Instructor:  Randy Hernandez
Email: randy@class-source.com
Grade Level: 10th-12th
PreRequisites: High School Biology
Class Time: Thursday 1:30PM-2:25PM
Course Description: In this course, we will study marine ecosystems, oceanography, marine invertebrates and vertebrates, plankton, marine plants, and the impact of human activities on the ocean. Emphasis will be placed on the ecological roles of marine organisms and the evidence of design in their complexity and interactions.
Course Objectives: In this course, we will cover:
Marine ecology: Food webs, symbiosis, and nutrient cycles.
Oceanography: Waves, tides, currents, and marine geology.
Marine invertebrates: Sponges, cnidarians, mollusks, and echinoderms.
Marine vertebrates: Fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Plankton and marine plants: Their role in oxygen production and food webs.
Human impact: Pollution, conservation, and stewardship.
Course Duration: Full Year
Required Book(s): Exploring Creation with Marine Biology (2nd Edition) {ISBN: 978-1940110950}
Required Materials(s): Internet access and email address
Recommended Book(s) and/or Materials(s): Exploring Creation with Marine Biology - Student Notebook {ISBN 978-1940110981}
Supply Fee: $50 lab fee to cover all materials used during labs
Classroom Expectations:
Respect for God, Others, and the Classroom
Treat the teacher, classmates, and classroom materials with respect.
Speak and act in a manner that honors God, avoiding disrespectful or inappropriate behavior.
Follow directions the first time they are given.
Take care of all equipment and materials, ensuring they remain in good condition for future use.
Notify the teacher ahead of time if a planned absence will interfere with lab work or tests
Use of Technology
Personal devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, etc.) must be silenced and put away during class unless explicitly allowed for an assignment.
Laptops or tablets may be used for note-taking or research only when permitted.
Misuse of technology (such as texting, gaming, or social media) will result in loss of privileges.
Calculators are allowed when necessary for scientific calculations.
Lab Safety & Conduct
Follow all lab safety rules as instructed..
Academic integrity
Properly document lab reports, research, and citations when necessary.
Cheating or plagiarism will not be tolerated.
Work must be original. Copying from classmates or online sources/AI without citations will not be tolerated.
Grading Policies:
Tests & Quizzes: 40%
Includes unit tests, module quizzes, and the final exam.
Focuses on understanding key concepts, vocabulary, and application of knowledge.
Labs & Lab Reports: 25%
Includes hands-on experiments, data analysis, and formal lab reports.
Assesses accuracy, thoroughness, and ability to follow the scientific method.
Homework & Assignments: 20%
Includes textbook questions, worksheets, and written assignments.
Evaluates comprehension of readings and ability to apply concepts.
Attendance & Participation: 5%
Based on being present, on time, and actively engaged in discussions and activities.
Includes contributions to group work and attentiveness during lectures.
Projects & Presentations: 10%
Includes research projects, oral presentations, and special assignments.
Assesses research skills, creativity, and ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively.
Grading Scale: A: 90–100% (Excellent understanding and performance) • B: 80–89% (Good understanding and performance) • C: 70–79% (Satisfactory understanding and performance) • D: 60–69% (Needs improvement) • F: 59% and below (Failing)