The focus of Honors Biology is to give students an understanding of the living world by concentrating on the molecular and cellular levels of organization and applying these fundamental structural and functional units to the diverse forms of life. Integrating life concepts such as cell structure and function; genetics; meeting energy requirements; maintenance of internal environment; mechanisms of support, growth, and development; and, continuity of form and function are mastered at the molecular level and then applied to the whole organism, plant or animal. Dynamic interrelationships among the varied forms of life are explored, with an emphasis on human interaction in the biological world. The honors course demands a more in-depth approach, a higher level of reading comprehension, and substantial outside reading and research. Current topics in biology, such as recombinant DNA, are investigated. Student placement is determined by the department chair and the Assistant Principal for Academics following a review of entrance scores, additional standardized testing and grade reports in math and reading.
- Teacher: Keith Klestinski