Biology 1A and 1B Course Guidelines

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

Course Description:
Biology 1 is designed to introduce the student to the field of Biology. Topics covered will
include the nature of science, the biosphere, ecology, cell structure and function, cellular
energetics, cell division, introductory genetics, evolution, and the human body. While exploring
these topics, students will develop critical thinking, analytical, and laboratory skills.

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 sign out and sign in upon your arrival.
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.

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 _________________