Biology 2A and 2B Course Guidelines

Teacher: Mr. Fleshman, ext 215 Email: fleshman@whiteford.k12.mi.us

Course Description:
Biology 2 is designed to continue the work done in Biology 1. Biology 2 will better prepare a student for
further study of the life sciences at the college level. In this course, the student will expand on topics
previously covered, as well as be introduced to new material. A greater emphasis will be placed on skills
needed to be college and career ready, such as argumentation, presentation, and laboratory skills. Topics
covered will include the nature of science, biochemistry, cellular processes, viruses and bacteria,
taxonomy, plant biology, invertebrate anatomy, and vertebrate anatomy.

Rules:

1. All school rules as indicated in the student handbook will be enforced.
2. Come to class on time and be prepared.
3. Be respectful: of each other, the school, the material, the teacher, and the ideas.
4. Be safe: physically and emotionally. Foul language and put downs are not tolerated.
5. Food, drink, and gum need to be finished prior to coming into class. Water is an exception.
6. Follow all laboratory safety rules as described in the student handbook.

Procedures:

1. Be in your assigned area when the bell rings and begin working on your journal.
2. Cell phones and other electronic devices should be turned off and kept out of sight and out of
mind during class time.
3. Homework should be turned in to the appropriate location at the beginning of class.
4. Every effort should be made to use the restroom before class. If you must leave class for any
reason, you MUST fill out and take the hall pass.
5. Students are allowed three disruptions (restroom, tardy, locker, etc.) in a quarter before a
detention will be assigned.
6. Class will not be dismissed until all students are in a seat, regardless of the bell.

Required materials

A binder or folder with clasps solely for BIOLOGY.
One notebook solely for BIOLOGY.
Pencil or pen (with blue or black ink ONLY). Anything else WILL NOT be graded.
A positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

Assignments
All assignments must include your name and hour.
If I cant read it- I cant grade it. Please be neat!
Late work will be marked down by 10% for each day that it is late up to 5 days, with exceptions
made only for EXCUSED absences. After 5 days, work will be accepted for a MAXIMUM of
50%.
Cheating (plagiarism) will not be tolerated. Plagiarism is a serious offence, with serious
consequences and all instances will be automatically reported to the main office, a parent/student
conference, and a ZERO for the assignment. While much of biology is collaborative, I expect you
to do your own work.

Attendance

1. As biology is built around previous experience and knowledge, attendance at every class is very
important. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to catch up on what was missed.
Laboratories and tests may need to be made up before or after school.
2. If an extended absence is expected, please let me know in advance so that we may plan
accordingly.
3. A period of time equal to the amount of time for an excused absence will be given to makeup
work.
4. Make up work due to an UNEXCUSED absence will only be permitted after conferencing with
me.

Grading
Marking period grades will be determined by the following percentages
10% Participation
25% Assignments
25% Labs/Activities
50% Tests and Quizzes
Extra credits, when given, will be something that will need to be completed outside of the
classroom. Extra credit will only be academically based. Do not expect to receive an extra credit
assignment, they are something EXTRA!
Semester grades will be calculated by weighting marking period grades and a comprehensive
semester exam.

Science Fair
Participation in the Science Fair is mandatory for this course. This event encourages independent learning
and investigation. Projects will need to be turned in on March 6
th
2015! The science fair will be held the
morning of the 7
th
. Other science fairs, while not mandatory, are highly encouraged. Keep in mind, many
good projects take time and you may start/conference with me whenever you would like.

Extra Help
Generally, I will be available and happy to help with any questions before or after school. As
circumstances often change, please try to let me know if you will be stopping by. I am also always
available via email. Please be sure that you and at least parent/guardian have an updated phone and
email address in your Home Access Center.

These guidelines are subject to modification and revision as deemed fit by the teacher.

Please sign below and have a parent/guardian sign.



Student Signature _____________________________________ Date _________________




Parent/Guardian Signature_______________________________ Date _________________