Introduction to Biotech

I. COURSE LEVEL
Biotech uses a 4.0 GPA, and does not qualify for extra quality points.

II. COURSE GOAL
Science --> the process of discovery
Biology --> the study of living things
Goals --> to introduce the basic terminology and investigative processes essential to an understanding of                biology

III. COURSE CONTENT
     UNIT                          TITLE                                                                             # OF TOPICS                  NUMBER OF WEEKS

     1.    INTRODUCTION TO BIOTECH & BIOETHICS           2                                     3 - 4
     2.    ENVIRONMENT                                                                3                                     5 - 6
     3.    MICROBIOLOGY                                                              3                                     5 - 6
     4.    FOOD TECHNOLOGY                                                       2                                     3 - 4
     5.    GENETICS                                                                           3                                     5 - 6
     6.    GENETIC ENGINEERING                                                2                                     5 - 6
     7.    ELECTROPHORESIS                                                         2                                     5 - 6

IV. COURSE STRUCTURE

A. In Classroom

1. Notes -> given regularly / emphasize concepts

2. Labs -> given regularly / reinforce concepts and skills / "share" with a partner

3. Major Assignments
          a. Projects (Planning)->LONG TERM / done singly or with partner
          b. Presentations -> infrequent / either oral or written
          c. Research -> occasionally / utilizing labs, books, magazines, internet, etc.

B. Outside Classroom

1. Readings
           a. Articles & Handouts -> regularly / over particular topics
           b. Paperbacks -> only for projects or extra credit

2. Worksheets -> regularly / based on 1/2 hour per night / done alone / meant to be "thought-provoking" /
           might require hints or help

3. Completion of Labs -> finishing questions, graphs, calculations, etc / parts completed in class are done
           with lab partner, but parts completed at home are done alone

4. Projects (Data Collection & Reports) -> might require use of library, lab (after school), outdoors, art
           work, etc.

V. GRADES

A. Homework / Labs / Projects
   - is assigned a letter grade
   - letter grade is then converted into a percentage using the following scale

                                    SCALE :
                                  A+ = 100%
                                  A = 95%
                                  A- = 92%
                                  B+ = 88%
                                  B = 85%
                                  B- = 82%                (NOTE - any assignment not
                                  C+ = 78%                                    at least 1/2 completed is an F)
                                  C = 75%
                                  C- = 72%
                                  D+ = 68%
                                  D = 65%
                                  D- = 62%
                                  F = 0%

   - I often accept a late paper once from each student, and reduce the grade one letter grade per day late / I           do not accept a second late paper from the same student
   - all homework assignments will be totaled and the final average percentage will be placed on the following           grading scale

                                                                             A = 90 - 100%
                                                                             B = 80 - 89%
                                                                             C = 70 - 79%
                                                                             D = 60 - 69%
                                                                             F = 59%   OR BELOW

B. Tests (Quizzes)

   - all tests (and lab practicals) are graded as a percentage
   - to determine letter grades both use the same grading scale as is used for homework & labs

   - Lab Practicals (if used) are announced ahead, and are usually over a specific set of labs.
   - Tests are given at the end of each "chapter" (set of Notes). Questions will come from
           NOTES and worksheets, with some questions from labs, articles, and handouts.

      Final Exam Policy -> Do not have to take final exam if:
             a) no more than 2 absences per semester
           b) no more than 5 tardies per semester
           c) no disciplinary referrals from that class for that semester
           d) passing grades for both quarters

C. Calculating Grade

TESTS (& Quizzes)             = 40%
LABS & HOMEWORK   = 30%
PROJECTS                        = 20%
QUIZZES                           = 10%
 (NOTE- If no project is completed during a quarter, then Labs & Homework =50%)

VI. MISCELLANEOUS

A. Daily Routines

   - attendance / lights / collecting & passing out papers -> use assigned helpers
   - makeup work -> only if absence is excused / place on desk before first bell
   - lab stations & lab drawers -> are assigned / responsible for maintaining inventory and neatness
   - taking notes -> ask questions ANYTIME! / move closer if necessary / copy from anyone after an
         absence

B. Special Routines

   - truancies & tardies -> See Student Handbook
   - lab makeups -> some can be rescheduled / some have alternative work
   - live plants & animals -> birds & newts - YES / fish & plants - NO
   - windows, shades, fans, etc. -> ask teacher before touching
   - Fire & Disaster Drills -> students assigned to lead and check windows
   -"school related absences (Field Trips/Athletic competitions/in an office) -> students are responsible
         to let the teacher know the reason for the absence

     NOTE - The classroom will usually be available after school for work on labs, projects, research, or any                other assignments.

                                 If you have questions or need to talk about something I am usually available before and after school,                                          in Room 158-N, if you let me know.