graded assignment. Cheating is defined as: Any sharing of
information in a non-collaborative situation (i.e. tests, quizzes, Labs, homework, etc.) regarding a graded assignment.
You may recieve a grade of zero for talking during a test, quiz, or exam.

*Students may be asked to submit certain assignments through an internet program called TurnItIn.com. This program gives students the opportunity to review their own writing and correct possible plagiarism errors, thereby not violating the Honor Code.
9. Technology Code of Ethics: According to the Fulton County Schools policy "students shall not alter or attempt to
alter school or private property including technology hardware and software." This includes: a) changing desktop
settings or control panels b) removing or damaging mouse tracking balls, keys, cables, connectors, network jacks, or
any other hardware c) modifying computer software d) damaging computer disks, CD-ROMS, or other media.
**STUDENTS MAY NOT USE CLASSROOM COMPUTERS WITHOUT DIRECT TEACHER SUPERVISION
AND PERMISSION.**
10. Extra Help: .
A. Students in jeopardy of failing should consult with me immediately for extra help and for ways to strengthen their science skills as a means of improving their grade
B. The textbook provides an interactive website with extra activities to help strengthen
students biology skills: ga.science.glencoe.com
C. The morning before each major UNIT TEST, Mrs. Leadford or Ms. Thomas will hold a
A test study and review session.
D. Each 9th grade student is encouraged to attend study skills workshops sponsored by the
counseling department. Bonus points are given in biology for attending these worksops.
11. Class Rules:
a. Be in your SEAT when the Tardy bell rings. Anyone not in their seat when the tardy bell
rings will be counted Tardy.
b. Be respectful of other students, teachers and their respective property.
c. Bring all required materials to class, including textbook, notebooks with paper & pencil/pen.
d. Obey ALL school rules
e. Absolutely no talking when the teacher or a quest speaker is talking
f. Absolutely no getting out of your seat without permission for any reason.
**Failure to follow class rules will result in a call home to parents and/or one or more of the following:
1) warning 2) private detention 3) formal disciplinary report along with a trip to the appropriate administrator.
12. Lab Rules:
a. ALL Laboratory rules must be followed during Laboratory activities.
b. Laboratory rules are outlined in the Lab Safety Contract provided to each student.
c. Failure to follow Laboratory Safety Rules will result in a call home to parents and/or
one or more of the following: 1) warning 2) private detention 3) Loss of points on Lab
grades 4) a referral form to an administrator.
13. Notebook: Eeach student is encouraged to keep a notebook. Only biology material is allowed in your notebbok.
You will need a three ring binder with dividers. It should be in the following order: Section one: syllabus, lab
safety contract, computer grade sheet print outs Section two: lecture notes Section three: vocabulary words
Section four: graded and returned worksheets, handouts, labs, and projects Section five: graded and returned test
and quizzes
14. SCHOOLNOTES.COM
You may view this website for a weekly calendar of activities for Biology. (This includes classwork, labs, test, and
Quizzes) ZIP: 30022 LOOK FOR: Glenda Thomas -Biology

Human Anatomy and Physiology Syllabus

Human Anatomy and Physiology
Fall Semester 2007
Ms. G. Thomas Room H102
Email: ThomasG2@fulton.k12.ga.us


Textbook: “Introduction to the Human body”.
J. Wiley & Son. 2001
(Cost of Replacement $76.80)

1. Course Description and Georgia Performance Standards (GPS): Human Anatomy &
Physiology deals with the levels of organizations that characterize living things and the
various individual body systems that cooperate with one another to maintain the health of the
whole body. This course includes facts and ideas students need to develop an understanding
of the human body. It covers science process skills, basic vocabulary, health concerns, and the
anatomy & physiology of the human body systems.

UNIT 1: Body Organization (Chapter 1)
1. Analyze organization of human body using appropriate anatomical terminology.
* 2. The student will use science process skills in the laboratory or field investigations:
including observation, classification, communication, metric measurements,
predictions, inferences, collecting and analyzing data.
* 3. Use traditional reference materials to explore background and historical information
regarding scientific concepts.
* 4. Learn and use, on a regular basis, standard safety practices for laboratory or field
investigation.
* GPS’s covered throughout the course

UNIT 2: Cells and Tissues (Chapters 3-4)
5. Compare the structures and functions of the cell.
6. Analyze the general characteristics and functions of major tissue types.
UNIT 3: Integumentary System (Chapter 5)
7. Explain the structures and function of the components of the integumantary system.
UNIT 4: Skeletal System (Chapters 6-7)
8. Explain the functions of the skeletal system and the classification and functions of the
joints.
UNIT 5: Muscular Systems (Chapter 8)
9. Compare the structure, location, and function of smooth, cardiac, and skeletal muscle.
10. Analyze the physiology of muscle integration and coordination
UNIT 6: Nervous System (Chapters 9-12)
11. Relate the sensory coordination and regulatory functions of the nervous system.
12. Analyze the physiology of various receptors associated with the somatic and special
senses.
UNIT 7: Endocrine System (Chapter 13)
13. Describe the location, structure, and function of the endocrine glands.




2. GRADING SCALE: Fulton County grading scale will be used for all graded assignments.
A= 100-90 B=89-80 C=79-70 Below 70 is failing
Point Distribution:
Major Unit Test-------------------------------------- 40%
Quizzes ----------------------------------------------- 10%
Class work/Homework----------------------------- 10%
Laboratory & Participation ----------------------- 25%
Comprehensive Final Exam ----------------------- 15%


3. TESTS & QUIZZES: a. A written unit test is given at the end of each Unit (one or more chapters). Tests include information from class notes, your anatomy and physiology textbook, lab activities, handouts, demonstrations and any other information the instructor deems pertinent to the test material. Students are expected to take scheduled tests and quizzes even if they are absent the day(s) before the test.
b. A written quiz over terminology or lab information will be given within each unit. All quizzes are announced at the beginning of each unit.
C. You will not talk during testing. If you and who you are talking to do not have a test, you will be given a
detention and your parents contacted. Continued talking will result in a referral. If you or who you are
talking to have a test out, you will receive a grade of zero for and an honor code violation form. d. A comprehensive final exam will be given at the end of the semester and will count 15% of your final grade. Be prepared for this. Quizzes are given as needed, some are announced and some are unannounced.
**** ALWAYS BE PREPARED FOR TESTS AS THEY COUNT 40% OF YOUR GRADE.
4. LABORATORY: a. Lab activities are done every one or two weeks and may last one day or several days depending on the activity. b. All lab work is graded and must be made up if you are absent. c. In the event a lab cannot be made up because dissectible have been discarded and are no longer available, the missed lab will be counted as a ZERO. (All this means is that you have waited too long to make up your work). d. LAB PRACTICALS ARE GIVEN AS MATERIAL IS COVERED. SOME COUNT AS A REGULAR TEST (40% -YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED WHEN THIS OCCURS)
5. BEHAVIOR IN THE LABORATORY ENVIRONMENT: Safety is of the foremost importance in the laboratory environment. Any student whose behavior creates a dangerous situation either to him or his fellow students will be immediately removed from the laboratory situation and disciplinary action will be taken. Continuous infractions will result in the student making up the lab(s) at an alternate time under the direct supervision of the teacher.
6. HOMEWORK and CLASS WORK: 1. Homework and class work is given on a regular basis. It is very important to do YOUR homework as it reinforces work taught in class and helps to prepare you for tests. It is collected and graded at the discretion of the teacher.
*ONLY 50 points can be given for LATE work. (Late work is work not turned in during the class period and date that it is due.) Homework and class work counts 10% of your grade.


7. MAKE-UP WORK: All missed work must be made up; this includes labs, projects, and technology assignments. See teacher for missed assignments.
Fulton County policy states that a student has a "DAY FOR A DA Y" to make up missed work. TEST must be made up in a WEEK. Failure to make up any missed work will result in a zero. This is an UNRECOVERABLE zero.

8. EXTRA HELP:
Students in jeopardy of failing should consult me immediately for ways to strengthen their
science skills as a means of improving their grade. All students are encouraged to:
a. utilize the website (http://www.wiley.com/college/black) for help
b. Outline the chapter for bonus points (This must be turned in to me before I
present the lecture notes on the chapter to the class)
c. prepare flash cards on quiz and test material for bonus points
d. The HOMEWORK HOTLINE operates from 5:00- 8:30 p.m. and can be
reached at (404) 843- 7700.

9. CHATTAHOOCHEE HIGH SCHOOL RECOVERY GUIDELINES:
a) Opportunities designed to allow students to recover from a low or failing cumulative grade will be allowed
when all work required to date has been completed and the student has demonstrated a legitimate effort to
meet all course requirements including attendance.
b) Students should contact the teacher concerning recovery opportunities. Teachers are expected to establish a
reasonable time period for recovery work to be completed during the semester. All recovery work must be
directly related to course objectives and must be completed ten school days prior to the end of the semester.
c) Teachers will determine when and how students with extenuating circumstances may improve their grades.

Recovery is available to students with a cumulative grade below 74% after a minimum of two (2) major grades. The maximum grade a student can earn for a recovery activity is 70%. There will be only one recovery opportunity per failed major assignment or test. The individual teacher will determine the means of recovery. THE STUDENT MUST INITIATE THE PROCESS WITHIN FIVE (5) DAYS OF NOTIFICATION OF A FAILING GRADE ON A MAJOR ASSIGNMENT/TEST.
10. PARENT CONNECT: Parents may log on to "parent connect" to view their student's . grades and progress.
11. CLASSROOM BEHA VIOR: All student handbook rules and policies will be enforced in . . class. Expected classroom behaviors are as follows:
a. Be in your seat when the bell rings.
b. Bring all materials to class every day including your textbook.
c. Stay in your seat during instructional time unless otherwise directed by the teacher. 4. Raise
your hand to be recognized if you have a question. Blurting out questions or inappropriate
comments is unacceptable.
d. No eating, drinking or sleeping in class.
e. Instruction is from bell to bell; that means you may not line up at the door before the bell rings.
f. Use the restroom before coming to class.
g. Be respectful to your teacher and classmates.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW CLASSROOM PROCEDURE WILL RESULT IN A PRIVATE DETENTION, A PHONE CALL HOME AND/OR A TRIP TO THE APPROPRIATE ADMINISTRATOR.

12. HONOR CODE VIOLATION: I will strictly enforce the honor code policy. Any act of cheating "either by giving or receiving information about a gradable experience" will be considered a violation. I will complete the Honor Code Violation form, which will be filed and may be used by the faculty in making future recommendations specifically memberships in honor clubs (NHS, BETA). I will inform your parents of the violation and you will receive a grade of zero. This is a non-recoverable offense. Please refer to your handbook.
Students may be asked to submit certain assignments through an internet program called TurnItIn.com. This program gives students the opportunity to review their own writing and correct possible plagiarism errors, thereby not violating the Honor Code.


13. TECHNOLOGY CODE OF ETHICS: According to Fulton County Schools policy, "students shall not alter or attempt to alter school private property including technology hardware and software." This includes:
a. changing desktop settings or control panels on computers
b. removing or damaging mouse-tracking balls, keyboards, cables, connectors, network jacks, or any other hardware
c. modifying computer software or damaging computer disk, CD-ROMS or other media
***STUDENTS MAY NOT USE THE CLASSROOM COMPUTERS

14. EXTRA CREDIT All students regardless of average or consistency of turning in homework,
can help to improve their average by doing the following activities:
a) Note Cards (Flash Cards) for vocabulary quizzes and test. (Due the day of the test or
quiz)
b) Chapter summaries in an outline form. ( Must be completed and turned in to the teacher
before lecture notes are covered in class)


15. SCHOOLNOTES.COM
You may view this website for a weekly calendar of activities for Anatomy and Physiology. (This
includes class work, labs, test, and Quizzes) ZIP: 30022 LOOK FOR: Glenda Thomas -Anatomy