1. 2015-16 Course Syllabus Teacher: Mrs. Wilma A. Chua Room: E208 Telephone: 510.522.0200 extension 2208 Voicemail: 4537 Email: wilmachua@ccs-rams.org Class website: http://ccssciencesalameda.wikispaces.com Course Description Three main topics will be addressed in this class: a. cells and heredity, b. diversity of living things, and c. the human body. The students will be able to explain and discuss the scientific theory of cells and chemical makeup of living things. They will also be able to compare the structure and function of cell parts in plant and animal cells, and describe the different levels of organization in living things. They will also learn the ways organism interact with their environment. Students will be conducting laboratory experiments, where they can sharpen their skills in collecting data, making measurements, exercising careful observation skills, formulating hypothesis, and analyzing data. Students’ success in the class also depends on their ability to read and write in grade level, especially in lab format. Students will be guided with hands-on activities, demonstrations, lectures, open-ended labs and group work. Textbook and Supplies Textbook: Science FUSION: Cells and Heredity / The Diversity of Living Things/ The Human Body Systems Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2012 (Paperback) – This is the first year of adoption. Students will receive these textbooks in class so please expect to be billed later. Students will write on these textbooks, therefore the books will not be eligible for resale. Lab Gear: bring goggles and lab coat from last year; students are responsible to bring disposable nitrile gloves; new pairs of goggles and lab coat may be purchased in class if needed General Supplies: school planner, 3-prong folder, composition notebook, a pack of college ruled binder paper, pencils, eraser, green or blue pen, and tape Computer Technology: On a regular basis, be able to access internet connected computer, and working printer.

2. Grading for Each Quarter Class and Homework - 30% Students are expected to participate in class with their full attention. Students will need to read the textbook and answer reading assignments so they practice the vocabulary and concepts learned in the class. They will write the answer on the textbook and bring the completed textbook to be checked the next day. There will be 7 to 10 reading homework per quarter. The monthly Science News is designed to enhance students’ scientific reading and writing skills. It will also keep them updated on the current events in the science department. Students are required to read one article in the magazine or in the internet (https://www.sciencenews.org)each month and write a summary based on the reading.https://www.sciencenews.org Labs and Projects – 30% Laboratory reports include Cover Page, Introduction, Materials and Methods, Results, Discussion, Conclusion, Figures and Tables. There will be around two to three lab reports each quarter, either partial report with selected sections or complete report with all sections. Students will be working on individual science fair project in first semester and additional projects in second semester. See science fair packet for checkpoint dates and requirements. Tests - 40% Tests are given in format of multiple-choice questions and short answers. To prepare for the test, students need to focus on vocabulary, understanding and application of science concepts. There will be 3 to 4 tests per quarter. Routines & Procedures Class Rules Respect others. Respect the people, equipment, and furnishings of the classroom. One-Voice Rule. Do not speak during instruction time, or when others are speaking. Use a private voice when working in small groups or in pairs. Uphold all school rules. No hats and cell phones. Entering the Classroom Enter in a quiet manner, there will be seating assignment. Textbook, lab and general class supplies need to be readily accessible when the bell rings. Obtain all required materials before bell rings. Sit down quickly and start working – homework and lesson objectives will be on the board. Wait for further instructions.

3. Missing and Late Work Policy Students are expected to turn in all assignments; whether they are complete or incomplete. “No work, no points.” Excused late work (due to illness or absenteeism) is allowed two days to be completed, weekends not included. No points will be deducted. Unexcused late work, complete or shows effort – 10% off each day with minimum score of 50%. No late work will be accepted after one week. Lab Work Come with all lab gear. Be ready to work. Follow all safety guidelines. Clean up after yourself, and help others as well. Emergency STOP Stop, turn, and look FREEZE Don’t move a muscle GO Line up outside the classroom. Cells and Heredity Unit 1 - Cells The Characteristics of Cells Chemistry of Life Cell Structure and Function Levels of Cellular Organization Homeostasis and Cell Processes Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Unit 2 - Reproduction and Heredity Mitosis Meiosis Sexual and Asexual Reproduction Heredity Punnett Squares and Pedigrees DNA Structure and Function Lesson Overview The Diversity of Living Things Unit 1 – Life Over Time Introduction to Living Things Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection Evidence of Evolution The History of Life on Earth Classification of Living Things Unit 2 – Earth’s Organisms Archaea, Bacteria, and Viruses Protists and Fungi Introduction to Plants Plant Processes Introduction to Animals Animal Behavior The Human Body Systems Unit 1 – Human Body Systems Introduction to Body Systems The Skeletal and Muscular Systems The Circulatory and Respiratory Systems The Digestive and Excretory Systems The Nervous and Endocrine Systems Reproductive Systems Unit 2 – Human Health Immune System Infectious Disease Nutrition and Fitness