AP Biology
Course Description
College-level survey of modern biology emphasizing evolution, energetics, information flow, and systems interaction. Students build scientific reasoning through labs, statistical analysis, modeling, and frequent writing, preparing for the AP exam and future college science. Substantial outside study time and consistent preparation are expected.
| Credits | 10 |
| UC A–G Area | G — College-Preparatory Elective (confirm on UCOP A–G list) |
| Level & GPA Weight | AP (weighted; confirm UCOP/district policy) |
| Recommended Grades | G10–G12 |
| Prerequisites | Algebra I |
| Textbook | Modified Mastering Biology for Campbell Biology 12th Edition AP Edition for Advanced Placement. Author(s): Urry, Lisa | Cain, Michael | Wasserman, Steven | Minorsky, Peter | Orr, Rebecca ISBN-13: 9780136486879 (This is an e-textbook, which can be purchased through the school at a discounted price of $65.) |
AP Biology “Big Ideas”
- Evolution: Processes that drive the diversity and unity of life.
- Energetics: Use of energy and building blocks to grow, reproduce, and maintain homeostasis.
- Information: Storage, retrieval, transmission, and response to biological information.
- Systems: Interactions within and among biological systems.
Course Outline
1. Evolution — change over time; common ancestry; evolution in changing environments; origins of living systems.
2. Energetics & Homeostasis — energy & matter for life; internal regulation; feedback; environmental influences; temporal regulation.
3. Information — heredity; gene expression; genetic variation; cell signaling; information-driven change.
4. Systems Interactions — interactions in systems; competition & cooperation; diversity and ecological dynamics. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Delivery Options & Tuition
| Model | What’s Included | Live Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independent Asynchronous | Self-paced modules, graded work, email Q&A | — | $1,098 |
| Teacher-Guided Asynchronous | Instructor pacing, periodic check-ins, grading & feedback | 8 hours | $1,970 |
| Mini-One-on-One | Targeted coaching, lab/problem-solving clinics, AP practice | 20 hours | $2,380 |
| One-on-One | Fully personalized instruction & pacing | 38 to 42 hours | Varies ($119/hr) |
Laboratory & Practical Work
Strong online lab components aligned to AP investigation types; written analyses emphasize data handling, statistical reasoning, and modeling. Some labs may be performed under the teacher’s supervision via Zoom with safe household substances.
Time & Workload Expectations
- Learning of curriculum: 38 to 42 hours (diverse combination of live sessions and/or independent studies, depending on the choice of the delivery model)
- Review, Homework, and Preparing for tests and exams: 40 to 42 hours
- Communication: Email Q&A and periodic progress updates are available in all models.
- Weekly load scales with your course window (start/end dates). Example formula:
(live hours + independent hours) ÷ weeks ≈ weekly time
Grading & Course Policies
| Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Tests/Quizzes | 20% |
| Homework | 20% |
| Midterm | 20% |
| Final Exam | 20% |
| Lab | 20% |
- Preparedness: Have materials ready and review the assigned content before live class where applicable.
- Tardiness: >15 min = UT (Unexcused Tardy); >30 min = UA (Unexcused Absence).
- Devices: Phones on silent only for instructional capture; unauthorized use during assessments = automatic F.
- Absences: Notify the instructor/office of planned absences as early as possible.
Office Hours & Notes
- Office Hours: by appointment as needed upon office approval.
- Pacing Guide: Personalized to your start/end dates and seasonal schedules.
- Accessibility: Reasonable accommodations available—please notify counselor/instructor during onboarding.
- Parent Updates: Progress check-ins available upon request.