Science

The following science classes are offered at Point Option. Each year the needs of Point Option students are taken into consideration when choosing what classes to offer for that school year. Biology and Earth Science require the students to take the Virginia Standards of Learning end of course exam.


Biology

This class introduces students to biological sciences. In this class students study introductory level biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, botany, zoology, microbiology, and environmental science.

Biology Syllabus: In Biology you will learn about the cell function, ecology, basic biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, the five Kingdoms of organisms and the interactions amongst these different groups. Labs will be an important and fun part of this class and will be included for each unit. I will be available most days after school until 3:30 to help you with any difficult assignments or concepts. Make up tests for excused absences can also be made up on Wednesdays and Fridays after school. I am looking forward to this year of biology with you all and I hope this class will be an exciting learning experience for you.

Rules and Regulations: (a detailed list of classroom procedures will be sent home during the first week of school)

  • BE ON TIME- we will need to cover a lot of information in order to be ready for our SOL's, and we can't afford to lose any time.
  • BE PREPARED- the following must be brought to every biology class: notebook (small three-ring binder to be used for this class only), book, paper and writing utensil.
  • BE RESPONSIBLE- Any horseplay with the equipment or in the lab will results in suspension and/or a zero on the lab.
  • Use the breaks between classes to take care of personal matters. Restroom should be utilized, snacks should be eaten and drinks should be obtained at this time. (Absolutely no food or drinks in the biology classroom).
  • Notebooks must be turned in at the end of each unit. All notes taken during the unit as well as returned graded assignments must be kept in an orderly three ring binder. Neatness and organization are critical.

Earth Science

Earth Science is taught as a Nova Net course. We will meet in the computer lab where you will be using this program to work at your own pace to complete the necessary modules. Your Nova Net program has module pre-tests and post-tests. Once each module is completed, each student is responsible for review of prescriptions on the sections of material in which questions were answered incorrectly. Post-tests will not be reassigned before review of prescribed modules.

Each semester is a ½ credit course, which together equal one (1) credit in Earth Science, a requirement for graduation from NNPS.

Rules and Regulations: (a detailed list of classroom procedures will be sent home during the first week of school)

  • BE ON TIME- we will need to cover a lot of information in order to be ready for our SOL's, and we can't afford to lose any time.
  • BE PREPARED- Students should obtain and keep up to date a hardcover composition notebook (no loose-leaf binders please) . Please purchase one of these as soon as possible, as notes are to be taken for each day's work, and pages may not be inserted later. These should be kept in the backpack at all times- no excuses for not having in class. They will be checked and graded periodically throughout the semester.
  • BE RESPONSIBLE- Any horseplay with the equipment or in the lab will results in suspension and/or a zero on the lab. At no time during class may the computers be used for personal use or the Internet. Students are expected to work quietly so as not to disturb others.
  • Use the breaks between classes to take care of personal matters. Restroom should be utilized, snacks should be eaten and drinks should be obtained at this time. (Absolutely no food or drinks in the computer lab).
  • Two individual mini projects per semester are required from each student. We will discuss these in more detail in class.

Field Biology

This is an exciting new course in which we will be looking at the many components of our natural ecosystems, utilizing field techniques coupled with library and Internet research to monitor and assess their health and status.  Plant and animal identification is emphasized as well as chemical, physical, and biological tests of the environment.  Intensive group research projects (with individual accountability), include data gathering, analysis, and presentation of results.

  • Each semester of Field Biology is a ½ credit course. Together they equal one (1) credit in Biology II, a requirement for graduation from NNPS.

Rules and Regulations: (A detailed list of classroom procedures will be sent home during the first week of school.)

  • BE ON TIME – Most classes will be held outdoors – many off premises -  don’t be left behind!  Students are expected to report directly to the bus --  no lingering in halls for snacks, drinks, etc.
  • BE PREPARED – SHOES THAT COMPLETELY COVER THE ENTIRE FOOT.  Open-toed shoes (like flip flops) will never be permitted in the field for safety reasons.  (poison ivy, briars, and slipping among them!!!)  We will occasionally do some wading – please keep a set of old clothes at school for these occasions – long pants and old shoes will do.  An extra set of clothes should also be kept at school just in case.  You must be prepared to go into wet and muddy areas even in cooler weather.  No barefoot wading!
  • BE RESPONSIBLE - Any horseplay with the in the field will results in suspension and/or a zero on the lab.  Safety is of utmost importance.  A small field notebook (pocket size) should be brought for notes.
  • NOTEBOOK – All class notes, hand-outs, labs, etc. will be kept in a three-ring binder to be used for this class only.  These will be turned in quarterly.