This course will provide an introduction to biology. For most of the year, the focus is on molecular biology -biological molecules, parts of the cell, metabolic pathways, DNA replication, and the cell cycle. The unit on genetics is always a favorite, and the year concludes with units on ecology. If there is a need, additional optional modules will be added to address content requirements in other states. Other topics will include medical applications of biology and methods used to design experiments and collect and analyze data. While evolution will be covered, it is primarily discussed in one unit in the second semester.

In this class, the textbook is a useful resource that has much better drawings than the teacher’s, but it is not the primary source of material. Video lectures explain the ‘how’ and also the ‘why do we care?’. Biological molecules are related to dietary advice – students will know the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats and why one is solid at room temperature. DNA replication, chromatin structure, and transcription are important in understanding cancer biology – what has to go wrong for a tumor to form?

Although there are some traditional elements – homework questions, quizzes, and monthly tests – students are also able to be more creative (or not – it’s up to them) with projects for each unit and article reviews.

Labs
Most modules have at least one hands-on activity. Because the labs are intended to align with the course material, the number and type of activities vary to align with the content. There are three experiments that require lab reports and two others are ‘wet lab’ activities like DNA extraction that do not require lab reports. Other activities include simulating the processes of mitosis and DNA replication with office supplies and classifying local wildlife using a dichotomous key. Only one lab requires ordering specific chemicals. The others can be done using supplies that can be obtained at normal stores. The supplies for the course are listed in a document available at the start of the semester. There are also links to videos of the experiment being done, explanations of the experiment, and pooled class data as appropriate so that students who are unable to do the lab will still have access to the material

Required Materials: Biology by Miller and Levine, Prentice Hall Publishing, 3-Ring binder with paper OR spiral notebook for notes and a folder for handouts/tests, may need graph paper to plot data and blank paper for drawing cells.

To learn more about this class you can read this interview with Dr Underwood.

Instructor: Dr Dana Underwood (dana@fundafunda.com)

For: Grades 9 -12

Hours: 4-5 hours each week

Credit Hours: 1 High School Credit (on completion of both semesters) – students can elect to take the class at an Honors level.

Syllabus: Available here

Fall Dates: August 17 – Dec 11 (with a week’s break over Thanksgiving)

Spring Dates: January 4 – April 30  (any week in March can be taken for Spring break)

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View One Module Here

Example of a student project for the Ecology Module.

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