Honors Biology Syllabus & Study Guide (2025-2026)

Course Overview

Introduction to Honors Biology

This course is designed for students who meet the Honors Requirement and serves as a preparatory class for college-level biology. It covers a wide range of biological topics, integrating laboratory investigations and the use of technology. The curriculum introduces students to the diversity of biological systems, evolution, genetics, ecology, and cell biology.

• Purpose: Prepares students for advanced study in biology and fulfills UC/CSU lab science requirements.

• Approach: Emphasizes inquiry, critical thinking, and hands-on laboratory work.

• Textbook: Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections (10th edition).

Main Units of Study

Unit 1: The Chemistry and Energy of Life

This unit explores the chemical foundations of life, including the structure and function of biological molecules and the principles of energy transformation in living systems.

• Key Concepts: Atoms, molecules, chemical bonds, water properties, macromolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids).

• Energy: Cellular respiration, photosynthesis, ATP production.

• Example: How enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions.

Unit 2: The Cell: Homeostasis & Development

This unit focuses on the structure and function of cells, mechanisms of homeostasis, and cellular development.

• Key Concepts: Cell theory, organelles, membrane transport, cell cycle, differentiation.

• Homeostasis: Regulation of internal environment (e.g., osmoregulation, pH balance).

• Example: Comparison of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Unit 3: The Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

This unit examines the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein, known as the central dogma.

• Key Concepts: DNA structure, replication, transcription, translation, gene regulation.

• Formula: $\text{DNA} \rightarrow \text{RNA} \rightarrow \text{Protein}$

• Example: How mutations in DNA can affect protein function.

Unit 4: Concepts of Evolution

This unit covers the principles of evolution, including natural selection, adaptation, and speciation.

• Key Concepts: Darwinian theory, genetic variation, mechanisms of evolution, evidence for evolution.

• Example: Evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

Unit 5: Ecology

This unit introduces ecological principles, including interactions among organisms and their environments.

• Key Concepts: Ecosystems, energy flow, nutrient cycles, population dynamics, community interactions.

• Example: Food webs and trophic levels in a forest ecosystem.

Course Policies & Expectations

Homework

Homework is assigned regularly and must be submitted electronically or in person before class. Late work receives partial credit. Students are expected to read assigned textbook chapters and complete online assignments.

• Submission: Via Schoology or as specified by the teacher.

• Due Time: By 8:00am on the due date.

• Late Policy: 50% credit for late assignments.

Lab Reports

Laboratory investigations are a core part of the course. Lab reports must be complete, neat, and submitted on time. Labs may be performed in class, at home, or virtually.

• Requirements: Accuracy, neatness, and timely submission.

• Format: Typed or hand-written, including data tables, observations, and analysis.

Quizzes & Exams

Quizzes are given regularly to assess understanding. Exams cover major units and require mastery of concepts and vocabulary.

• Preparation: Review notes, textbook chapters, and lab results.

• Deficiency Tests: Students scoring below 70% may retake tests to improve their grade.

Grading Policy

Grades are based on homework, lab reports, quizzes, exams, and participation.

Category	Weight
Tests & Quizzes	40%
Lab Reports	25%
All other coursework	35%

• Letter Grades:

  • A = 90-100%

  • B = 80-89.9%

  • C = 70-79.9%

  • D = 60-69.9%

  • F = below 60%

Supplies Needed

• Notebook or binder with paper

• Pencils and colored pencils

• Highlighter

• Device/cell phone for pictures

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to uphold honesty and integrity in all coursework. Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

Tips for Success

• Prepare for class.

• Listen to directions and follow them carefully.

• Complete assignments on time.

• Ask for help when needed.

• Review all material regularly.

• Think critically about concepts.

Mission Statement & Science Department Statement

The course is rooted in the values of the Catholic tradition and aims to foster academic excellence, personal responsibility, and scientific inquiry. The science department is committed to providing a rigorous curriculum that encourages exploration, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

*Additional info: Some details about the units and grading were expanded for clarity and completeness based on standard General Biology syllabi.*