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This class is designed to follow the scope and sequence of Sophomore Biology with the exception that we will be investigating these topics in greater detail. It is assumed that placement in this class indicates an interest in science and therefore I will be providing ample opportunity for in depth investigations and problem-solving.

Students will be expected to provide exemplary work, design experiments, analyze data, and provide thoughtful feedback regarding lab situations. There will be a few group projects which will allow students to work on interpersonal skills as communication is an integral part of science.

Field trips and guest speakers will be available to students who are interested in Biotechnology and we will be participating in the Biotechnology Fair this Spring. Summer Institute information will also be made available to those students who are interested.

Goals and Objectives

The goal of this course is to provide students with an open environment of exploration of scientific concepts. Students are encouraged to be creative and have fun while maintaining a high level of academic excellence.

Requirements

*Come to class Prepared!

This means:

-Read text assignments.

-Turn in assignments on time.

-Bring text to class.

-Bring a writing utencil.

-Turn in assignments on time.

(Did I mention this?)

Bio News

*Due the 20th of every month

*Find newspaper, magazine, or Internet article about Biology

*Write a 2 paragraph summary of news article. Must be typed to receive full credit.

*Cite the source: Title, author, URL, etc... PROPERLY!!!!

You may e-mail me your summary or turn it in to the Honors box. I will not remind you of this, so write it in your planner.

Grades - Or how do I get an "A" ?

Tests

*Tests will be given for every chapter. They will vary in nature. Make up tests for absences will be in essay format and if you will be gone for a sport, you will need to take the test ahead of time.

*We will review material in class, but it is recommended that a few minutes of study time each day be incorporated into the student's study plans.

Quizzes

*Every Monday

*Cover Reading assignments

*Maybe unannounced

Projects

*In class preparation

*Group and Individual

*Involve Library/Internet research

*Presented in class

Lab Write Ups

Instructions

*Observations, data gathering/organizing, graphing, interpretation of data, conclusions

*Microscope observations

Frequently Asked Questions

*Don't count on extra credit, there is some available, but do it right the first time!

*Projects are flexible in design, NOT due date. Turn in all assignments on time.

*No dropped or retaken tests.

*Quiz every Monday unless otherwise stated.

Study Strategies

http://www.uic.edu/depts/counselctr/ace/practic.htm