Syllabus

=Mrs. Tidrick Room C 206=
 * Biology I **

Welcome to Biology I!! This is a college preparatory class and will help prepare you for higher level science classes and critical thinking. The purpose of this class is to introduce you to the different areas of life (biological) science. The main topics we will be discussing this semester include the structure and characteristics of life (cells structure, function, and processes), heredity (genes, DNA), evolution (gene frequency, natural selection, Darwin), and ecology (natural resources, biological cycles, and ecosystems). In order to accomplish this, we need to work together and respect each other. This brings me to the rules and guidelines everyone needs to follow.


 * // Positive //**// (appropriate comments, reasonable behavior) //
 * ** Show respect ** for yourself and others. For example, do not talk when others are talking, do not use derogatory language, and do not bother another person’s belongings.
 * ** Be patient. ** Things do not always go as smoothly as we would like, but they will go more smoothly if you remain calm and think through the problem.

v ** You will be participating in the use of new technology this year. You are responsible for following all rules with the equipment and internet **. (*See school policy)
 * // Responsible //**// (accountable for your actions, think before you act) //
 * ** Turn your work in on time ** . Your grade will be lowered for each day it is late. Papers must be turned in before the graded papers have been returned to the class. **I will not accept late papers from a chapter that we have completed (no credit will be given).** Exception: See attendance policy below.
 * ** Follow the laboratory safety rules. ** (See laboratory contract signed by you and your parent/guardian.) You will receive one warning and if you continue to disregard the rules you will be removed from the group and receive a **zero** for the activity.
 * ** No smelly items. ** Make up, perfume, hairspray, or any other item such as these **may not** be used in the classroom.
 * ** Cell phones, MP3 players, etc. will not be tolerated. ** See school policy.
 * ** Do not touch ** equipment, computer(s), other apparatus, or specimens unless instructed to do so (including doors and windows).


 * // Involved //**// (participate, take care of school property) //
 * ** Clean up your mess ** ; lab material should be returned, trash thrown away. Points will be deducted from the lab/activity.
 * ** Do not write on desks ** . You will clean it up.
 * ** Be equally involved ** with your lab group and class discussions; communication is an essential part of your learning.


 * // Dependable //**// (present, prompt, prepared; do your OWN work, report problems) //
 * ** Be prepared ** . Bring your notebook, pencils, textbook, and agenda book with you to class
 * everyday **.
 * ** Do not cheat ** . You are responsible for doing your own work. This includes tests, quizzes, projects, homework, etc. If you are found cheating (ex: copying someone else’s answers on a test or homework assignment) you and the person who assisted you in obtaining the answers will receive a **zero** on the assignment and your parents will be called. Be aware: if you are caught cheating a second time in the 9 weeks you will receive a zero as an overall grade. (For further information see your student handbook.)
 * ** Be on time ** . Tardiness will not be tolerated. Everyone is to be in the room and in their respective seats with appropriate materials by the tardy bell. (*See attendance policy)


 * // Efficient //**// (use your time wisely, solve problems with out arguing or fighting) //
 * ** Passes: ** You will use your agenda book for personal passes.
 * ** Finish work ** for this class first before working on other material, when given time in class.
 * ** Work politely ** with all members of the class.

Your grade will be determined through in-class and out of class assignments, laboratories, quizzes, tests, and projects. Daily assignments will be counted one of two ways, either for participation points or graded for correct answer. These are usually worth between 5 and 20 points. Laboratories and other group activities will be collected on a weekly base, ranging from 15-100 points. Quizzes will typically be worth 50 points or less. Tests and other projects that will be used to assess your understanding are typically worth 100 points.
 * Grade: **

It is very important to attend class every day! I understand that sometimes you must miss school for excused absences, such as illness. IT IS THE **//RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT//** TO OBTAIN AND MAKE UP ALL ASSIGNMENTS, INCLUDING QUIZZES AND TESTS, HE/SHE HAS MISSED DURING AN ABSENCE WITH IN THE ALLOWED TIME FRAME. (See me before school – not during class). For example, if you miss 3 days of school, you have 3 days to make up your work, unless you make special arrangements with me. Otherwise, a zero will be given for those assignments. If the absence in unexcused the school’s attendance policy will be followed. If you miss the day of a test or quiz it is to be made up the day you return if no new material is missed. **See Attendance policy.**
 * Attendance: (Dependable) **

The Grading scale can be found in the student handbook, along with any other school policies, rules, and consequences.

Lab fees - $12.00 Please pay Mrs. Herman in the office, I cannot accept the money.

 * Other supplies:** notebook, 3-ring binder, pen/pencil

//Please keep your book covered all year.//

If you have any questions or need help, please ask. I will normally be here before school, or make arrangements to meet with me at some other time. **Remember**, be respectful and you will receive respect in return. I am looking forward to an enjoyable year!!!

Mrs. Tidrick