Use a model to illustrate how photosynthesis transforms light energy into stored chemical energy. 
Construct and revise an explanation based on evidence for how carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from sugar molecules may combine with other elements to form amino acids and/or other large carbon-based molecules.
Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
Use mathematical representations to support and revise explanations based on evidence about factors affecting biodiversity and populations in ecosystems of different scales.
Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.
Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Evaluate the evidence for the role of group behavior on individual and species’ chances to survive and reproduce.
Create a computational simulation to illustrate the relationships among management of natural resources, the sustainability of human populations, and biodiversity.

I have taught middle and high school science for the last 7 years in addition to 5 years of tutoring middle and high school students in several different courses. I have taught this content in particular for over three years and it is one of my favorites!

0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Assignments
Frequency: 1-2 per week
Feedback: as needed
Details: Students may be required to complete 30-60 minutes of assignments, reading, activities, etc. per week depending on the flow of the class. 
Grading
Frequency: 3-6 throughout the class
Details: Assessments will be given as an indication of how well a student is learning the content and skills for the class and to help me continuously develop a better curriculum. Students will be assigned a number on a proficiency scale* that lets the student, parent, and teacher know how the student is doing. Each assignment will have a rubric attached to it letting the student, parent, and teacher know the expectations for the assessment. 

Assessments may be multiple choice, free response, modeling, or many other types. Most assessments will be taken in class, but some may be at-home projects. 

Assessment retakes and/or revisions will be provided and encouraged. 

*See Grading Policy for our Proficiency Scale

We will be using various sources such as federal websites, state/territory websites, research articles, etc.