Course title

AP Bio Hon

Pre-requisite

Grade of A in Biology and Chemistry; or B or better in Pre AP Honors Biology and Pre AP Honors Chemistry; Qualify on Placement Rubric

Course description

This course is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year.
AP Biology includes topics regularly covered in a college biology course for majors. The college course in biology differs significantly from the usual first high school course in biology with respect to the kind of textbook used; the range and depth of topics covered; the type of laboratory work done by students; and the time and effort required of students. The course aims to provide students with the conceptual framework; factual knowledge; and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. Major themes covered in the course include: Science as a Process; Evolution; Energy Transfer; Continuity and Change; Relationship of Structure to Function; Regulation; Interdependence in Nature; and Science; Technology; and Society. This course aligns with the National Collegiate Honors Council’s expectations for university Honors course pedagogy. The course format will follow these objectives in the delivery of the content: 1. Discussion and writing are the hallmarks of Honors classes. Students will consistently use writing; both in class and out; as a means to express ideas and prepare for discussions. 2. The course is discussion-oriented rather than lecture. The instructor provides background to inform the discussion and guide the research; as students are given time in advance to read; research and prepare their responses in writing. 3. Students work to develop the ability to think about a broad range of ideas and come to understand how scholars and artists work by reading and responding to primary source material; by exploring issues and problems in depth rather than quickly and superficially; and by being carefully exposed to and guided through the methods of many disciplines. Students learn to see the broad implications of each issue; as well as learning to analyze and synthesize the material. 4. Students work to become more independent as critical thinkers; demonstrating the ability to use knowledge and logic when discussing an issue or an idea; while considering the consequences of their ideas; for themselves; for others; and for society. The classroom environment is open to many perspectives and points of view; where students are encouraged to take intellectual risks and feel safe doing so.

School Country

United States

School state

Arizona

School city

Phoenix

High school

Horizon Honors High

School Address

16233 S 48th Street

School zip code

85048

Requested competency code

Lab Science

Date submitted

02/13/2013

Approved

Yes

Approved competency code

• LBIO
• Biology

Approved date

04/29/2013

Online / Virtual

No