SCIENCE
Biology 2003-2004!
Ms. Haugen
Florin High School
7956 Cottonwood Lane
Sacramento California 95828
School Office: (916) 689-8600 Message Center: (916) 689-8038
e-mail: hhaugen@edcenter.egusd.k12.ca.us
Florin High Home Page: www.egusd.k12.ca.us/florinhigh/

This Syllabus Belongs To:

I have read and understand this course syllabus.

STUDENT SIGNATURE:

PARENT/GUARDIAN NAME:

PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE:


Phone number: (    )    -     (    )    -     Best time to call (circle one): am  pm

Dear Students and Parents/Guardians,
I’m looking forward to a great year at Florin High School. Florin’s motto is: “Making Success an Every Day Experience”. Along with our motto we have the following Mission Statement: Our purpose is to enable students to develop a positive vision for themselves, and become responsible independent, self-directed learners resulting in informed and ethical decision making both now and in their future lives. We offer many academic opportunities which emphasize high expectations, self-esteem, and cultural diversity.
To promote student success Florin High has the 5 As plan*-emphasizing Academics, Attendance, Attitude, Activities, and Athletics. Expected School-wide Learning Results (learner outcomes) have also been designed to ensure that all students are: Effective Communicators, Complex Thinkers, Quality Producers, Collaborative Workers, Self-directed Learners, and Community Contributors. In addition to Florin’s plan for student success the course will focus on National Science Standards (www.nap.edu/readingroom/books/nses/html), and the California State Science Standards (www.cde.ca.gov) as well as Elk Grove Unified School District Goals/Standards (www.egusd.k12.ca.us/StandBenchmark/science.htm)*.
Biology is a year-long, ten credit course. The content of this course will give students a better appreciation and understanding of scientific methodology as well as the knowledge they will need in a world that is increasingly influenced by the ideas and discoveries of scientists. Students will perform a number of laboratory experiments both in and out of the classroom. Students will interpret scientific data/results and apply (make connections) the curriculum to “real life” situations. Students will also investigate a number of occupations which utilize science and technology.
*Documentation is available

Biology will consist of the following topics of study:
SEMESTER 1
1-Principles of Biology
•scientific method, how to publish a laboratory report, safety, and laboratory apparatus.
2-The Study of Life • living/non-living characteristics.
3-Ecology and Environmental Issues
•biomes, ecosystems, photosynthesis/respiration, energy flow & current environmental issues.
4-The Chemistry of Life
*biochemistry and macromolecules.
5-Cell Structure
*using a microscope to investigate cell parts and their functions.
6-Cell Process
*osmosis/diffusion & mitosis-cell division.
SEMESTER 2
7-Molecular Genetics
*DNA, RNA, and Protein synthesis.
8-The Continuity of Life-Mendelian Genetics
•meiosis, genetics, heredity, Biotechnology and the future.
9-Human Biology -Physiology
•cells-tissues-organs-systems.
•human anatomy in relation to bacteria and viruses.
•history of medicine-past-present-future.
10-Evolution
•natural selection and history of life on earth.
11-Diversity of Life
•classification, bacteria, viruses, protist, fungi, plants, and the animal kingdom.

**Reading of Current Events and investigation of Careers in science will be examined throughout the course**

TEXTBOOK

The textbook is “Biology: The Dynamics of Life”. Supplementary material includes: films, videos, laboratory activities, literature, magazines, newspapers, the Internet and other educational resources.

LAB PARTNER CONTACTS

Write down at least two of your classmates’ phone numbers. They will be excellent contacts if you are absent and for Study Buddies!!
PARTNER #1 Name Phone number (   )    -     e-mail
PARTNER #2 Name Phone number (   )    -     e-mail
PARTNER #3 Name Phone number (   )    -     e-mail

On your mark. Get set. Get ready to... learn and discover in fun and exciting ways!!!

BIOLOGY COURSE STANDARDS

The Science Content Standards for California Public Schools, Kindergarten Through Grade Twelve represents the content of science education and includes the essential skills and knowledge students will need to be scientifically literate citizens in the twenty-first century. Complete standards can be viewed at the California Department of Education web site (www.cde.ca.gov) as well as the Elk Grove Unified School District’s Standards and Benchmarks web site (www.egusd.k12.ca.us/StandBenchmark). In addition, students will receive a standards booklet which correlates the state science standards with each chapter in the textbook.
Cell Biology
1. The fundamental life processes of plants and animals depend on a variety of chemical reactions that occur in specialized areas of the organism's cells.
Genetics
2. Mutation and sexual reproduction lead to genetic variation in a population.
3. A multicellular organism develops from a single zygote, and its phenotype depends on its genotype, which is established at fertilization.
4. Genes are a set of instructions encoded in the DNA sequence of each organism that specify the sequence of amino acids in proteins characteristic of that organism.
5. The genetic composition of cells can be altered by incorporation of exogenous DNA into the cells.
Ecology
6. Stability in an ecosystem is a balance between competing effects.
Evolution
7. The frequency of an allele in a gene pool of a population depends on many factors and may be stable or unstable over time.
8. Evolution is the result of genetic changes that occur in constantly changing environments.
Physiology
9. As a result of the coordinated structures and functions of organ systems, the internal environment of the human body remains relatively stable (homeostatic) despite changes in the outside environment.
10. Organisms have a variety of mechanisms to combat disease.
INVESTIGATION & EXPERIMENTATION
1. Scientific progress is made by asking meaningful questions and conducting careful investigations.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

My role will be that of a facilitator. In order to “make success and everyday experience” students are expected to:
1. Attend class each day on time, have a positive attitude, and be ready to LEARN!
2. Complete assignments and turn them in at the required time.
3. Arrange for missed assignments after being absent by calling a friend, Ms. Haugen, or the Counseling Center (which can arrange for homework for all your classes). {(916) 689-7431}
4. Participate in class and group discussions and laboratory activities (In groups of 2 or 4).
5. Use intelligent behavior. The 4 Rs: Respect, Responsibility, Risk, and Reason =REWARDS!
*Be present, prompt, prepared, productive, positive...and PARTICIPATE!*

THE 1 RULE CLASSROOM

“You may do anything in the classroom as long as it doesn’t interfere with anyone’s learning-including you own!”

CLASS REQUIREMENTS

The following is a list of general class procedures concerning homework, absences, special assignments, extra credit assignments, etc...
1. Expect homework to be assigned on a regular basis. Time may be available in class to work on assignments.

Late work will not be accepted.
In case of emergencies or personal reasons, late work may be accepted on an individual basis.

2. Students are required to makeup assignments covered during an excused absence. Some laboratory activities may be offered for make-up on Wednesday Open Labs. Be sure to make an appointment for make-up laboratories immediately upon your return to class. The school policy states that missed work is to be turned in within three days after your return. Assignments due the day of an absence (and you were aware of the assignment due date) must be submitted the day you return. Longer absences will be handled on an individual basis. You may contact your lab partner, Ms. Haugen, or the Counseling Center [ (916) 689-7431] for your assignments.
3. Labs are an integral part of biology and important for student understanding of course standards and curriculum.
4. Portfolios are an essential component of assessing student academic achievement. Students must provide evidence of learning and meeting the standards. All course/lab work should be saved and organized into a binder. Students will compile a portfolio and complete self-reflection exercises which demonstrate attainment of the science standards.
5. Note taking is an important skill. Each student will be required to take notes during class, during films and videos, and when reading the textbook. Notes, activities, laboratory reports, etc. will be completed and submitted in Unit Packets.
6. It is recommended that each student maintains a neatly organized binder (2”+) for the class materials for the year as well as a 1/2” binder for the submission of Unit Packets. (organized binders may be used on unit and semester exams! AND you may earn enrichment points for exemplary binders!).
7. One or more special assignments (projects) will be given each semester. These assignments will require outside resources to complete. A school-wide Internet Agreement form has been sent home by the school. Please sign, date, and return this form immediately. A separate Biology permission/release form will be sent home for use of the classroom computers, including the use of the Internet as a learning and resource tool.
8. No form for outside activities (i.e., field trips, etc...) will be signed for students not maintaining a satisfactory course grade (C- or better).

MAKE-UP POLICY

On the day you return from an absence you should:
1. Copy Agenda from classmate for the days you missed.
2. See the Knowledge Expert for assistance making up assignments and/or labs.
3. At the end of the period make an appointment with the teacher to schedule any make-up work, labs, etc.
4. If you are aware of a planned absence (field trip, assembly performance, vacation, etc.) please see me to obtain prior approval on making up any assignments.

EVALUATION PROCEDURES FOR SCIENCE

Your science grade is on a point system and will be based on:
1. The completion of all class assignments, laboratory activities, homework, semester projects, portfolio entries, and any special assignments.
2. Participation in class/group discussions and activities.
3. Performance on quizzes, exams, and the semester final.
4. Enrichment projects (see Enrichment Project Section and Handout for details).

GRADING CONTRACT

Every student is expected to work toward a satisfactory grade based upon his/her own level of achievement. The grade is based upon the completion and performance on laboratories, assignments, homework, tests, portfolios, projects, and participation.

‘A’ = 90-100% Student has done work that is excellent in nearly all respects.
‘B’ = 80-89% Student has done solid work and has achieved at a level above average.
‘C’ = 70-79% Student has done average (satisfactory) work. The student’s overall performance has been below mastery of the subject.
‘D’ = 60-69% Student has failed to perform at an acceptable level.
‘F’ = BELOW 60% Student has failed to perform at an acceptable level.
In addition to academic performance + and - grades will be awarded based upon class participation and citizenship.

SEMESTER GRADE

Each semester grade is the sum of the five percentages (A 90-100%, B 80-89%, C 70-79%, D 60-69% F BELOW 60%). Grades to date will be available for all students on a biweekly basis. Web Grades can be accessed from the Biology web site with your student ID# and your specially assigned PIN (personal Identification Number). Grades will be posted in the classroom and on the Internet on a regular basis. Progress reports will be sent home for all students receiving a grade below a C (73%). Interim progress reports require a parent signature and must be returned to the teacher promptly. Scheduled school progress reports are mailed home each quarter. The exact dates were included in the Florin High School Newsletter as well as the Welcome Back to School Folders you received. [www.egusd.k12.ca.us/florinhigh]

The 1st and 2nd semester grades are based on five separate grades as follows:

1st (or 3rd) quarter grade (assignments/quizzes/labs/unit packets/etc.)-30%
2nd (or 4th) quarter grade (assignments/quizzes/labs/unit packets/etc.)-30%
Enrichment-10%
Portfolios-20%
Semester Final Exam-10%

ENRICHMENT AND ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

The Philosophy of the Biology Team at Florin High School is that an ‘A’ student is one who exceptionally demonstrates thorough application and extension of knowledge learned in the classroom. We believe that ‘A’ students are those who make connections to real life. Therefore, in order to earn an ‘A’ in biology, participation in scientific research opportunities and enrichment activities is required. In addition, we believe that ALL students are capable of achieving success in biology. 10% of the science semester grade is based on enrichment/extension activities. A student may earn up to 90% (A-) without outside enrichment/extension activities. Students who desire the “A/A+” letter grade will need to plan their enrichment activities wisely. Students choosing to do additional activities above the required 10% will received extra credit or additional enrichment for their efforts.

Enrichment/Extension Activities-Get Started Early!
*Ask your teacher how you can get involved!! *

Each student needs a total of 10 enrichment points. Enrichment tickets are handed out after they are earned. Tickets are the responsibility of the students and MUST be completely filled out to be accepted. Students can earn more than 10 Enrichment Points. Most Enrichment/Extension activities require a letter of submittal and documentation (photos, diagrams, displays, learning centers, etc...)

Enrichment/Extension activities include, but are not limited to the following:
F= Fall Semester S= Spring Semester
S-- Science Olympiad (4)
S-- Egg Drop (2) or (3, if you come in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd)
F-- Metric Estimation (1) or (2, if you come in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd)
F-- Academic Decathlon (2)
F, S-- Approved Novels (2-3 for each novel)
S-- District Writing Contest (2) or (3, if you come in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd)
S-- Science Fair (4) or (5, if you come in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd)
S-- Classroom Assignments and/or Exemplary Portfolio (up to 2)... an additional 1 EP awarded if your work or photo is used on the classroom/program web page!
F,S-- Project Pipeline (2)
F,S-- Science Tutoring (1-5) Can be completed at the Florin High Tutoring Center, Wednesday Open Lab, Twilight Tutoring Program, etc... The Enrichment units earned depends upon the time and effort that you put in!
F, S-- Future Teacher Club-with emphasis on science (2-3)
F,S-- Blood drive/Health Faire (1)
F,S-- Functional Folder (2 each)
F,S-- Designing Children’s science learning aides, activities and books (3-4)
F,S-- Designing science T-shirts (3-4)
F,S-- Partnership Leader and Contact (3-4)
F,S-- Independent Projects/Laboratory Extension •must include a project proposal plan• (1-5)
F,S-- Wildlife Manager (3-5) 2 additional point for the design of an information document(s) on the animal(s)
F,S-- Classroom Newspaper Editor (4-5)
F,S-- Classroom Newspaper Reporter (3-4)
F,S-- Bulletin Board Manager (4-5)
F,S-- Classroom Web Page Designer (5+)
F,S-Parent Visitation and Learning Log (2)

Many more Enrichment opportunities are announced in class and will be offered as they come up (competitions-Duracell Battery, Exploravision, etc.). Be sure to read the Science Announcements on the Daily Schedule and listen for these opportunities. Also consider working a the SPCA, your local veterinarian, or creating your own project!

TUTORING & A PLACE TO STUDY EXTRA ASSISTANCE AND MAKEUP ASSIGNMENTS

Florin High School has an excellent tutoring center. Use of the school and county library are encouraged. Student mentors/tutors are available for assistance. Special help, makeup assignments, and labs will be handled on an individual basis. I am available at lunch, before, and after school on a regular basis. Late bus passes are available. Students may sign up for Open Lab, held daily before school--sign up on Open Lab Request Form).

Everyday before school, there is a scheduled activity/tutoring time from 5:30am-7:30am. Students are encouraged to use the student support services and activities provided to them. In science, students will have the opportunity to obtain assistance/guidance on course material as well as participate in Open Labs (before school and during 4h period in room N-8). Students have the option to complete makeup work, study for science and other classes, perform extension activities under the guidance of Ms. Haugen, and develop many more opportunities for learning . Enrichment laboratories can be performed during Open Lab time or by appointment.

Panther Science News
Florin High School: A Tradition of Excellence

Welcome to Ms. Haugen’s Super Science class. We will be working together to make this year fun, educational, and successful. This newspaper outlines a number of programs and policies in Ms. Haugen’s science course. Students will be publishing a classroom newspaper as part of our commitment towards student success through community and parent involvement.

CLASSROOM JOB OPPORTUNITIES-Earn Participation or Enrichment Points!

Concierge* (Welcomer). This person welcomes new students and guest(s) to the classroom. In addition, when visitors come to our class the Concierge welcomes them and has them sign our guest book.
Environmental Supervisor*: Assists with classroom managing, making sure classmates are on task, and following the 4 R’s (Respect/Responsibility/Risk/Reason). This person ensures the class receives perfect “Sub Points” when Ms. Haugen is absent.
Class Inspector*: Assists with monitoring classroom environment, making sure that all materials are put away and room is organized at the end of each class period. They will conduct a daily inspection of desks and lab stations.
Laboratory Assistant: Assists with obtaining a new stamp and stamping weekly schedules, passing out and collecting materials/assignments, and setting up laboratory activities.
Receptionist. Answers the classroom phone and takes messages when necessary and passes out science badges during laboratory or substitute days. Change the desk calendar each day.
Wildlife Manager*^e: Assists with classroom animals, making sure that all wildlife is properly cared for. Adopts an animal habitat and cares for that habitat, making sure that each habitat is provided with necessary food, water, and care.
Librarian: Is accountable for the checking in and out of classroom library books. In addition, the librarian will inventory all books.
Bulletin Board Manager *^e. In charge of designing and obtaining information for the “Science News” bulletin board.
Portfolio Manager*: Assists with monitoring portfolio distribution and collection during the classroom period.
Editor*^e. Is responsible for the publication and distribution of the classroom informational bulletin (newspaper).
Reporter*^e. Assists the editor in providing newsworthy information for publication in the classroom bulletin (newspaper).
Attendance Clerk*. Assists the teacher with taking roll in the classroom and changes the daily calendar.
Computer Expert/Technology Technician. Assists the teacher in monitoring classroom equipment and acts as an expert. This student will also be the designer for our classroom web page.
*for each class period ^e these jobs earn Enrichment Points-IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ANY OF THE JOBS- SEE MS. HAUGEN FOR AN APPLICATION. JOBS ALSO COUNT TOWARD SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS! LOOK AT THE JOB BOARD FOR JOBS NOT LISTED IN THE SYLLABUS!

CLASSROOM DONATIONS ACCEPTED

Keep your eyes and ears open!! Our classroom is always in need of science related literature, aquariums, animals, animal cages, rubber stamps, magazines, books, science materials (films, videos, posters, taxidermy animals, wildlife cards), and a whole bunch of other stuff. We are always looking for computer supplies such as disks, scientific software and 35mm film, VHS tapes (new, used, demo tapes). We could also use office supplies such as paper (color, white, construction), pencils, CD-Rs to burn our projects on, computer equipment, etc. If you have any donations please see or call Ms. Haugen-(916) 689-8038 or electronically contact me at hhaugen@edcenter.egusd.k12.ca.us.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Your child’s education is IMPORTANT!! Get involved!! Come learn with us! Feel free to stop in and visit anytime (7956 Cottonwood Lane ROOM N-8). Ms. Haugen is always looking for parent helpers as well as guest speakers! If you are interested in helping out in the classroom, visiting, &/or being a guest speaker please call me at (916) 689-8038.

School Sponsored Parent Visitation Days: 10/30 12/11 1/29 4/26

Here are a few ways to help your child succeed:
*Establish clear rules. *Stress the importance of education.
*Provide reading material-->Encourage reading. *Play games.
*Spend time together. *Participate in school/student activities and committees. *Monitor television. *Encourage hobbies.
*Recognize achievements . *Encourage extra-curricular activities.
*Monitor homework, attendance, and grades. *Discuss a variety of topics with your child-Open *Hold high expectations. Communication.
*Learn Together!

RECOGNITION

IDENTIFICATION BADGES

As in a research lab, each student scientist will be provided with an identification badge worn during classroom laboratory experiments, cooperative activities, and while a Guest Teacher is present. Students will be asked to bring in a photo about 2cm X 2cm (old ID photos are perfect sizes) to be placed on the badge. All badges will be laminated and stored in the classroom.

TARDY POLICY

A t Florin High School, parents, teachers, and administrators are committed to establishing patterns of promptness to help students “learn to be responsible, productive citizens”. Timeliness is a personal characteristic that will help to insure success in a student’s future academic and work environments. Students’ full participation in the instructional program include being in their assigned seat when the bell rings, ready to learn, and working on the daily schedule (Cerebral Challenge).

Florin High School has adopted a no exceptions, zero tolerance, policy toward student tardies. In accordance with a zero tolerance tardy policy, any student late to class* without an official hall pass will be considered tardy. In Ms. Haugen’s Science class the following tardy policy will be implemented:
1st Tardy: warning from Ms. Haugen and surrender “Tardy Ticket” (Students receive one Tardy Ticket at the beginning of each quarter. Tardy Ticket is worth at least 10 points at the end of each quarter).
2nd Tardy: Invitation to a 15 minute Tardy Party** in room N-8 during Wednesday Open Lab or by appointment (before/after school or at lunch)--parent phone call &/or note home.
3rd Tardy: Invitation to a 30 minute Tardy Party in room N-8 during Wednesday Open Lab or by appointment (before/after school or at lunch)--parent phone call &/or note home.

After the 3rd tardy, School-wide Tardy Policy is followed starting with OCS for the 4th tardy. It is my goal to assist students in being in class, on time, and successful in science!

Parents will be notified of tardies and can assist the students by stressing the importance of prompt attendance as a basic student responsibility. The O.C.S. teachers will maintain an accurate and cumulative record of tardies, and refer students to an administrator after five tardies in any quarter.
*After 10 minutes a readmit is required

**During Tardy Parties students will complete science assignments and work on a “game plan” on how to be to class on time. Students tardy to a Tardy Party will be assessed an additional tardy. It is the students’ responsibility to be to class on time!

POTTY PASS

At the beginning of each Quarter students will receive a “potty pass” coupon worth at least 10 points. You must forfeit the 10 points and the coupon if you request a pass.

HOMEWORK COUPON

At the beginning of each Quarter students will receive one “homework” coupon worth at least 10 points. If you have all assignments submitted on time during the quarter, you can submit the coupon and receive 10 points. If, however, you have a late assignment you must staple the coupon on to the front of the assignment and a “late point charge” will be avoided. Once you have a late assignment OR you have stapled this coupon to the front/top of an assignment you must forfeit the 10 points. In addition, this coupon can not be used on some assignments. Therefore, if an assignment may be late it is wise to speak to the teacher about it prior to the due date. In order for the Homework pass to be valid, you must write the reason why the assignment is being submitted late on the back of the coupon. NOTE: homework coupons can not be used on an assignment in which the due date has been extended.

LAB WRITE-UPS

All of your laboratory write-ups should be word-processed. Computers are available in the classroom and Alpha Smarts are available for check out.
Grading the Lab-see “How to write a Lab Report” guide sheet and rubric:
In grading each lab, the following will be considered:
•Following of Laboratory Write-Up Guidelines •Organization •Neatness (includes spelling)
•Data accurately listed and neatly recorded •Questions correctly answered in COMPLETE SENTENCES •Conclusion/comments •Diagrams, graphs, charts -labeled and titled

COMPUTER/INTERNET ACCESS

Students will be utilizing classroom and school computers to complete reports, participate in online science projects, create Power Point Learning Stacks and for Searching the Internet. All students must sign and follow the Acceptable Use Policy-Internet Agreement of Florin High School. In addition, students have been given a classroom Internet policy and use form. This form must be signed in order for student work or photos to be placed on the Classroom and Program web pages. Only first names will be used (see the permission form for details).

STAMPING

Some of your assignments will be stamped for completion. Incomplete or incorrect work will be indicated by a “complete and return” &/or “correct and return” stamp.

TEACHER SCHEDULE

Period 1-Biology (Coop) Period 4-Lunch Period 7-Biology
Period 2-Biology (ELL) Period 5-Biology
Period 3-Biology Period 6-Preparation Period

TEACHER CONTACT

Expect at least two phone calls each semester from me regarding the progress of your son or daughter. Please, feel free to call me any time. I invite you to come to Back to School Night (9/11) and Open House in April. This year we will again have a “Science Night” during Open House where parents/guardians set up time to attend a conference with me about the progress of each student and participate in science discovery activities.
I look forward to hearing from you and/or meeting you. Together, can make success an everyday experience for all students! :o) Ms. Haugen