Honors Biology I Curriculum

Honors Biology I is an in-depth, systematic approach to the study of living organisms. Due to the rapid expansion of knowledge in this field, study will be accelerated so that not only text content will be covered but also current research and development. The major topics covered are: study of living organisms, cells, continuity of life, history and diversity of life, viruses and monera, protista and fungi, plants, invertebrates, human biology, and ecology.

Emphasis is placed on the mastery of the vocabulary of biology. Students will maintain a biology notebook. Students are required to present a representative insect collection, current news articles, and a research paper. Microscope work and lab dissections are an integral component of this course. The laboratory aspect of Honors Biology I will be tested with comprehensive semester lab applications.

Guest lecturers and visiting scientists that complement the curriculum are used to give students a first-hand experience of science in our community. Science Fair Project Required.

One Biology I credit is required for graduation. It can be earned with this course or Biology I or Alternative High School Biology I.

1. Recommend students achieve a 'B' or better in 8th grade science
2. Teacher recommendation for honors program
3. Recommend scores of or above 80% on reading achievement test

• Course Objectives - Summary Document (653 kB Adobe Reader file)
  
  1. The Cell
  • A: Cell Structures
  • B: Cell Differentiation
  2. The Molecular Basis of Heredity
  • A: DNA
  • B: Genes
  3. Biological Diversity
  • A: Homologous and Analogous Structures
  • B: Biological Adaptations
  4. The Interdependence of Organisms
  • A: Matter Cycles
  • B: Parasitism and Symbiosis
  • C: Carrying Capacity & Limiting Factors
  5. Matter, Energy, and Organization in Living Systems
  • A: Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
  • B: Matter and Energy Cycles
  6. The Behavior of Organisms
  • A: Cells to Monitor Environment
  • B: Behavioral Responses
  7. Local Objectives
  • A: The Animal Kingdom
  • B: The Plant Kingdom
  • C: HIV/AIDS
• Core Labs - Summary Doc. (49 kB)  |   Process Skills Checklist (93 kB)
  
  1. The Grasshopper (external)
  2. TerrAqua Column
  3. Chemical Reactions Within Cells (as inquiry)
  4. Organic Compounds Lab: Carbohydrates, Protein, and Lipids
  5. Insect Collection
  6. DNA Model
  7. Osmosis I: Egg Lab
  8. Osmosis II
  9. Dragon Genetics: Introduction and Rules, Meiosis, and Mutation
  10. Human Genetic Disorder Project
  11. Plier Birds I: Variation in physical and behavioral characteristics
      Plier Birds II: Competition
      Plier Birds III: Population Changes over Time
  12. Introduction to Adaptation
  13. Protists
  14. Science Fair Project
  15. Earthworm Adaptations
  16. Frog Dissection
• Textbook
• Obsolete Curriculum Map