Instructor:  Earl Sack
Email: earlsack@me.com
Course Description & Objectives: This is a college-prep biology course that provides a detailed introduction to the methods and concepts of general biology. Modules cover atoms, chemical structures, ecosystems, biomes, ecological communities, cell structure and function, cellular energy, DNA, proteins, cell cycles, and genetics (including inheritance, disorders, and technology). Students will also learn about prokaryotes, viruses, protists, fungi, and the fascinating worlds of plants and animals. Along with lecture, there will be laboratory experiments to provide hands-on reinforcement of concepts presented during lecture.
Grade Level: 9th-12th
Class Time: Tuesday 10:20AM-11:35AM
Course Duration: Full Year
Required Book(s): Exploring Creation with Biology, 3rd Edition by Dincher (www.apologia.com). ***PLEASE NOTE: Because of the differences between the second and third editions, students in a group setting cannot use both. They must all have the 3rd edition***
Required Materials(s): Internet access and email address
Recommended Book(s) and/or Materials(s): Apologia Student Notebook is highly recommended for this class.
Supply Fee: $50 lab fee to cover all materials used during labs
Classroom Expectations: This is an academic class and as such, there is a large amount of reading to keep up with as well as the homework. Students will be expected to spend between 30 minutes to 60 minutes daily in order to stay on track with the workload. Late work is not accepted without instructor approval.
Grading Policies: 10% based on Class Participation, 30% based on Study Guide completion (questions found in reading), 30% based on Module Tests (16 tests total), 30% based on Lab Reports
Grading Scale: 100%-90% A, 89%-80% B, 79%-70% C, 69%-60% D, 59%-0% F