In this eight-week Biology course, students will explore essential topics covered in a typical high school biology course. The course begins by looking at cells and the various macromolecules that are important for life, and their role in maintaining homeostasis. Students will learn the basics of DNA structure, replication and protein synthesis before moving on to the study of genetics. Students will explore Gregor Mendel and his principles of inheritance, discuss what happens when those principles do not apply, and practice predicting offspring probabilities using Punnett Squares. Students will reflect on important biotechnological advancements in the field of genetics before moving on to the Evolution unit. In this unit students will explore the evidence behind the theory and consider the process of natural selection as the mechanism for evolution, reviewing and predicting trends in populations. In the final Ecology unit, students will identify the organizational hierarchy of our planet, trace the flow of energy and cycling of nutrients through ecosystems, and uncover the advantage and delicate balance of biodiversity. In the last week of the course, students will consider human impacts on biodiversity and the planet, and discuss ways in which our actions can support the sustainability of life on Earth.
Throughout the 8 weeks, students will be using both hands-on lab activities, as well as virtual lab activities to investigate topics. The online interactive Ebook will provide background reading that allows students to highlight their text, take notes while reading, and answer questions along the way to gauge their understanding of the readings. Throughout many of the units, students will be asked to create and analyze models of systems and processes and will participate in weekly discussions around current events or other relevant topics.
Please note that because this course is eight weeks in duration, and students are expected to work approximately ten hours per week, the course will therefore not cover a full year's curriculum with the same depth that is covered in a year-long course. In addition, if the student is taking this course for credit recovery, it is advised that you check with the student's school to confirm that the topics covered (see course syllabus) match those required by the school. You may also want to confirm with the school the process for receiving credits, which may involve an assessment administered separately by the school.
Students will need to procure select materials for lab work. A complete list of materials is at the bottom of the syllabus for the course.
*Students who plan to transfer credit from VHS Learning to their full-time high school should check with their school to confirm they will accept the credits before registering for a VHS Learning summer course.