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

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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.

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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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!

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

11. 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

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

13. 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…

14. 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

15. Contact Information *
Phone: (425)
Find me on the RHS website!