Foundations of High School Biology: From Cells to Systems

From the first lesson, students are drawn into the fascinating world of biological sciences. The course begins with an overview of the scientific methods that biologists use to uncover the mysteries of life, setting the stage for a semester filled with discovery and learning. Each unit of the course builds on the previous one, ensuring that students not only accumulate knowledge but also understand how these concepts connect across different areas of biology.

The teaching style in "Foundations of Biology" is characterized by its energy and emphasis on real-life connections. Lessons are not just lectures but are interactive experiences that engage students with vibrant visuals, compelling narratives, and relevant examples from the world around them. This approach helps demystify complex concepts, making them accessible and interesting. The curriculum is also project-based, encouraging students to apply what they learn through hands-on projects that simulate real-world biological research and investigations.

Projects range from designing experiments to test genetic theories to creating models that simulate ecological systems, allowing students to see the direct impact of biological sciences on real-world issues, such as environmental conservation, public health, and genetic engineering. This method not only reinforces the material covered but also helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills.

A pivotal component of this course is the weekly lab experience, designed to complement the theoretical knowledge gained in lectures. Each lab is an opportunity for students to explore biological topics with their hands and engage in real experiences that enhance their understanding of the subject matter. The labs are crafted to ensure safety and accessibility, with material lists provided a week in advance so students can gather everything they need either from home or through minimal purchases at local stores.

Approximately half of each class session dedicated to labs is spent setting up and beginning the experiment or activity. This hands-on time is crucial for students to make the connection between the theoretical concepts discussed during lectures and the tangible outcomes observed in their experiments. For instance, while studying cell biology, students might conduct a lab to extract DNA from fruit or model the process of mitosis using everyday items. These labs are not just about following instructions; they are designed to be exploratory, allowing students to make predictions, observe outcomes, and even experience 'failures' that are valuable learning opportunities.