(407) BIOLOGY (1)

  • Full year course - Open to grades 10-12 - 4 credits

BIOLOGY (1) is a college preparatory survey course intended to prepare students for further study in science at the college level. Students are expected to take responsibility for missing work and to complete assignments and lab work in a timely manner. The high performance expectations for this course include reading at or above grade level, ability to express oneself in writing, and the ability to analyze data and graphical information as it pertains to a biological system. Course work includes difficult scientific readings, laboratory assignments, exams and quizzes, homework, and projects/presentations. Quizzes and exams involve substantial recall and require the student to demonstrate an understanding of abstract ideas from the synthesis of concrete concepts.
With significant independent study, motivated students in Biology (1) can successfully complete one of the SAT subject tests in Biology (E or M version).

All biology full-year courses are introductory survey courses that cover a wide range of topics including Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Evolution, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Ecology, and Human Anatomy and Physiology. All biology courses include a unit on Fetal Pig Dissection. An emphasis is placed on the process of science and the importance of experimentation and evidence in constructing a framework of knowledge. All Biology courses strive to foster a curiosity about the living world and the interconnectedness of its many varied systems, both on a microscopic as well as macroscopic level. Students are encouraged to explore the social and cultural issues surrounding these topics.
Dissection is an important part of the biology curriculum and a valuable learning experience in which all students are encouraged to participate. The learning objectives of dissection are openly discussed with all students prior to the activity and care is given to address all student questions and acknowledge their concerns. The Science Department strongly supports the ethical, humane, and respectful use of all animals in our curriculum, and understands that for some students dissection poses an ethical conflict, which could prevent them from achieving the learning objectives of the curriculum. Dissection alternatives are available for these students upon request and require a meeting with the teacher to evaluate and discuss the request. Requests must be submitted to the teacher, one week prior to the start of the unit.