BIOLOGY

ELLSWORTH HIGH SCHOOL MRS. FALABELLA 2013 - 2014

A Quote to Think About: The important thing in science is not so much to obtain new facts as to discover new ways of thinking about them. - William Lawrence Bragg Why we study Biology?
We study biology like any other subject so that we can gain a better understanding of how our world works. In todays society having a strong understanding of biology allows us to be an informed patient, citizen, and consumers. The topics of biology are a constant subject in our society and making major headlines. Understanding biology is the same general knowledge that allows us to grow a plant, know what is a good nutritional diet, and even understand our family tree. We can not learn about biological sciences without having an understanding of chemistry. We will be exploring biology through the context of chemistry. During this course we will be investigating the concepts of scientific study, biological molecules, the

CONTACT INFORMATION:
jfalabella@rsu24.org
https://sites.google.com/a/rsu24.org/jfalabella/ * Visit the webpage daily for updates in our schedule , vocabulary terms, assignments, and links to important resources.

structure and interactions of the cell, genetics, biochemistry, evolution, the interactions of living things, the role of energy in those interactions. Biology is a laboratory science. Some of our laboratories will be inquiry-based. You and your lab partner will have to design your own laboratory procedure to answer a given question.

Every human being shares 99% of their DNA with every other human. The 1% of our DNA that is different is most likely due to a difference in the amount of nucleotides.

COURSE RESOURCES:
Biology, by Miller and Levin, 2014. Our textbook is an etext. You will have access to the text on your iPad (does not require internet access). Your test and quizzes will be taken via Juno. Juno is an online testing site.

TOPICS AT A GLANCE:
Biochemistry The Cell: From Structure & Function to Energy Cellular Inheritance & Genetics DNA & Gene Regulation Evolution Population Ecology CLASS EXPECTATIONS:
Mrs. Falabella will . . . respect all students and expect the same in return. be available for students after school (by appointment). allow you to listen to music; however, it is a privilege not a right. You will not be listening to music when it would be distracting to you or your fellow classmates. You can listen during individual work time. provide you with adequate time to complete all assignments. You will . . . respect all students and expect the same in return. be prepared for class. have your iPad ready for use in the classroom. Being off task with your iPad will result in an after school detention. be responsible for your assignment, dont let yourself or your group suffer. Read the directions! be responsible for attending any study sessions or academic supports. be an active listener by making eye contact and being prepared to answer questions. be a collaborative partner during group activities. follow all safety guidelines for laboratory activities. follow the EHS guidelines from the student handbook. abide by Mrs. Falabellas Cell Phone Policy Sign that you have read and understand the syllabus: _____________

Grading Breakdown: Unit Tests Concept Quizzes* Vocabulary* Homework Quizzes* 25 % 30 % 15 % 15 %

Laboratories-Projects 15 %
* Lowest grade will be dropped.

A Tip for Success: Be in school EVERYDAY!

If you miss class, check in with your Study Group and the webpage. It is is your responsibility to get your make-up work.