CP Biology Course Syllabus

CP Biology Course Syllabus
2009-2010
Teacher: D. Rickey
Room: 185
Text: Holt Biology
drickey@suhsd.net
Course Description: This class is designed to give you an understanding of
the living world and their interactions with each other and the environment.
This course will consist of hands-on activities and labs, individual and group
work, homework, projects, quizzes, and tests. This class will be integrated with
technology and many assignments will include the use of computers.
Course Objective: Biology is a class designed to introduce students to
important and relevant biological ideas and concepts. Content includes the
study of cells, microbiology, genetics, ecology, plants, animals, and anatomy
and physiology. Laboratory experiments are in important component of the
course provided to stimulate critical thinking as well as reinforce and expand
upon content covered in class.
Materials Needed:
1. 3-ring binder to keep all material handed out or graded and returned.
2. 2 - Black composition notebooks 1 for vocabulary, 1 for
labs/notes/HW
3. Writing utensils
a. Pens
b. Pencils
c. Colored pencils
Classroom Expectations / Student Conduct:
1. Arrive to class on time with all materials.
a. Every third tardy will result in lunch or after school detention if
this is a continual problem.
2. Profanity will not be tolerated in the classroom
3. Be respectful of your classmates, your teacher and your
surroundings. Respect each other’s right to learn
4. Do not leave the classroom without permission
5. Follow all safety rules
6. Come prepared to work and actively participate in class
7. Follow all rules and guidelines as laid out in the University
Preparatory School student / parent handbook.
8. Face all consequences upon breaking any rules.

Classroom Safety:
1. Be alert and do your best to avoid accidents
2. Equipment and supplies will be handled only after instructions.
Follow directions for each experiment. Ask for help if you are unsure.
3. Immediately report any accidents or unplanned events that occur
4. If chemicals spill on you, wash them off right away; report it to the
teacher right away.
5. Be careful of hot equipment when working with fire.
6. Horse playing is not tolerated. Your lab will be terminated and
consequences will be given.
Grading Policy:
The grade you receive is a reflection of your performance in this course.
You will be as successful as you choose to be. This class works on a point
system.
1. Quizzes, Tests, and exams: Approximately 1-2 quizzes will be given
per chapter. Tests are given upon completion of the chapter. Unit
exams will be administered upon completion of each unit.
2. Homework and Class work: Each homework or class assignment will
be given a point value depending upon the length and difficulty of the
assignment. Late homework will only be accepted for ½ credit
one day after the due date. Homework will not be accepted after
that one day.
3. Reports/Projects: lab reports and projects will be assigned
periodically throughout the year. They should be neat and follow the
criteria specified upon assignment of the report.
4. Grading: letter grades are given as follows
90 – 100% = A
80 – 89% = B
70 – 79% = C
60 – 69% = D
Below 60% = F
Absences and Make up Work:
1. It is the responsibility of the student to come to the teacher when they
have been absent to get the assignments as well as any material
necessary to make up the missed work.
2. You have 2 full days to complete the missed work and turn them in
for full credit. After this the work will be considered late and/or will
not be accepted.
3. Quizzes and tests will be expected to be made up during tutorial or
lunch upon the day of your return. Students will need to schedule
make-ups with the teacher.