Biology 1A

BIOLOGY

Course Description

Rationale

Course Description

Biology is designed for freshman students beginning their study of science. The course will cover cells of plants and animals, DNA, genetics, cellular reproduction, classification of the living organisms, structures and functions of organisms within each kingdom, and ecology. Students will be expected to work in lab groups, do homework/projects and participate in discussions.

Rationale

In order for students to pursue further biological studies, a strong background in current biological theory and practice is necessary. In Biology an understanding of these major themes and topics are thoroughly discussed. Specifically this class examines biology from the cellular approach. A foundation in cellular anatomy and genetics leads to understanding nature's processes, such as photosynthesis and respiration. Patterns and relationships among living organisms are traced back to their chromosomal beginnings. The understanding of the transfer of energy requires not only knowledge of food webs but how that food is metabolized and ultimately returned to nature upon the death of the organism.

Course Goals

To acquire an overview of biological concepts and their interrelatedness
To evaluate relationships
To analyze scientific information
To predict outcomes
To conduct laboratory investigation

COMPETENCIES AND STATE ALIGNMENT

Competency	Activities	Assessment
1. Identify cell organelles and their functions.	Plasmolysis Lab 12 Egg Lab Basic Unit Of Life lab 10	Cell Models
2. Compare and contrast the characteristics of organic molecules	Carbohydrate Lab 6 Protein Lab 7 Fat Lab 8 Enzyme Lab 9	Concept Maps
3. Analyze the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration.	Eloda Lab 15 Photosynthesis Color Lab Cottonwood Stomata Lab	Plant Story
4. Present evidence of the understanding of the significance of DNA to life	Finding Phenotypes and Genotypes For One Trait Finding Phenotypes And Genotypes For Two Traits DNA And RNA tRNA And Protein Building Pedigree Studies A Chromosome Study Sex-Linked Or Not Sex-Linked? Corn Lab Make a Face Construct a DNA Model	Genetic Disorder Brochure
5. Use tools, measurement and scientific method to conduct investigations of the natural world.	Use Of The Light Microscope 2 Techniques For Better Microscope Use 3 Stoichiometry Lab Using SI Units Lab 5	Lab Practical
6. Create and use a classification key	Shark Classification Phylum Comparison Lab 39 Fish and Salamander Keys	Design a Classification Key
7. Analyze the importance of cycles and human interaction in an ecosystem.	Clean up Pattonville Chapter 27 outline Study guide for chapter 30	Biome Brochure

BIOLOGY

1st Semester On-going Activity--Current Event	2nd Semester
Ecology	Genetics
Evolution Adaptation More Than An Eyewitness	Cellular Anatomy
Classification	Biochemistry
	Cells and Cell Processes Osmosis
	Respiration and Photosynthesis

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