Los Altos High School

Environmental Science

Biology

Biology Honors

Text:

• Pearson Environmental Science, and Google Classroom

Text:

• Standard first year high school Biology text

Text:

• College entry-level Biology textbook.
• Novel “The Hot Zone”

Content:

Survey course covering foundational concepts in Environmental Science 

• Ecology
• Geology
• Human Population Dynamic
• Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy
• Hydrology
• Waste Management

Content:

• Nature of science
• Ecology
• Evolution
• Classification and characteristics of living things
• Biochemistry
• Cell structure and function
• Plant and animal systems
• Mendelian and molecular genetics

Content:

• Same topics as in Biology, but with a greater level of detail/depth and more biochemical emphasis
• Bioethics will be embedded

Workload:

• 15-25 minutes of studying, review and homework assignments 1-2 nights per week.
• Most work done in groups with heavy teacher guidance through all assignments

Workload:

• 20-30 minutes of studying which will include reviewing, reading and/or written assignments 2-3 nights per week
• Some independent work expected, but often reviewed in class

Workload:

• 30-40 minutes of reading and/or written assignments 3-4 nights a week.
• More independent work expected.

In-class instruction:

• Lectures, laboratory experience activities, demonstrations, and projects.
• Pacing is dependent student success and work completion

In-class instruction:

• Lectures, laboratory experience, activities, demonstrations, computer work, modeling, and projects.
• Lectures will cover material at a slightly slower pace than honors

In-class instruction:

• Laboratory experience, discussions, projects, computer work, simulations. modeling, and presentations.
• Lectures will cover more difficult topics at a faster pace.

Skills developed:

• Students will use their basic Algebra skills to solve simple equations
• NGSS Science and Engineering practices.
• Creation of graphs and graphical analysis of data both by hand and with a computer
• Logical reasoning skills related to collected or provided data
• Group collaboration and intrapersonal skills
• Academic organization/studying
• Preparation for successful transition to Biology

Skills developed: 

• • NGSS Science and Engineering practices.
  • Use of research and scientific method to determine answers.
  • Creation of graphs and graphical analysis of data both by hand and with a computer
  • Logical reasoning skills that connect experimental results to Biology principles.
  • Communication of ideas and  reasoning to others in written and spoken form.
  • Biotechnology skills and techniques

Skills in addition to those in Biology: 

• Sophisticated use of the Google Suite.
• Library and Internet research skills.
• Design and implementation of experiments

Background necessary for success

• Study and organizational skills
• Problem solving skills
• Critical thinking

Background necessary for success

• Study and organizational skills
• Problem solving skills
• Critical thinking

Background necessary for success:

• Comfort applying Algebra skills.
• Strong reading, writing, and analytical skills.