AP Biology - SC600A/B

AP Biology - SC600A/B

Learning Recommendations: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry with a grade of B or better is highly recommended. Proficiency in the use of computer software for word processing and spreadsheets. Readiness for reading content and volume, and writing expectations geared to a college-level course. Strong reading comprehension, text analysis ability, and writing skills. Considerable time commitment is expected outside of the school day

General Description: AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course following the College Board curriculum. It emphasizes four main concepts: evolution, cellular processes (energy and communication), genetics and information transfer, and interactions of biological systems. The course develops scientific inquiry and reasoning skills through designing data collection plans, analyzing data, applying mathematical routines, and connecting concepts across biological domains. Students will engage in college-level laboratory investigations and are expected to spend significant time studying outside of class. Successful completion of the AP Biology exam in May may result in college credit.

AP exam registration occurs in September and October, with fees varying each year. Scholarships are available for those who qualify. College credit may be earned with a passing score on the AP exam, though the score qualification and amount of credit earned vary by college.

This challenging and comprehensive course prepares highly motivated students for college-level biology studies and offers the opportunity to earn college credit through the AP exam.

Content:

The course is structured around four Big Ideas:

1. Evolution: The process drives the diversity and unity of life.
2. Cellular Processes: Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, reproduce, and maintain dynamic homeostasis.
3. Genetics and Information Transfer: Living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information essential to life processes.
4. Interactions of Biological Systems: Biological systems interact, and these interactions possess complex properties.

Additional content includes:

• Ecology
• Chemistry of life
• Cell structure and function
• Cellular energetics
• Cell communication and cell cycle
• Heredity
• Gene expression and regulation
• Natural selection

Homework: Students should expect homework at least 3-5 times per multi-week unit. Assignments include practice packets, article readings and analyses, and lab activity write-ups. Beyond written homework, students are expected to spend 30-60 minutes per night reviewing and studying AP Biology content.

Equipment to be Provided by Student:

• Notebook
• Set of colored pencils
• Four-function (with square root), scientific, or graphing calculator
• Cliff's AP Biology Manual or similar review material

Course Fees: Course fees may apply