Course Description
Biology 1B is the second course of a two-semester series. The course explores the nature and organization of living things. Students will describe the history of biology and evaluate the impact of scientific research on society in order to understand biological processes. Among these processes, students will analyze the mechanisms and applications of genetics, the mechanisms of evolution and the evidence supporting the theory, how relatedness of organisms is used in the scientific naming and classification system, and how groups of organisms interact with each other and with the abiotic factors in an environmental system.
Course Objectives
Upon completing this course you will be able to:
- describe the history of biology and evaluate the impact of scientific research on society.
- describe the mechanisms, principles, and modern-age technology of genetics.
- analyze the evidence, principles, and mechanisms of evolutionary theory as a scientific explanation for the unity and diversity of life.
- apply the system of taxonomy based on shared characteristics of organisms to classify organisms and to compare the major taxonomic groups.
- describe the interdependence and interactions that occur within an environmental system in order to maintain balance.
Required Course Materials
- Interactive Notebook – In the form of a small composition notebook, a spiral notebook, or loose-leaf paper kept in a binder.
- Pencil or Pen – In order to do well in the course, you must take notes, sketch diagrams and graphs, and solve problems when instructed to do so.
- Internet Access
- Adobe Reader
Note: This course does not require a textbook.
Course Organization
Each semester contains 7 units and one final exam that must be taken in person.
Each Unit contains:
- 4 to 5 lessons. Each lesson includes some or all of the following components: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate.
- Self-assessments to help you check your own understanding of the material covered in each lesson. You must complete these assessments in order to advance in the course.
- 2 graded assignments
Final Examination
The final examination is comprehensive; it covers the material from all XX units. To pass the course, you must receive a grade of 70 percent or better. You can apply to take the Final Exam after 100 percent of your graded assignments have been submitted, and at least 70 percent have been graded and returned to you.
Format: Multiple-choice, online
Time Allowed: 3 hours
Materials Allowed: #2 pencils
Semester Topics
Topic 7: Genetics
Topic 8: Biotechnology
Topic 9: Evidence Supporting Evolution
Topic 10: Mechanisms of Evolution
Topic 11: Classification
Topic 12: Introduction to Ecosystems
Topic 13: Ecosystem Dynamics