Biology 2 - Full Year Course with Labs (REAL Science Odyssey) - Semester 2
This is the second half of a year long, comprehensive biology course with weekly laboratory activities, research assignments, and microscopy labs, using R.S.O. Biology 2 as a curriculum. All assignments will be graded and given individualized feedback by the instructor.
Alison Blanco, M.S.
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(5)
What's included
16 live meetings
16 in-class hoursHomework
Each week, students will be expected to read the chapter (2-8 pages) before class. There are four assignments to complete each week: 1- Lab or Hands-on Activity 2- Microscope Lab 3- Famous Science Series (research and answer questions on a specific biology topic) 4- Chapter Review/Quiz (called "Show What You Know") Some weeks, there will also be a Unit Exam. The assignments will take approximately 4 hours per week, with some weeks requiring a bit more time for the labs.Assessment
All assignments will be uploaded to Google Classroom, and will receive feedback and a numerical grade. Each week, students are expected to turn in 4 assignments to be graded. 1- Activity or Lab 2- Microscope Lab 3- Famous Science Series (research on a specific biology topic) 4- Chapter Review/Quiz (Show What You Know) Some weeks, there will also be a Unit Exam. The instructor will enter the grades into a gradebook (in Google Classroom), and the student will have access to view their gradebook at all times. A Grade Report will be given at the end of each semester. Students can also opt out of grading if desired.Grading
includedClass Experience
US Grade 7 - 9
This rigorous, comprehensive course will engage students as they develop a deeper understanding of biology. Students will be challenged to apply their knowledge and skills to a variety of hands-on activities in class and outside of class. The class will focus on active student participation, hands-on laboratory assignments, and the development of critical thinking skills. Students will not only be learning science, they will be DOING science. Class will meet live weekly for one hour to discuss and learn about that week’s biology topics. There will be a live lecture with slideshow, class discussion, and cooperative learning. We will spend time discussing labs and activities, and on occasion, students will present projects to the class. Students will be encouraged to be actively engaged in class by answering questions and working together on class activities. Outside of class, students will use hands-on investigation and scientific modeling to learn about the wonderful world of biology, from cells to ecosystems. Each week, students will work on assignments outside of class, and hand in assignments through Google Classroom. There are four assignments most weeks, with a combination of hands-on labs and activities, microscope labs, research assignments pertaining to the week's topic, and a chapter review/quiz. All assignments will receive individualized feedback from the instructor, as well as a numerical grade. Weekly Schedule - Semester 2 Week 1 – Circulatory & Respiratory Systems Week 2 – Skeletal & Muscular Systems Week 3 – Immune & Lymphatic Systems Week 4 – Evolution – A Story of Luck Week 5 – Evolution – How Week 6 – Evolution – Evidence Week 7 – Evolution – When Week 8 – The Biosphere Week 9 – Predator & Prey Week 10 – Cycles Week 11 – Threats Week 12 – Taxonomy Week 13 – Domains Bacteria & Archaea Week 14 – Kingdom Plantae Week 15 – Kingdom Animalia Week 16 – Kingdoms Fungi & Protists This listing is for Semester 2 of this year long course.
Learning Goals
Skills Gained
Students in this class will obtain a deeper understanding of the living world through readings, lecture, activities, and laboratory work. We will also work to develop the following skills:
- Writing a high quality lab report
- Research of non-fiction scientific topics
- Evaluation of sources and materials
- Using and recognition of proper lab technique and skills
- Analyzing current events in biology and recognizing bias
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Some labs will require parental guidance and assistance such as dissection, slide preparation, or other activities. Alternative assignments will be given to those students not wanting to participate in animal dissection.
Google Classroom will be used to post assignments, turn in assignments, and keep track of grades. Google Docs, Google Jamboard, Google Drive, & Google Sheets will be used as supplemental tools in and out of live class times. Students will need to use a Google account to work with Google software. These accounts are free, but may need to be monitored by the parent.
I post educational videos on YouTube that pertain to the topic of study. All videos have been vetted and are from reputable sources, but parents may need to monitor the use of this website.
Supply List
- R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey Biology 2 student text ($62.99) and workbook ($49.99) - https://www.pandiapress.com - Lab supplies will be needed for this class, including a microscope, microscope slides, dissection specimens and tools, and a variety of household materials. A detailed list of supplies will be provided once student is enrolled or upon request.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
- R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey Biology 2 student text ($62.99) and workbook (49.99) - https://www.pandiapress.com
- Internet access
- A computer with microphone and camera for in-class participation
- Lab materials: most are commonly found items. A few items (such as dissection specimens) are easily obtained from science supply vendors. A complete list is available on curriculum page once enrolled, or available upon request.
- Microscope (optional but recommended)
- Google account (free) for use with Google Classroom, Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Jamboard.
Joined January, 2019
5.0
5reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Science from Florida Gulf Coast University
Bachelor's Degree in Science from University of Florida
Alison Blanco is an environmental scientist living in Southwest Florida and has worked on projects involving the Florida panther, fire in Florida's ecosystems, and other conservation biology issues. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Florida and a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science from Florida Gulf Coast University. Alison has taught biological and physical science to middle, high school, and college students in both public school and the private sector for over 20 years. Reviews
Live Group Class
$320
for 16 classes1x per week, 16 weeks
60 min
Completed by 15 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-15
6-12 learners per class
