This is the second semester of a 2 semester course. Check the link at the bottom to enroll in both semesters at a reduced rate.
Comprehensive Biology Lab Class
Humans are naturally interested in learning about biology because biology explains about us. The science of Biology is the study of life and any science issues that have to do with life are biology. This laboratory-based college preparatory course provides understanding of the basic biological concepts: the diversity of organisms; the cell; heredity; matter, energy, and organization of living systems; evolution of living systems; physiology; the biosphere and interdependence of abiotic and biotic factors. Focus is on active student participation in laboratory investigations and the development of critical- thinking skills.
This comprehensive course will engage learners as they develop a deeper understanding of biology. Students will be challenged to apply their knowledge and skills to a variety of hands-on activities and exercises in class and outside of class.
Included with this course:
- live online classes
- office hours
- videotaped information about labs
- feedback
- High school students as well as middle school students taking this for concurrent high school enrollment - will make have everything they need for colleges who want validation regarding this class.
This course is open to middle school and high school students. When used for High School Biology this meets the Grades 9-12 life science graduation requirement. Middle school students who are not taking this for high school credit will have a lighter load of materials to turn in as a part of their evaluations.
Assignments: There will be assignments and activities for each week. These will include selected readings and fun videos or websites. Hands-on activities and labs are always an important part of science. Students will conduct simple laboratory experiments using items commonly available in the kitchen. There is an optional dissection. A project report on the student’s choice of topics pertaining to biology is the assigned at the end of each semester. I will use a scaffolded approach for evaluating lab reports, with the goal of student’s attaining proficiency writing them.
Student Support: I have office hours for this class. Instead of setting a time, students should email me if they need help. The instructor is available by email and [email protected]
Feedback: Feedback will be provided on all assignments.
Materials/Supplies: The textbook will be R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey Biology 2 by Blair Lee published by Pandia press.
Students will conduct experiments using commonly available materials. You probably have most of these items already.
Who this course is for:
This course is open to middle school and high school students. When used for High School Biology this meets the Grades 9-12 life science graduation requirement. Middle school students who are not taking this for high school credit will have a lighter load of materials to turn in as a part of their evaluations.
This is a lab and lecture/discussion class.
The lab portion of the class will include pre-recorded instructions. The primary spine for this course is R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey Biology 2.
There is optional microscopy as a component of this course.
Dates: September 2-December 23
Live Meetings: Thursdays at 12 PST
