Biology 2 is an elective science class designed to further students knowledge of Biology.  This course is designed on a semester basis, so students can take either first, second, or both semesters. 

The Objectives of this course can be broken down into two areas – Conceptual:  what subject matter will be learned and Scholarship:  what skills will students’ develop.  Concepts will vary semester to semester but will center upon the basic themes recurrent throughout the study of the natural world namely by focusing on what structures and processes govern the diversity of living organisms and what properties have emerged over time to form what we refer to as ‘life.’  Scholarship objectives range from vocabulary development and critical reading to engaging in scientific inquiry. Journaling, sketching, and actively participating in experiments and demonstrations are the means by which students will use to meet the requirements of this course. 

The Grading scale is as follows:  A – 90 to 100%; B – 80 to 89%; C – 70 to 79%; D – 60 to 69%.  Grading is continuous throughout the semester and grade checks will be given every three weeks – students who return grade checks within one week with the signature of a parent or guardian will receive additional credit.  Grades will not be rounded or curved.

Major requirements of the course include tests, quizzes, text assignments, projects, and your science journal (spiral notebook) which will contain data from our experiments, reflections upon the material, and other required writings.  A comprehensive final examination will be given prior to the conclusion of each semester. 

Required materials include  a folder of some sort and a notebook (this notebook should be BIO 2 Only, as it will be graded over various weekends an is worth up 15% of your grade.), a writing instrument, and the text.  Students who have legitimate reasons for not being able to obtain these materials should talk to me.  It’s also advisable for students to have a set of colored pencils and a scientific calculator.

Achievement will be based upon completion of required work, demonstrated proficiency with the material, and overall participation.  Because Biology 2 is an upper level science course, the vocabulary and concepts are often difficult so students are encouraged to both study and to retake any quizzes or tests (with the exception of the final examination).  Students are also allowed to respond to feedback on any returned assignments to improve their grade.  Because work can be resubmitted and assessments can be retaken, students are expected to adhere to following guidelines and failing to do so will result in my refusal to grade resubmitted work….

a.      All quiz and test retakes must happen within 2 weeks of the date in which the quiz or test was returned.  Students can schedule retakes with me for before or after school or during the lunch hour. 

b.      All resubmitted work must be original and the work of the student. 

. Homework and Lab Report Expectations:

  • Late work is always an issue – yet, the work is important, so students are encouraged to turn in assignments once completed.  Full credit will not be given on late work, in fact the highest grade that one can earn is a C, however, if a student receives a B or better on the following test, late work grades will be changed to the value they would have received had the work been in on time. 
  • All lab reports must be typed.  You will be given two days to finish a lab report once the lab has been completed.  If your printer has failed at home then send the lab report to my email address so it isn’t late thus preventing you from getting a zero grade.  Only typed summaries will be eligible for extra points
  • If you are absent due to extracurricular activities or other circumstances you are expected to consult the class schedule and ask about assignments before you leave.  You are given 2 days for everyday you are gone to complete the assignments before the assignment is considered late.  If you can complete the assignment while you are gone that would be appreciated.
  • There will be no “comparing answers” before you turn in your work.  If you are “comparing answers” both of you will receive a zero grade because I will assume you are cheating.
  • When given class time to work on homework or lab work I highly recommend you find a partner that you can work well with to help each other solve problems.  It is also highly recommended that you form study groups outside of school hours.

 Class Procedures:

  • All purses must be stored under your desk.  The purse will never be on the desk or on  your lap.  (So you are not tempted to look at your phone – if this is a security issue for you, leave your purse in your car or locker.)
  • Animals and plants are to be treated as scientific equipment, so permission to feed, touch, hold, or move them must be given prior to taking such action. 
  • Lab participation is mandatory (with the exception of dissections) and if a student misses a lab it is expected that they will take appropriate steps to make it up.  Because some of the materials used are time-sensitive, students will be expected to do this quickly. 
  • Turn Homework in as you are entering the room the day the assignment is due before roll.
  • You will lose 5 points every time you forget your Biology book or any other materials.
  • You will be in your seat when the bell rings with your class materials ready.
  • You are expected to have your textbook and notebook  with you everyday.
  • You will use all class time to work only on Biology 2 related assignments.
  • No food in the classroom.  Only water is acceptable at your desk.
  • Be respectful to others, yourself and the teacher. 
  • You will not get to leave the room so don’t ask. (Unless it is an emergency.)
  • All students are expected to follow the lab rules for safety while using the lab.

 Discipline: I expect that behavior would not be an issue in an elective class, but the teacher on an escalating basis will deal with inappropriate behavior

  • First Offense : Verbal warning and behavior will be corrected
  • Second Offense: Call home and detention after school.  If detention is not served, the student’s  grade will be reduced by 1%.
  • Third Offense:  Dean will become involved.

Keep in mind that safety is my top priority in this room.  If for any reason I feel that you are endangering yourself or others you will be dealt with in an appropriate manner.  If I cannot trust you, you will not be doing labs.  I will assign other appropriate work.  Please detach and return the slip below

______________________________________________________________________________

 I have read and understand Mr. Bartsch’s class expectations

 

Student’s name:_________________________   Date:_____________________

 

Parent’s name:__________________________   Date:_____________________

 

 

A note about accommodations and extra credit:  Not all students have equal opportunities to learn.  Because learning disorders, physical issues, and often family issues interfere with school achievement, I will do my best to accommodate any and all of the students in the course by providing notes, allowing access to the strategies lab, or allowing partial fulfillment of assignments or significant revision of assignment structures.  Students are responsible for informing me regarding whatever difficulties they are having and discussing possible accommodations.  There will be no extra credit, though I am more than willing to discuss alternative assignments, make-up assignments to cover lab credit and extended due dates provided student and parent communication is evident.