Introduction to Biology

​Biology

Mr. Reed

​Course Description

The five kingdoms of organisms will be investigated, beginning with the chemical basis of life and proceeding from the simplest to the most complex systems in organisms. Lab experimentation will emphasize the scientific method and the nature of problem solving. 

Discovered by Robert Hooke in 1665, the cell has a rich and interesting history that has ultimately given way to many of today’s scientific advancements.

​Matthias Schleiden and Theodor Schwann both studied cells of animals and plants. They discovered significant differences between two types of cells. Cells were not only fundamental to plants, but animals as well.

​Rudolf Virchow - All cells come from other cells.

​Department Goals

• Students will understand and recognize current environmental problems and changes and identify potential solutions. 

• Students will understand and apply the scientific method to modern problems and identify possible solutions. 

​Classroom Expectations

• Notebooks - Students will maintain a daily notebook in all classes. 

• Weekly Grade Checks - Students will check their grades on a weekly basis and attend study hall and tutoring sessions if they are failing or missing assignments.

• Respect - Students are expected to respect themselves, the teacher, others, the classroom, and the equipment in the lab or classroom.

• Engagement - Students will be a part of class discussion and participate in all class activities

• Safe lab practices - Students will follow directions VERY CAREFULLY

​Supplies

• 1 Spiral Notebook

• Pens/pencils

• 1 folder

​Textbook(s)/Readings: Pearson Biology by Miller & Levine (Textbook will be kept in the classroom)

Communication 

Communication from Bishop Ward High School and your teacher will be shared through your Bishop Ward email account. All emails will be answered within 24 hours.  

​BWHS Late Policy and Missing Assignments

• Students will receive a 0 in the gradebook for work not submitted. 

• Students will have 2 class periods from the day the student returns to class for each day of absence to complete work without penalty. More time may be allotted at the teacher's discretion based on discussion with the student.

​Coursework and Outline 

Unit 1: Introduction to Biology

• What is a living thing?

• What is Biology?

• Scientific Methods

Unit 2: Chemistry of Life

• Macromolecules

• Properties of Water

• Acids and Bases

Unit 3: Cells

• Cell structure and function

• Photosynthesis

• Cellular respiration and fermentation

• Cell growth and division

​Unit 4: Energy and Life

• Cell structure and function

• Photosynthesis

• Cellular respiration and fermentation

Unit 5: DNA: The Molecule of Life

• DNA

• Cell growth and division

Unit 6: Genetics

• Inheritance

• RNA & protein synthesis

• Human heredity & genetic disorders

Unit 7: Evolution

• Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection

• Evidence of Evolution

• Classification

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​CK12.org