Overview: 

The first semester of the Biology course provides the student with a basic foundation of knowledge.  The 2^nd semester is more lab and project-oriented allowing students to build on the knowledge attained 1^st semester.  The second semester will also allow them to be more creative and focus in on areas of biology that may be of more interest to them.

Technology will be used in the classroom by the instructor and the students to create presentations, web pages, reports, etc. on related biology topics.

General Outline of Topics/Concepts:

1^st Semester

• Lab Safety, Scientific Method

• Tools of a Biologist, Branches of Biology

• Characteristics of Living Things

• Basic Review of Chemistry

• Organic and Inorganic Compounds; Water

• Energy (Photosynthesis and Respiration)

• Cell Structure and Function

• DNA and RNA, Protein Synthesis, Forensic Science discussions

• Human Genetics and Heredity, Genetic Technology in today's world

• Evolution, Natural Selection, Darwin

• Classification

 2^nd Semester

• Viruses

• Monerans

• Protista

• Fungi

• Plants

• Gymnosperms / Angiosperms

• Monocot / Dicot

• Plant Breeding / Genetics

• Horticulture / Landscape Design

• Animals

• Human Systems (project oriented)

• Careers in Biology (throughout the entire year)