1. Course description: (1 Credit) The AP Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year. The course is broken down into three general areas: molecules and cells, 25%; heredity and evolution, 25%; and organisms and populations, 50%. The two main goals of AP Biology are to help students develop a conceptual framework for modern biology and to help students gain an appreciation of science as a process. Much of the class time will be spent on laboratory based activities. All students are expected to take the AP exam in May.
2.
Requirements:
A. Text: Biology,
by Campbell, Reece, 7th edition
B. Student
Study Guide for Biology, 7th edition
, -- optional
C. Lab Manual: Biology in the Laboratory,
by Helms, 3rd edition
D. AP Lab Manual: Advanced Placement
Biology
Laboratory Manual for Students, ed. D
3. Grading:
A. Quarter grades:
Tests will count 85%; Labs and Essays will be 15%. The test average for
the quarter will be curved according to the "curve sheet".
Essays and labs are
not
curved. The lowest test score will be dropped providing there are
at least 5 tests in a quarter, and provided the student has taken all
of
the tests.
B. 1st Semester
average:
The semester average will be determined by
(40% Quarter 1
Ave + 40% Quarter 2 Ave + 20% Midterm Ave).
C. 2nd Semester average: The semester average
will be the average of 3rd and 4th quarters.
D. Final average: The final grade
is determined by averaging the first and second semester grades.
E. Final Exam: All students
are expected to take the AP Examination in May.
F. All
grades will be posted on www.mygradebook.com
4. Class Schedule: A syllabus will be provided showing the schedule of all tests and labs. We will try to adhere to this schedule, baring any unforeseen events. The only real flexibility in the schedule is to drop labs or switch days, and this is done if necessary. I will put all of your assignments on Edline and any additional information I want you to have- this may include any schedule changes from the syllabus. You are expected to check this site at the beginning of each week. You are also expected to check your email daily.
5. Labs: All labs are due the following class period, unless you are told otherwise.
6. Tests: Most tests will be 50 multiple choice questions. There are usually 6-8 tests per quarter. If time constraints warrant it, some tests may be scheduled during your free period. Because of the heavy academic load of most students in the AP biology class, it is permissible for you to reschedule a test, but you must check with the teacher, and you may not abuse this privilege or it will be revoked on an individual basis. It is expected that any re-scheduled test would be completed within a few days. Also, you may re-take any test, and the test with the highest grade will count. However, this privilege should be used sparingly, and the teacher may revoke this privilege for anyone who seems to be abusing it. I advise that you wait till near the middle or end of the quarter and retake your lowest test-- if you feel it is necessary.
7. Extra
Credit:
No extra credit is available (except 3rd Q for those who participate in
the Science Olympiad).