Biology - Course Syllabus 2026–2027
Instructor: Randy Hernandez
Email: randy@class-source.com
Grade Level: 9th–12th
Class Time: Tuesday@ 12:30pm - 1:25 pm
Course Duration: Full Year
Lab Fee: $50
 
Course Description
Students will explore God’s creation at the cellular, genetic, organismal, and ecological levels through both classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory work. Topics include the scientific method, cellular biology, genetics, microbiology, botany, zoology, human anatomy, and ecology. Students will gain a deeper appreciation for the order and design in creation while developing critical thinking skills and scientific literacy.
 
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Apply the scientific method (hypothesis, experimentation, analysis, conclusion).
Record and analyze data in formal lab reports.
Classify organisms using taxonomy and understand the hierarchy of life.
Interpret and apply genetics principles including Punnett squares, DNA structure, and Mendelian inheritance.
Differentiate between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and explain their structure and function.
Understand key biochemical processes (respiration, photosynthesis, metabolism).
Explain the diversity of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.
Describe the major human body systems and their interdependence.
Recognize the role of ecosystems and God’s providence in sustaining life.
 
 
Required Curriculum & Materials
Exploring Creation with Biology, 3rd Edition (ISBN: 9781946506450)
Dissection kit (optional)
Notebook or binder for notes and lab reports
 
Classroom Expectations
Respect for God, Others, and the Classroom
Treat all with dignity and respect; follow directions promptly.
Technology Use
Devices may only be used when permitted; misuse results in loss of privilege.
Lab Safety
Follow all safety instructions carefully; unsafe behavior will result in removal from lab.
Academic Integrity
Cheating, plagiarism, or copying (including uncredited AI use) is not permitted.
 
Grading Policy
Tests & Quizzes – 40%
Labs & Lab Reports – 25%
Homework & Assignments – 20%
Attendance & Participation – 5%
Projects & Presentations – 10%
 
Grading Scale:
A: 90–100% | B: 80–89% | C: 70–79% | D: 60–69% | F: below 60%
 
Weekly Pacing Guide
 
Quarter 1
Week 1 – Introduction, course overview, scientific method
Week 2 – Module 1: Science & the Scientific Method (part 1)
Week 3 – Module 1 (finish) – Lab: Microscopy Basics
Week 4 – Module 2: Kingdom Monera (Bacteria)
Week 5 – Module 2 (finish) – Lab: Bacterial Cultures
Week 6 – Module 3: Kingdom Protista (Protozoa & Algae)
Week 7 – Module 3 (finish) – Lab: Pond Water Observation
Week 8 – Module 4: Kingdom Fungi – Lab: Fungal Structures
Week 9 – Quarter Exam (Modules 1–4)
 
Quarter 2
Week 10 – Module 5: The Chemistry of Life (intro to biochemistry)
Week 11 – Module 5 (finish) – Lab: Macromolecules
Week 12 – Module 6: The Cell – Structure
Week 13 – Module 6 (finish) – Lab: Cell Models/Microscopy
Week 14 – Module 7: Cellular Processes (respiration, photosynthesis)
Week 15 – Module 7 (finish) – Lab: Photosynthesis/Respiration
Week 16 – Module 8: Genetics – Mendel, Punnett squares
Week 17 – Module 8 (finish) – Lab: Genetics Exercises
Week 18 – Semester Exam (Modules 5–8)
 
Quarter 3
Week 19 – Module 9: Evolution/Scientific Models (creation perspective)
Week 20 – Module 9 (finish) – Discussion/Apologetics tie-in
Week 21 – Module 10: Ecology (ecosystems, biomes)
Week 22 – Module 10 (finish) – Lab: Food Webs/Energy Flow
Week 23 – Module 11: The Invertebrates (Intro, Sponges, Cnidarians)
Week 24 – Module 11 (finish) – Lab: Earthworm Dissection
Week 25 – Module 12: Invertebrates Part 2 (Arthropods, Echinoderms)
Week 26 – Module 12 (finish) – Lab: Crayfish/Grasshopper Dissection
Week 27 – Quarter Exam (Modules 9–12)
 
Quarter 4
Week 28 – Module 13: Chordates Part 1 (Fish & Amphibians)
Week 29 – Module 13 (finish) – Lab: Fish/Perch Dissection
Week 30 – Module 14: Chordates Part 2 (Reptiles & Birds)
Week 31 – Module 14 (finish) – Lab: Bird Identification
Week 32 – Module 15: Mammals & Human Anatomy (intro)
Week 33 – Module 15 (finish) – Lab: Mammalian Anatomy
Week 34 – Module 16: Human Systems & Behavior (part 1)
Week 35 – Module 16 (finish) – Lab: Human Physiology Activities
Week 36 – Final Exam (Modules 13–16)
 
***Note on Pacing
This schedule serves as a guide. The pace and topics may be adjusted at the instructor’s discretion to ensure student mastery.