• Biology Syllabus

      Instructor:  Jackie Jeter

    Room:  507

    Planning period: 10:42-11:31

    E-mail address: jjeter@santoisd.net

    Phone: 940-769-3847

       Textbook: Texas Biology, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 2015

     Course Description: Biology is devoted to the study of living things and their processes. Throughout the year this course provides an opportunity for students to develop scientific process skills, laboratory techniques, and an understanding of the fundamental principles of living organisms. Students will explore biological science as a process, cell structure and function, genetics and heredity, evolution and classification, diversity of living organisms and their ecological roles, and an introduction to animal structure and function. An end of course test (EOC) will be administered in May, which covers objectives for both semesters.

     Objectives/Goals:

    • Teach students practical scientific skills, which they can use to investigate, study and

    explain the world around them.

    • Give students a deeper understanding of the how biology impacts their daily lives.
      • To encourage the spirit of scientific investigation and with it the attitudes of accuracy

                 in thought and work.

    Grading:

    • Each quarter grade will consist of 40% Daily, 5% Quizzes, and 55% Test grades

    Tests may include chapter exams, lab exams, and major projects .Daily work may include class work, homework, labs, activities, and participation.

    • Laboratories-- laboratories are a mandatory part of this class. Laboratory reports are

     required on some labs.

    • Major Projects --research projects may be assigned throughout the year. Each project

           will include a handout of details, expectations, and grading.

     

    Your SUCCESS depends upon the following:

    • A desire to succeed
    • Good attendance- it is very difficult to earn a good grade if you are not in class.
    • Preparedness- bring class materials with you each class meeting. (writing utensils, paper, folder.)
    • Participation- make every effort to ask questions and get involved during class as this promotes learning.  You may also be required to listen to lecture and video at home prior to class discussions!
    • Completion of assignments- if your work is not turned in on time and completed, you will suffer a loss of points.

     I am here to help you succeed, so feel free to ask me for help. I am available before and after school in my room during tutorials.

    • Ask lots of questions. If you are unclear about something from the textbook, lab, or from discussion, ask.
    • Start studying for tests early. By studying and reviewing each night you are not only helping to prepare for the test more effectively, you are also more prepared for class each day and any quizzes that may be given.

     

    Notebook/journal:  You will be responsible for keeping a binder of all Biology  information. You will also keep a “science journal.” These notebooks should accompany you to each class session and will be checked periodically for completeness and organization.

     

    Classroom policy:

    • Late Homework – without an excused absence, will be reduced by 10 points for each day late. After 3rd day, you receive a zero! Please no whining or excuses!
    • I will drop one daily grade each six-week period.
    • Makeup Work
    • If you are absent it is your responsibility to obtain any assignments you missed while you were gone. ( SEE the “Bug Board”)
    • Approved absences – you have one day for each excused absence to make up your work. This includes daily grades and test.
    • Missed exams must be taken before or after school within the time allowed.IF YOU ARE ABSENT THE DAY BEFORE THE TEST, YOU WILL STILL TAKE THE TEST ON THE SAME TEST DAY AS THE OTHER STUDENTS!
    • RETEST: may be taken if you score below a 70. *Corrections written 3x’s each, 30 mins of tutorial time before test, must be done BEFORE/AFTER school!
    • If you are absent during a lab you must make special arrangements to come in before or after school to make up the lab or get and alternative assignment.

     

     Cheating/ Plagiarism:

    • Cheating on a test or assignment will result in a grade of zero for all involved.
    • Data for lab reports must be taken during lab. Copying of lab data after lab is not allowed. Each student is responsible for individual lab reports unless specifically stated by teacher.

    Classroom Expectations:

    • Students are expected to be in their seat and ready when the bell rings.
    • Materials (pencil, paper, and notebook) must be brought to class each day. .
    • The laboratory or room must be clean at the end of the period before leaving.
    • Treat everyone with respect.
    • Follow the instructions given by teacher.
    • All school rules will be followed as stated in the student handbook.
    • Be dismissed by the TEACHER NOT the BELL!