General Biology

Instructor: Mrs. Karcher

Teacher Contact Information: Email: kkarcher@harrisonschools.com Phone: (989) 539-7417 ext. 1425

Duration of the class: General Biology is two trimesters long. Each Trimester is 12 weeks.
Biology A Topics

Science and Engineering Practices

From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes "How do structures of organisms enable
life's functions?" "How do organisms obtain and use energy they need to live and grow?"

Biology B Topics

Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics "How do matter and energy move through
ecosystems?" "How do organisms interact with the living and non-living environment to obtain
matter and energy?"
Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits "How are the characteristics from one generation
related to the previous generation?"
Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity "How can there be so many similarities among
organisms yet so many different plants, animals, and microorganisms?" "How does biodiversity
affect humans?"

Course Objectives:
Students will be able to think critically about scientific issues.

Students will be able to interpret and analyze graphs, charts, and tables.

Students will be able to present information in a clear and organized manner.

Students will develop greater understanding of scientific issues and information.

Students will use empirical evidence to validate or criticize conclusions about explanations and
predictions.

Skills and Practices

1. Asking Questions and Defining Problems
2. Developing and Using Models
3. Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data
5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
6. Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence
8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

Grading A major portion of the class will focus on Learning to Learn instead of
memorization of facts. This process will include guided instruction, group discussion, SAT
practice, and personal reflections which will be assessed for participation.

Book:
Modern Biology 1999. Cost $51 new. Most are very used but you will pay $51 if you lose it or
destroy it. Minor problems caused by you will result in fines between $1 and $15.
Academic Dishonesty
Academic dishonesty rules apply to homework, papers, projects, quizzes and tests.
Classroom Guidelines:
1. Be Prepared
Students will bring the needed materials to class. This includes a PENCIL!!!
Students will arrive to class on time.
Students will turn in assignments when they are due.
2. Be Polite
Students will treat staff, other students, projects and equipment with respect.
Students will follow the school rules as stated in the Handbook.
3. Be Proactive
Seek out help as soon as you recognize the need for it.
Make arrangements to get your work if you know you will be absent.
4. Participate
Students will follow directions, be on task, and will get involved with classroom discussions
and activities.
5.

Positive Attitude

Consequences:
1. Warning
2. Contact parents and detention
3. Contact parents and parent meeting with Mr. Thomas
Classroom Procedures:
Be prepared to learn and in your assigned seat when the bell rings.
Students will complete the Warm-Up on the board at the start of each class and a reflection at the
end of class.
Class will be dismissed by the teacher, not the bell. DO NOT crowd the door.
Late work will be accepted at the discretion of the teacher.
Hallway Passes
Hall passes will be given for emergencies only (1 per week), dont make this a habit.
If you have a medical condition, please let me know so we can make accommodations for you.
Food/Drinks/Electronic Devices
Electronic devices/Cell phones- Follow protocol on the board for the day.
Electrical outlets are not to be used for charging of electronic devices.
o First offense- Item is taken and returned to a parent at the end of the day.
o Second offense- Student does not have phone for the rest of the year.

Water and only water will be allowed in class. NO FOOD.