This course is designed to be an introduction to biology. This includes discussions of cellular structure and composition as well as the functions of individual structures in the cell as they relate to the organism as a whole. This course will also include information on genetics as it relates to heredity as well as discussions on how DNA contains all of the information for creating a living organism. We will also be discussing Biology on a larger scale with topics such as ecology and evolution. There will also be a variety of laboratory exercises and projects which are designed to emphasize the information given in this course. Most importantly, this course is designed to stimulate interest in science and demonstrate the creativity and mastery of God as seen in His creation.

Required: -Biology: The Dynamics of Life -Composition Notebook

Learning Goals: At the completion of this course, students will… 1. Understand the basic structure of a cell. 2. Understand the roles of different cellular structures. 3. Understand our role in the world around us. 4. Develop critical thinking skills that can be use in all aspects of life. 5. Develop the skills needed to assess science in everyday life in an educated manner. 6. Develop an appreciation for the complexity of life.

Topics To Be Covered:

Semester 1:

I. DNA Structure and Function (Chapter 11) A. DNA Structure B. DNA Replication C. From DNA to Protein D. Mutations

II. Mitosis, Meiosis, and Genetics (Chapter 8.2, 8.3, 10) A. The Cell Cycle B. Interphase C. Mitosis D. Meiosis E. Mendel and Genetics F. Applied Genetics III. Cellular Structure (Chapter 7.1, 7.3) A. What is a Cell? B. Cell Theory C. Microscopes D. Organelles

IV. Plasma Membrane and Cellular Transport (Chapter 7.2, 8.1) A. Plasma Membrane Structure B. Plasma Membrane Function C. Passive Transport D. Active Transport

V. Molecular Genetics (Chapter 10.1, 11) A. Genes and Chromosomes B. DNA: Structure & Components C. From DNA to Protein D. Mendel and Genetics

VI. Viruses and Bacteria (Chapter 18) A. Virus Structure B. Bacteria Structure C. How Viruses and Bacteria Cause Sickness

VII. Immune System (Chapter 39) A. Nature of Disease B. Defense Against Disease

Semester 2:

I. Ecology (Chapter 2) A. Organisms and Their Environment B. Organisms Interactions C. Energy Flow

II. Communities and Biomes (Chapter 3) A. Factors That Affect Survival B. Community Colonization C. Biomes

III. Evolution (Chapter 15) A. Charles Darwin: A History B. Natural Selection C. Adaptations D. Comparative Morphology E. Mechanisms of Evolution

IV. Plants (Chapter 23, 9.1, 9.2) A. Plant Structure B. Chemical Energy C. Photosynthesis

V. Animals (Chapter 25, 9.3) A. Animal Development B. Body Plans and Symmetry C. Cellular Respiration

VI. Nervous System (Chapter 36) A. Nerve Cell Structure and Function B. Central and Peripheral Nervous System

Expectations:

1. Be in your seat when the bell rings, or you will be marked tardy 2. During class discussions, only one student may speak at a time 3. No eating, drinking, or gum chewing in class (water bottles are okay) 4. Leaving the class for the restroom, locker, or drinking fountain will result in a tardy 5. Come