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Clownfish in Aquarium

Biology
(Available 2027-2028)

Students will gain a basic knowledge of biology and learn current applications as to why this science is important to society.  Students will study influential scientists to learn valuable characteristics that helped them become successful; students will research areas of interest to help develop passions; and students will perform a variety of labs and activities to solidify biology concepts being studied.  From molecular biology and the organization of a cell, to ecosystems and how organisms and the physical environment interact, we’ll explore many areas of biology that will help us appreciate our world, and the need to take care of it.  Students will also study systems of their body, learning the value of healthy living.  Dissections of a wide array of animals will help students learn how systems work within animals, and within ourselves too.  This class will have field trips, and many hand-on experiences to enjoy.

Biology curriculum

Concepts Studied

  • The science of biology

  • Chemistry of life

  • Cell structure and function

  • Introduction to Genetics

  • DNA, RNA and Protein Synthesis

  • Darwin’s Theory of Evolution

  • Ecosystems and Biomes

  • Viruses and Prokaryotes

  • Protists and Fungi

  • Introduction to Animals

  • Digestive System and overall health

  • Nervous Systems

  • Skeletal, Muscular, and Integumentary Systems

  • Circulatory and Respiratory Systems

Biology curriculum

Projects Completed

  • 1 Experiment Project on an area of interest

  • 2 Research Projects on an area of interest 

  • 1 presentation on a scientist of interest

  • Various short presentations on current scientific events and biology topics

  • Dissections of cow eyeball, sheep heart, frog, perch, sheep brain

Biology curriculum

Skills developed

  • Read a textbook to gain basic understanding

  • Maintain a lab notebook

  • Understand and write scientific papers

  • Presentation skills

  • Self-directed learning in areas of interest

  • Creating science projects

  • Cultivate internal motivation

  • Learning to work with a group

  • Produce quality work

Biology curriculum

Abilities developed

  • Looking at systems as a whole, not isolated

  • Making connections between different areas of science

  • Scientific writing through lab reports

  • Cultivate internal motivation

  • Take personal responsibility

Biology curriculum

Student Expectations

  • Come to class with assigned reading/problems/presentations complete

  • Come prepared with questions from assigned reading/problems

  • Read weekly emails and take the time to ponder given question and be prepared for a discussion

  • Always come with a positive attitude

  • Be respectful of all other students

Class Information

When:  Mondays, 11:15 - 1:15

Who:  Minimum of 5 students, maximum of 10 students

Age Recommendation: 14+

Where:  Sarah's Home (Philomath), or Zoom

Lab Fee (non-refundable):  $140, paid at checkout to hold your spot

  • Includes all material and supplies for the year needed for labs, activities, field trips, and dissections

Class Fee (last day to withdraw Sept 30):  $28/2-hour class, 27 week course, monthly payment option available at checkout.

  • excludes

    • required books and supplies needed

  • includes ​​

    • Class preparation and instruction, mentoring, presentation feedback, weekly emails, end-of-class certificates and portfolio information

​

Required Books

  • Biology by Miller and Levine, 2010 student edition (buy used)​

  • The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey by Candice Millard (unabridged)​

  • The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer

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Supplies Needed

  • Colored pencils or markers

Class Schedule

Available upon request

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