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Course Information for 
Regents Biology 
(The Living Environment)

This course is designed to meet the requirements of Regents curriculum for The Living Environment.  Major topics  covered include the following:      

• Similarities and Differences Among Living Things
• Homeostasis in Organisms
• Genetic Continuity
• Reproduction and Development
• Evolution
• Ecology
• Human Impact on the Ecosystem
• Scientific Inquiry and Skills
• Laboratory Skills

A great deal of emphasis will be placed on helping students to apply the knowledge acquired in class.  Students will be encouraged to formulate and test reasonable hypotheses by designing and conducting their own experiments.  The goal is for students to be able to “explain, analyze, and interpret biological processes and phenomena.”  

Homework – Students receive a weekly homework sheet describing the assignments for the week.  Homework is generally assigned every night and accounts for 15% of the overall quarterly grade.  Homework includes preparing for quizzes and tests

Quizzes and Tests – Quizzes and/or tests are given weekly and  account for 55% of the overall quarterly grade.  I am always available for review the day before quizzes and tests, either before or after school.

Lab Work – Lab work accounts for 25% of the overall quarterly grade.  Completed lab handouts will be kept on file in a pocket folder for each student.  The lab folder in an important part of the course and must be kept up to date.  In case of absence, limited lab make-up time is available during or after school (usually Wednesdays).  If a lab cannot be made up during the allotted time, a written report relating to the lab topic may be assigned in its place.  Satisfactory completion of lab work (including write-ups) is a New York State requirement for entrance into the Regents exam in June.

Class Work – Class work  accounts for 5% of the overall quarterly grade and includes taking notes, recording information obtained from teacher demonstrations, participating in class activities and completing related worksheets during class time.  

Materials Needed:        
1) three-ring binder (1½“ to 2”) 
2) set of 5 color tab index dividers
3) pocket folder (for labs)
4) pen and pencil (you need both!)
5) book cover (please, not the sticky kind! Textbook
    must be covered at all times.)  

Extra Help – Students may get help from me before, during, or after school by appointment.  Missed labs can generally made up after school on Wednesdays and I am always available for after school review before a quiz or test is given.

Interim Reports – On the day that school interim reports are given out in homeroom, I also give every one of my students a detailed printout of their biology work to date.  This report lists individual assignments, quizzes, and tests along with their scores. The report shows the overall grade and its breakdown into: homework (15%), class work/participation (5%), lab (25%), and quiz & test grades (55%).  Students must obtain the signature of their parent or guardian and return the interim report to me within a week of receiving it in class.  I give credit for the completion of this task!  If I don’t get the signed report back and I have concerns about a student’s work, I will make phone calls home.  

General Expectations:  

1.       Show respect for yourself, others, and your educational opportunities.

2.       Build a positive attitude and positive relationships.

3.       Always do your best.

4.       Be on time and prepared.

5.       Keep our room neat and clean.

 Communication is essential!  If you have any questions or concerns  please call me at 881-0310 X 61478.  You can also e-mail me at augugabr@shenet.org