AP Biology
Course Syllabus
Course Name: AP Biology
I Course Information
Course Number: 4502
Level: Honors
Department: Science
II Course Description
Prerequisite: Biology Honors and Chemistry
Open to: Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors
Length: Year
Credit: 1
Summary: This course is taught at the college level and designed to prepare
students to take the Advanced Placement Examination and score high enough to
earn college credit in those colleges that recognize the examination. College
level textbooks are used. The course will follow the College Board’s syllabus:
chemistry of life cells, cellular energetics, heredity, molecular genetics,
evolutionary biology, diversity of organisms, structure and function of plants
and animals, and ecology. Since the College Board AP exam includes four essay
questions, this course will require essay practice.
III Course Goals
1. Use inquiry, reasoning, and critical thinking skills to assess and analyze
biological phenomena.
2. Understand and apply the scientific process skills to answer questions and
solve problems within a biological context.
3. Use collaborative groups to conduct scientific investigations, share ideas,
and present research findings.
4. Identify, understand, and appreciate the diversity, continuity, and
relationships among living things.
5. Assess and analyze the intra- and interconnectedness of biological kingdoms.
6. Provide opportunities for students to utilize educational institutions,
programs, and technology.
IV Textbooks and Materials
Biology - 6th edition, by Raven and Johnson
V Course Outline
First Semester
Units of Instruction:
I. Chemistry
II. Cells
III. Cellular Energetics
IV. Cellular Reproduction
V. Heredity
VI. Molecular Genetics
Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes
Second Semester Units of Instruction and Assessments:
Units of Instruction:
VII. Evolutionary Biology
VIII. Diversity of Organisms
IX. Structure and Function of Plants and Animals
X. Ecology
Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes
(Parents and students: please
consult individual teachers for grading policies, extra credit info, class
procedures, etc.)
