Kristen Morgensen, M.S.

Blackford Room 4
408-553-0394
Kristen.Morgensen@harker.org

8th Grade Biology Course Description

The course of study for the eighth grade is biological science with an emphasis on human biology. We look
for connections between biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, and biological evolution. During the second
semester, the focus is on human biology, with an in-depth study of the endocrine, reproductive,
circulatory, nervous, respiratory, immune and musculoskeletal systems. There are weekly lab experiments
and activities including dissections to further the understanding of mammalian anatomy and physiology.
Throughout the year we keep abreast of current research in the biological sciences by reading and
discussing recent news articles.

Course Objectives
To provide a solid academic background that prepares students for future course
work in science or technology
To demonstrate how studying biology relates to a better understanding of oneself
and an appreciation of the complexity of the human body and the need to take care
of it properly
To promote an appreciation for science and a realization that the knowledge gained
through scientific inquiry is built upon the work of previous scientists and is always
expanding
To present students with a variety of challenging opportunities and extensive
laboratory experiences to learn about science and the process of scientific inquiry
To teach and demonstrate respect and appreciation for all living organisms and their
place in the environment

Semester 1

Topics Covered in this Course

Semester 2

The Scientific Process and Collaboration

Evolution

Characteristics of Life

Endocrine system

Biochemistry and Macromolecules

Reproductive system

Cellular biology

Nervous system

Mitosis/meiosis

Immune system

Mendelian genetics

Cardiovascular system

Molecular genetics

Musculoskeletal system

Current biotech applications

Fetal pig dissection (all previously studied systems)

Course Text and Materials
Nowicki, Stephen. Holt McDougal Biology: Student Edition 2012.
Lab Notebook style 3001.

Bring to class every day:
Lab notebook
Science Section in a binder
Blank paper
Pencil, blue or black pen, several colored pencils or markers
Your completed homework as assigned

You do not need to bring your text to class, as there are extra copies in the classroom. I will
let you know when to bring in your laptop.

Extra Help
See me anytime you have questions or seek extra help. The Science Extra Help priority day is on
Thursday with Test Priority Day on Monday. If you are required to attend Science EH, you must
report to Room 4 to complete your work. If you would like to work in room 4 for EH, but are not
required, you are always welcome and are expected to effectively use your time to complete
schoolwork.

Grading:

Your semester grade will be based upon the following:

Assessments 40%: This category includes but is not limited to projects, tests, and
quizzes all major grades that do not fall into the laboratory category.
Laboratories 40%: Labs will take place throughout the week with several continuing
over more than one period. Strict laboratory safety procedures will be enforced as
described in The Harker Middle School Student Laboratory Safety Contract. If you
are absent for a lab, there will not be a make-up for the lab. However, it is your
responsibility to collect data and observations from a classmate and complete the
assigned laboratory analysis to be handed in for a grade.
Notebook 10%: Notebooks will be collected once a month and checked for
completeness. A rubric will be provided to you about a week prior to submission so
that you may check your notebook for missing assignments.
Homework 10%: Homework is to be completed before you come to class. All
homework is posted to the PCR. As in class activities will be based on previous
homework assignments, there may be times participation in an activity is prohibited
without sufficient completion of the homework. Students may be asked to
complete the assignment during class prior to joining the group work. Students who
do not submit missing homework by the following day will be assigned to 10th
period.

LATE WORK POLICY: As a general rule, 10% of the maximum points possible will be
deducted per day late for projects and homework. Excused absences will not result in
points lost due to lateness and arrangements must be made with instructor.

The semester grade is cumulative over the course of the entire semester grading period.
The semester exam accounts for 20% of the final grade.