Course title

Biology

Pre-requisite

Algebra 1

Course description

Course DescriptionSemester A

Biology A introduces students to the scientific method and the major concepts of biology from an historical and practical viewpoint. The three major themes of this course are the cell; the molecular basis of heredity; and the interdependence of organisms. Students who take this class will have a deeper appreciation for the complexities of living organisms. Life on this planet; unlike anywhere else in the observable universe; is complex and highly organized. Whether examining life on the molecular or the planetary level; it exhibits a highly organized structure that inspires awe by its genius and complexity. In the last 50 years; discoveries have launched new branches of biology that have transformed the daily routine; from conception to death. New challenges await; such as the current crisis in ecology; global warming; and the resurgence in viral disease. To make rational choices in the 21st century; the citizen must have a basic understanding of biological concepts and the reasoning behind them. Biology A is presented in a multimedia format using interactive modules; labs; narrated animation; text; and videos to present the study of life on this planet. Students work through and complete several self-check activities and quizzes for practice; and participate in self-reflection. In each unit; students complete the unit exam and deliver a unit project. Teacher feedback is provided throughout the course.

Semester B

Biology B is a continuation of the basic course in biology; Biology A. The major concepts covered are population dynamics and evolution. Students explore population dynamics through the study of mutualism; predation; parasitism; and competition. The theory of evolution is presented; along with the many evidences and details that make evolution the backbone of modern biology. From biochemistry to evolution; biology fascinates people. Biochemists first astounded the world by showing that life obeys the same chemical principles as all creation; but that life engineers chemistry to its own needs. Decades later; Darwin shocked the world by suggesting that life evolves according to the conditions of the environment it inhabits. Evolution; often debated and derided; has survived to become a key concept of biology. This second course in biology examines the wonder of life and its mechanisms. Students work through and complete several self-check activities and quizzes for practice; and participate in self-reflection. In each unit; students complete the unit exam and deliver a unit project. Teacher feedback is provided throughout the course.

Semester AMajor Concepts
  • Cellular Processes
  • Molecular Basis of Heredity
  • Interdependence of Organisms
  • Contagious Diseases-Causes and Cures
  • Human Populations and Their Impact on the Environment
Semester BMajor Concepts
  • Biochemistry of Nutrition
  • Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
  • Genetic Adaptability
  • Taxonomy and Speciation
  • Nutrient Cycles and Adaptations to the Environment
  • Energy Flow and Ecosystems

School country

United States

School state

Colorado

School city

Colorado Springs

High school

Village High School

School / district Address

1355 Kelly Johnson Blvd

School zip code

80920-3907

Requested competency code

Lab Science

Date submitted

Deferred

Yes

Deferred date

Deferred Reason

In order to be reviewed as a laboratory science; we will need a list of physical laboratory experiments completed for this course and number of hours students spend doing laboratory assignments each week.

Online / Virtual

No