ACT
BIOLOGY
T. Asmaa Al-Wazzan
   The capacity to learn is a gift
    the ability to learn is a skill
the willingness to learn is a choice
Course Description
Welcome to ACT biology! I aspire to promote scientific literacy and
provide greater understanding of the natural world and the process of
scientific thinking. In this course I aim to produce students who are well-
prepared to enter the biology high school examination of their choice.This
course is designed to provide a general background for the understanding
of the science of Biology. It covers the basic material for ACT Biology
Subject Test and helps students gain in-depth knowledge of the different
biological concepts which allow them to go deeper and apply for the AP
biology test.
Students will learn through texts, videos, modeling, online interactives and
through hands-on and virtual lab investigations. I hope to draw
connection points between content and current issues in our world,
provide students with confidence to tackle biology related problems and
develop an
understanding of key concepts that will help them make sense of life
science.
Little about the Teacher
My name is Asmaa Al-Wazzan, University of Jordan graduate with a
master degree in Analytical Toxicology and bachelor degree in Biological
Sciences. I have been working for more than a decade in the academic
field teaching and influencing the life of students of different ages, levels
and backgrounds.
Communication
Parental involvement can lead to academic gains for students, hence I
work towards fostering a strong parent engagement, breaking down
barriers, and providing support for all students.
Though parent-teacher communication will always require a mutual
effort on both sides, I humbly ask you to maintain a positive
communication through B12 platform, email and parent-teacher
meetings. This allows the teacher to share regular information about
how students are progressing and engaging with lessons at school.
Teacher- students communication shall be carried on through email.
Content
Listed below are the needed topics for ACT Biology which
are going to be covered through the course of two years
                                            Biochemistry, Cell
                                   Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding,
      Biology Process
                                   Organic and Inorganic Compounds,
      Scientific Inquiry
                                   Enzymes, ATP
      Math and
                                   Properties of Water, pH of Solutions
      Measurement in
                                   Cell Types, Functions of Organelles
      Science
                                   Movement of Substances in and Out of
      Science in Practice
                                   the cell
      Foundation of
                                   Cellular Respiration
      Biology
                                   Cell Division and Mitosis
        Genetics, Evolution         Animal/ Plant Systems and Ecology
    Basic Structure and Function       Describe Types of Animal and
    of DNA, RNA and Protein            Plant Cells and Tissues
    Meiosis                            Describe Photosynthesis
    Terminology of Genetic             Identify Taxonomic Levels of
    Crosses                            Organisms
    Evolution and Theory of            Classification, Explain Binomial
    Natural Selection                  Nomenclature
    Requirement to be Species          Define Ecological Levels of
    Explain Shared Evolutionary        Organization
    Relationship Between               Describe Influence of Biotic and
    Organisms                          Abiotic Factors on Biome Type
Class Rules
In order to provide a proper classroom learning environment, the following
rules will be enforced at all times:
    Be ready with required material when the bell rings.
    Follow directions the first time given. Always follow the teacher's
    instructions.
    Tests, quizzes and assignments can’t be made up unless the student has an
    excused absence according to the school policy.
   Raise hands to be called on during class.
   Refrain from disturbing others physically, verbally, or otherwise.
   Have NO food in class at any time, before or after the bell rings. This
   includes gum!
   Demonstrate proper respect for teachers, other students, and school
   property.
   It is the student’s responsibility to obtain any missed work and notes in
   cases of excused absences.
Expectations
   Students are expected to be ready to do a quiz/test at any time.
   Students are expected to complete homework, summary or study guides
   on a daily basis.
   Complete all assignments as assigned. All work must be completed to
   receive full credit.
   Put forth your best effort. Be responsible for your own learning.
   Read directions carefully.
   Believe in your abilities. Confidence is half the battle.
   Read all text and supplementary materials as assigned.
   Try, and then try again.
   Ask Questions!
   Practice. Practice. Practice
Needed Material/Stationary
The following items should be with you all the time.
   Miller and Levine Biology        Pen, Pencils              Highlighters
   Course Book.                     Colored pencils           Folder
   Notebook (preferably A4 )        Scissors                  Glue
Grading System
    Summative Tests 80%
    Quizzes 10%
    Classwork and Lab work 5%
    Homework 5%
The number of tests and assessments will be determined along the course
of the school year.