Living Environment (Regents Biology) Mrs. Guzzino & Mrs. Saramak

Course Description: As a living thing, we share a common bond with millions of other known organisms. What makes us and other life forms alike or different? What life activities do we carry out? You are about to begin a course in Regent Living Environment (Biology) that will answer these questions. This course stresses the basic life functions that occur in all living organisms with emphasis on the following topics: cells, biochemistry, genetics, evolution, biotechnology, ecology and human function. As a living thing, we share a common bond with millions of other known organisms. What makes us and other life forms alike or different? What life activities do we carry out? You are about to begin a course in Regent Living Environment (Biology) that will answer these questions. This course stresses the basic life functions that occur in all living organisms with emphasis on the following topics: cells, biochemistry, genetics, evolution, biotechnology, ecology and human function.

Course Requirements: 3- ring notebook with paper 3- ring notebook with paper pen/pencil /highlighter pen any color 1 specific colored lab folder with pockets and center binder Frontier Agenda Assigned textbooks are to be kept at home Assigned textbooks are to be kept at home

Laboratory According to the NYS Department of Education, in order for a student to receive NYS Regents Credit, they must complete a minimum of 1200 minutes of laboratory instruction and demonstrate competency by passing the NYS Regents Exam at the end of the year. Along with this, students are expected to complete 4 mandatory state labs (160 minutes each).

Laboratory Contined Each lab must be checked by the instructor for accuracy. A lab quiz or test may be given. Each lab must be checked by the instructor for accuracy. A lab quiz or test may be given. If the labs are not approved or not enough time is accumulated by the end of the year, the student will not be able to take the final exam and will not get credit for the course. If the labs are not approved or not enough time is accumulated by the end of the year, the student will not be able to take the final exam and will not get credit for the course. A separate lab folder will be kept in the room at all times; under NO circumstances can folders leave the room. A separate lab folder will be kept in the room at all times; under NO circumstances can folders leave the room. All labs are kept on file for six months after the school year for NYS inspection. All labs are kept on file for six months after the school year for NYS inspection.

Homework Homework Homework assignments are due at the beginning of class. If complete and accurate the student will earn 1 point, if not, a 0 will be given. Homework assignments are due at the beginning of class. If complete and accurate the student will earn 1 point, if not, a 0 will be given. The average will be totaled every 5 weeks. In the case of an absence, the assignment is due without penalty the day the student returns. The average will be totaled every 5 weeks. In the case of an absence, the assignment is due without penalty the day the student returns. Homework and test/quiz dates are posted on the web. Homework and test/quiz dates are posted on the web.

This is where to find me on the web!!

Assessment & Grading - Tests: Given 3-6 times per marking period and accounts for 50% of student average. -Quizzes which are given often will account for 35%. - Projects, homework, participation will determine 15% of student average. - There will be a single, numerical grade recorded to reflect student progress. - A midterm will be given in January.

Student Assistance and Classroom Behavior If a student is having difficulty with the lessons/lab, they should seek help immediately. Don’t procrastinate! If your labs are incomplete, you will need to stay after school to make them up. Biology Rules !! The following page is a set of classroom rules and expectations that our class will follow throughout the year. Your job is to learn them as soon as possible because this is what your first quiz is on! I not only expect you to repeat them but follow them as well. If we all abide by these rules, we can have a successful and enjoyable year.

Come prepared to learn everyday Come prepared to learn everyday Listen well the first time Cooperate with Classmates and teachers Respect Classmates, Teachers and Room Know what is expected of you …never hesitate to ask questions.