Course Syllabus

AP Biology

Ms. Morse

Email: katelyn.morgan@ucps.k12.nc.us

Tutoring Times: Before School and by appointment

Welcome to AP Biology! I am honored to have the opportunity to introduce you to another branch of the biological sciences. Parents, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns throughout the year.

Course Description:

The College Board provides the following course description for AP Biology:

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes — energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions.

AP exam: Students are expected to take the AP exam in May 2021. Students that receive a score of 3, 4, or 5 are considered passing, though many schools only award college lab credit for a score of 4 or 5.  The test consists of 2 90-minute sections. Section 1 has 60 multiple choice questions. Section 2 has 2 long FRQs and 4 short ones.

Materials:

1. It is highly suggested you purchase a review book. It can be an older version, just make sure it is updated to the current test (as of 2013). If you have any questions about which one to get, please let me know.
2.  Grid-paper composition notebook

Attendance

The student is responsible for collecting all make-up for excused absences and making arrangements to come in to make up assignments.  I WILL NOT CHASE YOU DOWN OR REMIND YOU. Students are responsible for completing all assignments within the required time frame.

Lab make up is not always possible. If a student has an excused absence that causes them to miss a lab and a make up is not possible, they will be provided with an alternative assignment. Unexcused absences on lab days will result in a 0.

Incomplete Graded Work Policy

As this is an AP college course, I will not accept late work. Work is considered late if it is not turned in at the BEGINNING OF CLASS on the day it is due. If you are absent and it is an electronic assignment, it is still due by the beginning of class as you can submit it from home. If it is a paper assignment, it is due when you walk in the door the day you return from an excused absence. If there is an issue with an assignment and you do not believe it can be completed on time, you must speak with me ahead of time to see if an extension is possible. If a student is eligible to make-up an assignment, a “1” will be placed in the gradebook.

Grading

This is a college level course, which means the majority of your grade will reflect your understanding of the material and ability to use that information. Extra Credit is only offered to the full class. Do not ask for extra credit on assignment.

Grading Breakdown 

Assessments- 50% (Tests, Quizzes)

Tests are cumulative so be prepared.  They are also timed. Due to the time restrictions on the AP test, all of your tests will reflect the same restrictions.

Classwork- 50%

Unit Outlines

Students, you will be provided an outline for the upcoming unit before it begins in addition to all the homework assignments that will be due. This will include information about all reading assignments, due dates, and test dates.  I do this to allow for you to complete your work during the time you have available. If you know you have a conflict, you can complete the work for that day in advance. I may move a test or assignment due date to provide more time, but I will not move it earlier.  However, I will not remind you about due dates or readings due each day. It is your responsibility to review this outline each night and make sure you have nothing due.