Biology

The biology program at NMH begins with the introductory-, honors-, and advanced-level courses in Biology I, which meet the NMH graduation requirement. After completing Biology I, interested and qualified students may choose from a number of elective courses or AP Biology. Students who wish to prepare for the AP exam in Biology may choose between the Extended Advanced Placement Biology course (to be offered beginning 2010-11) or the AP Biology course; both courses require written application and department approval.

BIO 311 Biology I

Credit:

One credit.* This course satisfies the NMH graduation requirement for a laboratory biology credit.

Prerequisite:

Open to sophomores and juniors. A previous high school course in science is required.

Using inquiry-based methods, students explore the principles and concepts of biology with emphasis at the cellular and organismal level. Classes include individual laboratory investigations, small-group work, and student presentations.

BIO 312 Botany

Credit:

One credit.*

Prerequisite:

Biology I or equivalent. Open to juniors and seniors.

Lab investigations and greenhouse work supplement a study of plant biology ranging from plant biochemistry to field ecology. Students become familiar with plant structure and physiology. Field collection of plants culminates in an herbarium. Final projects involve student-designed experiments with extensive work in the laboratory.

BIO 317 Human Physiology

Credit:

One credit.* Open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite:

Biology I or equivalent.

This study of the systems of the human body emphasizes the relationship between structure, function, and homeostatic regulation. Lecture presentations are supported by an extensive series of laboratory investigations. Final projects are student designed and explore one organ system in depth.

BIO 321 Honors Biology I

Credit:

One credit.* This course satisfies the NMH graduation requirement for a laboratory biology credit.

Prerequisite:

Honors grades in previous science courses and teacher recommendation. Open to sophomores and juniors with departmental approval.

Candidates for Honors Biology I should be accomplished students who are prepared for a fast-paced, intensive science course. Using inquiry-based methods, students explore the principles and concepts of biology. The course is divided into three equal sections: ecology and evolution; molecular and cell biology; genetics and organismal biology. Classes include both qualitative and quantitative laboratory experiences, small group work and student presentations. Upon completion of the course, successful students will be prepared for the SAT Biology M Subject Test.

BIO 331/BIO 511B Advanced Honors Biology/AP Biology B

Credit:

Two credits*

Prerequisite:

B+ or better in previous math and science courses, including completion of Algebra II, a full credit each of high school physics and high school chemistry, as well as strong reading and writing skills.

Students must be enrolled in both the fall and spring semesters of this linked two-credit course, and will be required to take the AP examiniation in May. Open to juniors and seniors who submit a written application and receive department approval.

This course is intended for advanced students who have exhibited strong skills and interest in science, but have had little or no high school biology coursework. This college-level course is based on the AP syllabus and includes introductory material and advanced topics, including molecular and cellular biology, physiology, genetics, and evolution. All major topics are accompanied by laboratory investigations from the AP syllabus. Candidates for this course should be accomplished science students who are interested in and prepared for an intensive biology course.

BIO 511 Advanced Placement Biology

Credit:

One credit.* Open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite:

B+ or above in biology and chemistry. Application and department approval required.

This college-level course, based on the AP syllabus, studies molecular and cellular biology, physiology, genetics, and evolution. All major topics are accompanied by investigations from the AP syllabus. Candidates for this course should be accomplished science students who are interested in and prepared for an intense biology course.

BIO/REL 1 Genetics and Ethics

Credit:

One credit. Open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite:

Biology I or equivalent.

Students receive a half credit in religious studies and a half credit in biology.

Taught jointly by a science teacher and a religious studies teacher, this course combines the study of genetics with an investigation of the ethical issues raised by recent scientific advances. Mendel’s laws of inheritance, analysis of the human karyotype, and DNA structure form the foundation of this study. Genetic abnormalities, genetic disease, DNA databases, reproductive technologies, stem-cell research, genetic engineering, and genetically modified organisms provide the issues for ethical analysis. An overview of ethical theories and a range of case studies offer opportunities for discussion and writing about bioethics. Students will do research and writing on topics of their choice.