2010-2011 curriculum night

2010-2011 Curriculum

Night

Ms. Maggie ChambersE-129/E-126

Welcome Parents!

BIOLOGY

A bit about me…• Bellingham, Wa• Education

– Gonzaga University• Bachelor of Science, Biology

– Western Washington University• Master in Teaching

• Teaching– Kolbe Cathedral High School,

Bridgeport, CT– Hutch School, Seattle

Teaching PhilosophyStudents deserve a science education that will help them transition successfully into scientifically literate citizens.

Why is this important?Scientifically literate students have the ability to apply scientific knowledge, to evaluate and make valuable, evidence-based decisions about scientific issues in their daily life and as a member of their society.

http://www.scottsdalecc.edu/green/get_involved.html

Welcome to Biology!Rationale:

This year-long course is designed to introduce students to the living aspects of the natural world and to the process of scientific investigation.

Biology Course Syllabus• Chemistry of Living Things• Cells/ Cell Processes• DNA/RNA• Genetics• Evolution• Bacteria & Viruses• Ecosystems & Ecology• Human Systems

How is Biology taught?• In-class Investigations and

Exploration• Computer Models/Interactive

Websites• Microscopy Work• Data Analysis• Observations and Evidence!• Summaries and Reflections• Group Discussion• Bioethics & Applied Science

Issues

How is Biology assessed?• Tests, weekly quizzes, lab

practicals• Individual and group projects• Lab reports• Video focus questions• Homework checks• Class participation/ discussion• Short class work assignments• Use of rubrics, point values,

etc.• Semester exams

Curriculum• Teaching strategies applied in this

class are designed to provide an enriching curriculum that reaches many levels of learners including higher-level learners, ESL, and those with special needs.

• Artifact for Portfolio will be included in the class

What Does Your Student Need In Class?

• Composition Book- Predictions, observations, analysis,

reflections. Students use EVIDENCE from investigations to supplement their ideas.

• Science Binder (or section)- Notes, handouts.

• Leave books at home!

www.chambersbiology.weebly.com(may also access through RHS

website)– Calendar– Documents from class– Announcements

*No password needed

Website

How to Be Successful in BiologyBiology covers a lot of material- success

is very dependent on:ASKING QUESTIONSObtaining helpNote-taking skills & review of lecture

material (handouts/study guides) DAILYUse of online or text resources to reviewReview of lab materialNot missing class or lab days!!Establishing an effective study group

Class Routines…• Warm-ups/homework stamps• Lectures/Discussions/

Collaborative Work/Labs• Homework (30-45 min/daily on

average)• Projects/Tests/Quizzes

Make-up Work /Late Work/Absentees

• Student responsibility• Late work will not be

accepted• Check the website, agenda,

peers.• If a student is absent, she has

the same number of days that she was absent to turn in missed work--this includes taking tests

• Labs are VERY DIFFICULT to make up…

To help your child succeed…

• Urge students to be self-motivated

• Check the website• Seek help• Monitor grades online-

Webgrader• Check student agendas

(planners) daily/weekly

Contact Information*E-mail: mchambers@lwsd.org

Phone: (425)936-1800Find me on the RHS website!