Honors Biology
2008-2009
Mrs. Amy Vohsing
Everyone is gifted. Some blossom sooner than others!
This biology course is a fast paced course designated for the serious science student. We will study all of life by analyzing the creation of a cell as well as the organization of the environment.
This class will contemplate and inspect the theories of: ecology, cells, genetics, taxonomy, evolution, microbiology, plants, animals and anatomy. We will bring “current research” into the classroom through discussion, homework, projects and mini labs. Laboratory experiments, dissections and demonstrations will take place periodically through the year.
Emphasis will be placed on UNDERSTANDING and USING a scientific principle as well as rote memorization. Tests will include application questions which will test your knowledge of the concept studied.
My teaching philosophy is- Firm Fair & Fun!
Weekly Syllabus: I will post a weekly syllabus on Fri/Mon of every week on the NC bulletin board. The bulletin board can be found on the webpage under current events. This will have information on what we plan to cover every day, homework, vocabulary, tests, and any updates on the grading policy. I have found this to be a valuable tool for those who want to work ahead or for those who are absent.
Interesting (I know this word is subjectiveJ) science articles will also be posted on the Bulletin Board & may be used to obtain extra points on examinations!
*Grading Policy:
Tests & Quizzes 25% Labs /PSL/ML 25%
Homework 25% Reports/Ntbk 25%
*will change quarterly/Check NC BB
Tests will be worth more throughout the year
NO EXTRA CREDIT WILL BE GIVEN!!
Grading scale: per school policy.
A 100-93 C 76-73
A- 92-90 C- 72-70
B+ 87-89 D+ 69-67
B 86-83 D 66-63
B- 82-80 D- 62-60
C+ 79-77 F Below 60
Test format: Examinations and quizzes will be objective style including multiple choice, fill-in, true-false, matching, labeling, short definitions, and short answer essay. You will be expected to USE the knowledge you have acquired in class and APPLY it.
Missed quizzes/tests: Please try not to miss any examinations. The examinations will be DIFFERENT from those given in class and may include an essay approach. They can be taken after school.
Homework: A variety of assignments will be due ON TIME! ALL WORK should be placed in the BASKET on my desk!
Labs & Projects: Grading scale may change to accommodate these activities. Labs are to be turned in ON TIME. A lab test will be given periodically through the year. There will be at least one project per quarter.
Technology: We will use the IVDL lab to view currently discussed science topics. Lap top computers will also be used to extend outside the classroom to tap into other scientific resources.
Notebooks: You will need a three ring binder to hold ALL of your work. YOU will be responsible for holding onto your work for the quarter in case there is a grade discrepancy. You will need loose leaf paper (or computer paper) to take notes, and dividers (7). Try to also have some sort of pocket and/or folder for those items that don’t have 3 ring holes and index cards (optional for vocabulary).
Notebook sections: Notes, Problem solving labs PSL, Mini Labs ML, Homework and Reports, Labs, Quizzes, and Tests
Plagiarism will be dealt with harshly!! REFER TO ACADEMIC CODE!!!!
I will treat you like young, respectful, Christian adults and will expect you to treat others the same way! There is NO excuse for rude or bad behavior.
I am looking forward to a wonderful year teaching Honors Biology!! The subject can be a lot of work but also a lot of fun!! Welcome back to all of you! Mrs. Vohsing J
avohsing @laca.org
We are also matched with a class in Bulgaria through Worldwise Studies!
Field trips: Stream Ecology (local water testing)
Speakers: Monarch Release, Lifeline-organ donation
WEBPAGE*
Go to NC homepage. Click on Departments…click on individual courses…go to Science…..click on Mrs. Vohsing’s webpage!! J