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Course Description

This high school biology course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of life science. This course develops an appreciation of the beauty of all God’s creations from their simplest composition at the molecular level to the complexity of our human body.  It discusses Genetics, Cytology, Photosynthesis, Cellular Respiration, Populations, and Ecology.  

The course combines theoretical learning with hands-on laboratory experiments, allowing students to explore biological processes like mitosis, meiosis, and DNA structure. They will also study ecosystems and the impact of human activity on the environment. Through dissections, microscope work, and genetics experiments, students will develop a strong foundation in biology and scientific inquiry. 

Course Details

Biology

Tenth Grade

Course Objectives

  • Understand the basic structure and function of cells.
  • Explore the principles of genetics and heredity.
  • Learn about evolution and the diversity of life.
  • Study ecosystems and the relationships among organisms.
  • Investigate human biology and physiology.
  • Develop scientific inquiry skills through laboratory experiments.
  • Analyze the impact of human activity on the environment and explore solutions.

Course Outline

Unit 1: Introduction to Biology

  • Overview of Life Science
    • Understanding the scope of biology.
    • Exploring the characteristics of life.
  • The Scientific Method and Scientific Inquiry
    • The process of scientific investigation.
    • Designing experiments and collecting data.

Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

  • Cell Theory and Basic Cell Structures
    • Overview of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
    • Exploring organelles and their functions.
  • Cellular Processes
    • Understanding cellular respiration and photosynthesis.
    • Exploring ATP and energy flow in cells.
  • Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis
    • The stages of mitosis and its role in growth.
    • The process of meiosis and its significance in genetics.
  • Laboratory Experiments on Cells
    • Microscopy: observing cells and organelles.
    • Investigating mitosis and meiosis through lab experiments.

Unit 3: Genetics and Heredity

  • Introduction to Genetics
    • Understanding DNA and its structure.
    • Basics of transcription and translation.
  • Mendelian Genetics
    • Gregor Mendel and his experiments.
    • Exploring dominant and recessive traits.
  • Advanced Genetics Concepts
    • Punnett squares and predicting genetic outcomes.
    • Exploring mutations and genetic disorders.
  • Genetics Laboratory Experiments
    • DNA extraction and analysis.
    • Exploring genetic traits through experimentation.

Unit 4: Evolution and Biodiversity

  • Introduction to Evolution
    • Understanding Darwin’s theory of natural selection.
    • Exploring evidence for evolution.
  • The Diversity of Life
    • Classification of living organisms (Kingdoms, Phyla, etc.).
    • Understanding phylogenetic trees and evolutionary relationships.
  • Speciation and Adaptation
    • Exploring the processes of speciation.
    • Understanding adaptation and its role in evolution.

Unit 5: Ecology and Environmental Science

  • Introduction to Ecology
    • Understanding ecosystems and biomes.
    • Exploring food chains and food webs.
  • Population Dynamics and Community Ecology
    • Population growth patterns and carrying capacity.
    • Community interactions: predation, competition, symbiosis.
  • Human Impact on the Environment
    • Environmental issues: pollution, deforestation, climate change.
    • Exploring solutions to environmental problems.

Unit 6: Human Biology and Physiology

  • The Human Body: Systems and Functions
    • Overview of human body systems (nervous, cardiovascular, etc.).
    • Understanding the functions and relationships of body systems.
  • Human Health and Disease
    • Common diseases and disorders affecting humans.
    • Exploring preventive health measures and modern medicine.
  • Human Biology Laboratory Experiments
    • Dissections to explore human anatomy (e.g., fetal pig).
    • Experiments on human physiology and health.

Unit 7: Course Review and Final Project

  • Course Review and Final Examination
    • Comprehensive review of key concepts.
    • Final examination and feedback.
  • Final Project Presentation
    • Presentations on a chosen biology topic.
    • Peer evaluation and course reflections.

Teaching Methods and Assessment

  • The course uses a mix of lectures, laboratory experiments, group projects, class discussions, and dissections.
  • Assessment methods include quizzes, laboratory reports, presentations, projects, and a final examination.

Expected Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will have a solid understanding of fundamental biological concepts and experience with laboratory experiments and scientific inquiry. They will be prepared for further studies in life sciences, medicine, or environmental studies, with a comprehensive understanding of the connections between biology and the broader world.

Coming soon. 

Coming soon.

Casia Holzer

Casia graduated from Utah State University with a degree in biology. While she enjoyed her education, her true passion lies in teaching chemistry. If you stepped into her class on a random day, you would most likely find her doing a science experiment. She believes nothing beats hands-on learning! When not enjoying students in the classroom, Casia tutors, writes biographies, and arranges piano music. Her motto is “Life is beautiful!”