EMAIL DETAILS

Dear 8th grade parents,
As you know, all students will take either Biology I or Biology IA in ninth grade. The course descriptions are printed below. Science teachers will be discussing these options with all students over the next few weeks and will be making placements, which will be communicated on the final report card in June.

BIOLOGY I-1 credit; year course
Open to: 9 Meets 5 times per week
Biology I is a comprehensive first-year course that assumes solid knowledge of basic physical science. All levels
of biological organization are depicted from molecules through cells, tissues, organs, individuals, populations,
species, communities, and ecosystems. The first semester focuses on the cell and its chemistry, structure, and
function, and on classical and molecular genetics. Evolution, ecology, and the diversity of life, with an
emphasis on humans and their systems are covered second semester. Laboratory work and technology are
integral parts of the course. Tests emphasize critical thinking, application of principles, and recall of facts.

BIOLOGY I Accelerated-1 credit; year
Open to: 9 Meets 6 times per week
This is a more comprehensive, in-depth study of Biology than Biology I. The course elaborates on many of the
topics introduced in middle school biology - treating these topics in more detail and with more sophisticated
laboratory work. All levels of biological organization are examined - from the molecule through the cells, tissues,
organs, individuals, populations, species, communities and the world biome. The tests in this course emphasize
critical thinking, applications, and recall of facts. Aspects of health and environmental concerns as well as sociobiological issues are included.
Technology and computer use are heavily integrated into the program. Students
work with video microscopes and image capture hardware and software. Students learn how to make web pages,
use the internet, Power Point, Excel, Word, and other software packages that are available on the schools
network. Each student is required to do an independent scientific research project.

Sally Selby