We'll study ecology, genetics, bacteria, and fungi...not just plants and animals!

Biology is a laboratory centered class that is required for high school graduation. The Biology Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills are taught in this course and will be tested in grades 10 and 11 on the Science TAKS test.

First semester topics include the following:
The scientific method and lab safety
The chemistry of life
Ecology
Cell structure and function
Cell energy (photosynthesis and respiration)
DNA and protein synthesis
Genetics

Second semester topics include the following:
Natural selection and evolution
Classification
Bacteria and viruses
Protists
Fungi
Plants
Invertebrate animals
Vertebrate animals

3-ring binder, 1" or larger, for BIOLOGY ONLY!
1 package of dividers
notebook paper (wide ruled)
two #2 pencils OR a mechanical pencil with extra lead
large eraser
red grading pen
hi-lighter (any color)
map colors
scissors
Pre-AP only: composition book (9 3/4 x 7 1/2 inch, 100 page, BOUND, lined notebook. NOT A SPIRAL NOTEBOOK.

All students will bring 2 packages of 4x6 lined notecards.
Also, choose ONE of the following to bring to class:
2 vis-a-vis markers
1 pair adult size scissors
2 rolls of clear tape
1 large package or regular M&M candies

Need help with homework? Lost a worksheet? Want to review for a test? Need to complete make-up work?

Tutorials are in room 604 from 7:40 till 8:00. No pass or appointment is needed. Just show up!

After school tutorials are available by appointment or you may ask for a pass to come in during advisory.

Want to know when the next test is scheduled? Forget what the homework assignment was? Need to know what you missed when you were absent? Click on "Class Calendar" or "Lesson Plans" at the top of the page to find out. (You should also have a six-weeks calendar from Mrs. Crawford in your notebook!)

Note: Plans may vary because of unforseen circumstances, so check with Mrs. Crawford for assignment confirmation.

Outstanding Pre-AP Biology students will be invited to the Biology competition at Stephen F. Austin State University. Cash prizes will be awarded! Check back for more information.

www.phschool.com/atschool/biology/index.html (textbook website)

www.millerandlevine.com/ (textbook website)

www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/parents.html (TEA website, student assessment page, link to released exit level science TAKS tests)

genome.wellcome.ac.uk/node30079.html Single gene disorders

genome.wellcome.ac.uk/node30078.html Chromosome disorders

genome.wellcome.ac.uk/node30110.html Gene Therapy

history.nih.gov/exhibits/genetics/ Human genetics and medical research

learn.genetics.utah.edu/units/disorders/index.cfm Understanding genetic disorders

www.michaelbach.de/ot/ Fun optical illusion website

Euglenoid Project Web
Euglena and its relatives are the subject of this site. A primer introduces peculiarities of euglena behavior and anatomy. Visitors can also check out the original euglena sketches by German biologist Christian Ehrenberg (who named the creatures in 1830) or watch movies of cells on the move or eating other protists. With interactive keys and synopses of most genera, the site contains information for taxonomists.
www.plantbiology.msu.edu/triemer/Euglena/Index.htm

New test for MSRA (methacillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus) - article and video clips www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080214144409.htm