Ms. Maggie Chambers E-129/E-126 Welcome Parents! 2010-2011 Curriculum Night BIOLOGY Introduction Ms. Maggie Chambers E-129/E-126

A bit about me… Bellingham, Wa Education Teaching Gonzaga University Bachelor of Science, Biology Western Washington University Master in Teaching Teaching Kolbe Cathedral High School, Bridgeport, CT Hutch School, Seattle

Teaching Philosophy Students deserve a science education that will help them transition successfully into scientifically literate citizens. Why is this important? Scientifically literate students have the ability to apply scientific knowledge, to evaluate and make valuable, evidence-based decisions about scientific issues in their daily life and as a member of their society. http://www.scottsdalecc.edu/green/get_involved.html

Welcome to Biology! Rationale: This year-long course is designed to introduce students to the living aspects of the natural world and to the process of scientific investigation.

Biology Course Syllabus Chemistry of Living Things Cells/ Cell Processes DNA/RNA Genetics Evolution Bacteria & Viruses Ecosystems & Ecology Human Systems Discuss standards

How is Biology taught? In-class Investigations and Exploration Computer Models/Interactive Websites Microscopy Work Data Analysis Observations and Evidence! Summaries and Reflections Group Discussion Bioethics & Applied Science Issues

How is Biology assessed? Tests, weekly quizzes, lab practicals Individual and group projects Lab reports Video focus questions Homework checks Class participation/ discussion Short class work assignments Use of rubrics, point values, etc. Semester exams

Curriculum Teaching strategies applied in this class are designed to provide an enriching curriculum that reaches many levels of learners including higher-level learners, ESL, and those with special needs. Artifact for Portfolio will be included in the class

What Does Your Student Need In Class? Composition Book- Predictions, observations, analysis, reflections. Students use EVIDENCE from investigations to supplement their ideas. Science Binder (or section)- Notes, handouts. Leave books at home!

Website www.chambersbiology.weebly.com (may also access through RHS website) Calendar Documents from class Announcements *No password needed

How to Be Successful in Biology Biology covers a lot of material- success is very dependent on: ASKING QUESTIONS Obtaining help Note-taking skills & review of lecture material (handouts/study guides) DAILY Use of online or text resources to review Review of lab material Not missing class or lab days!! Establishing an effective study group

Class Routines… Warm-ups/homework stamps Lectures/Discussions/Collaborative Work/Labs Homework (30-45 min/daily on average) Projects/Tests/Quizzes

Make-up Work /Late Work/Absentees Student responsibility Late work will not be accepted Check the website, agenda, peers. If a student is absent, she has the same number of days that she was absent to turn in missed work--this includes taking tests Labs are VERY DIFFICULT to make up…

To help your child succeed… Urge students to be self-motivated Check the website Seek help Monitor grades online-Webgrader Check student agendas (planners) daily/weekly

Contact Information *E-mail: mchambers@lwsd.org Phone: (425)936-1800 Find me on the RHS website!