Accelerated Biology

This course will meet the U.C. & C.S.U. Laboratory Science requirements for entrance. NOT a Weighted Course (universities do not recognize weighted courses for freshmen students).
(9)
Year
Prerequisites: Same as for incoming 9th graders to regular biology, plus 8TH GRADE SCIENCE TEACHER RECOMMENDATION REQUIRED. No exceptions or waivers will be considered.

This course is for the highest achieving student who is considering taking AP (advanced placement) biology as a Junior or Senior. This class is different from the regular biology classes in that it is able to go more in-depth into each content area and science standards, it incorporates more hands on and inquiry lab activities as well as problem based learning situations (real world application of biological concepts). Student laboratory research is encouraged, as students will work with a group or individually on a unique scientific problem, with the goal being to enter that project into a local, state or national science fair. This course is considered to be a pre-AP class. Students enrolling should understand that it is a yearlong course, due to the nature of the thematic organization of the units of study.

Student Criteria Summary:
1. High interest in hands on inquiry and problem based science.
2. Above grade level reading ability.
3. Self-motivated, responsible, and organized.
4. Computer literacy including familiarity with the use email, word processing, and the Web as a resource tool.