AP Biology

AP BIOLOGY 2005-2006

Dear AP Biology Students,

Welcome to AP Biology! AP Biology is a full year, college-level biology class. During this year we will combine what you have learned in Biology. We will all work together toward our major goals of this class, which are: to broaden and explore our interests in Biology, relate advanced topics in Biology to our own lives, learn new laboratory techniques and processes and of course, prepare for the AP Exam. You (and I) will work hard and we will accomplish much. It is expected that you will read and study 15-25 pages of college text for each class period. A quarterly work calendar will be provided within the first two weeks of class. You are expected (and rewarded) to take notes as you read at home and as you listen during class. This is a vital aspect of learning as it makes you more active in your learning and increases your long-term memory. We will be conducting 12 AP labs and about an equal number of supplemental laboratories. These are done to give you hands on experiences, develop skills, and provide reinforcement of concepts learned in the reading and during class discussions. Some of this will result in plotting data and answering questions in a lab manual. Because of the nature of a few of our labs, you may need to be in the lab when class is not in session. I try to keep this at a minimum. I am available for extra help or personal concerns, usually always after school and sometimes during lunch.
Students doing work other than biology during class, coming to class unprepared without a reasonable excuse or repeated low scores on exams and/or labs will be asked to transfer out. Our classrooms are “filled to the brim” and we must all do our part to keep this class the success it is. We will do our own work during exams, quizzes, etc., but we are encouraged to share ideas, teach each other, and question each other in a noncompetitive way. Cheating is NOT tolerated and will result in referrals to the administration. I pride myself on honesty and fairness and the same is expected of you. Keep in mind as you start the course this year, everyone is highly encouraged/expected to take the AP exam in May.
A few other points
1. Tests missed must be made up the day you return to class, bonus is not offered on any make up tests.
2. Other make-up work of any nature is due within two weeks of your absence or it will become a zero.
3. Late work will be penalized and if more than one week late it becomes a zero. Students suffering from prolonged illness or extenuating circumstances must have their parents or themselves contact me.
4. Safety first. Unsafe practice by a student will result in that student being transferred out of class. Ask questions if you don’t know so you can learn proper procedures.
We will be using Biology, 5th ed. Campbell, et al. and the College Board AP Lab manual. And yes, we will read the entire book. Your hard work will pay off!