Biology Course Overview and Description

Course Overview

This year we will explore many interesting and timely topics in the study of Biology.  The course curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards.  These standards explore concepts and include content in Ecology, Photosynthesis, Cellular Respiration, Cell Biology, Cell Division, Molecular Genetics, Non-Molecular Genetics and Evolution.  This course challenges the critical thinking skills of the students enrolled in it. Additionally, the course sets out to improve their reasoning and analytical skills.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The course in Biology is designed to give the student an understanding of how living things function.  The course is intended to stir curiosity and ask questions. Intrigue and Inquiry are encouraged. During our coursework students will utilize the textbook, printed materials and the internet. Students will also observe and investigate aspects of living things in the laboratory, report the results of their work through written laboratory reports, develop and present projects, and complete quizzes and tests.  The use of math skills and an understanding of graphing are integral parts of these efforts.  This course satisfies the S.A.U.S.D. core science requirement for life science as well as both University of California and California State University requirements for admission as a laboratory science.

While it is our goal for all students to become scientifically literate in Biology and to appreciate and become lifelong learners in science, students will also be required to work on and improve their reading and writing skills, which is a school-wide focus and is crucial for the success of all students.  In addition, a strong emphasis will be placed on Godinez’s Expected School-Wide Learning Results. This course is aligned with the Common Core State standards adopted by SAUSD.  Futhermore, the course is also aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.