Students shall be awarded one credit for successful completion of this course. There are no prerequisites required for this class. This course is recommended for students in grades 9, 10, and 11.

In biology, students:

• conduct field and laboratory investigations
• use scientific methods during investigations
• make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving

Students in biology study a variety of topics that include:

• structures and functions of cells and viruses
• growth and development of organisms
• cells, tissues, and organs
• nucleic acids and genetics
• biological evolution
• taxonomy
• metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms
• living systems
• homeostasis
• ecosystems
• plants and the environment

Students are expected to:

• demonstrate safe practices during investigations
• make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials
• plan and implement investigative procedures
• collect data and take measurements
• communicate valid conclusions
• apply scientific method procedures
• describe the connection between biology and future careers