MARTHA C. PINEROS

COURSE DESCRIPTION
The focus of this class is on the theory and methodology of evolutionary biology. Although we will discuss the evolution of certain species in particular (such as humans and dinosaurs), the emphasis will be on the theories for how life on earth has changed over time and the strategies scientists use to construct these theories. We will also discuss how humans can and have affected other species. Students will read the novel Brave New World in order to spark discussion on the future of our species.

TARGET POPULATION
This is a middle level course in the Science sequence and is open to both Regular and Special Education students.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF COURSE This course is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of the principles of evolution. In the process, we will examine topics relating to anatomy, genetics, geology, and paleontology.

MAJOR TOPICS/THEMES
I.Creation accounts
the scientific method
how is evolution different from other creation accounts
scientific theories for the origin of life on Earth
arguments against the theory of evolution

II. Charles Darwin & Natural Selection
history of evolutionary thought
principles of natural selection
Mendelian genetics

III. The Fossil record
types of rocks
stratification
elements & half-life
fossilization process

IV. Functional Morphology
gathering evidence from teeth
what can we learn from limb proportions/shape

V. Research Paper
choosing a topic
conducting research (possible trip to the Queens Public Library)
writing multiple drafts of a research paper
using footnotes & bibliography

VI. Case study: The Rise and fall of the Dinosaurs
adaptive radiation of the dinosaurs
dinosaur extinction

VII. The Future
read Brave New World
cloning
genetic engineering

ALIGNMENT TO STANDARDS
Topics covered in this course correspond to the Science Standards #4, Living Environment sections 1,2,3,6
Students will explain:

How diversity of populations within ecosystems relates to the stability of ecosystems. How the technology of genetic engineering allows humans to alter the genetic make-up of organisms
The mechanisms and patterns of evolution
How the living and non-living environments change over time and respond to disturbances

The Research Paper corresponds to the English Language Arts standards for writing

RESOURCES AND MATERIALS TO USE
Students will have available various biology textbooks, and periodicals to conduct research, as well as access to the Internet. The books and periodicals available include:

Biology an Everyday Experience - textbook
Pathways in Biology - textbook
Brave New World - science-fiction novel
Evolutionary Biology - textbook
The Human Evolution Coloring Book
The Evolution Book

We will also watch several documentaries throughout the course of the semester.

ASSESSMENT MEASURES
Students will be given tests periodically. In addition, they will complete a variety of assignments, both in and out of the class, including:

Lab: Determine the age/lifestyle of a collection of "bones"
Lab: How dinosaurs controlled body temperature
Drosophila experiments
Debate: Why did dinosaurs become extinct
Critical review of documentaries
Reading Journal
Field trip to the American Museum of Natural History (visit dinosaur hall and Human Evolution Hall)

Students will write a research paper that may be included in their Science Graduation Portfolio. The research paper will be graded according to the rubric developed by the New York Performance Standards Consortium.