AP Biology Preparation Course

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT: None

AVAILABILITY: Blyth Academy Online

Please Note: This is a preparation course only. A credit will not be issued by Blyth Academy Online. Students wishing to earn an Advanced Placement credit must write the official AP exam that is administered by the the College Board.

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Course Overview

Advanced Placement Biology online is an introductory college-level biology course. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes — energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions.

UNIT ONE
Biochemistry

Essential Question: How will a basic knowledge of chemistry help you understand and explain biological processes?

In this unit, students will learn the basics of chemistry as it relates to biology. Students will then look at cells and cell structure and then some more complex molecules and reactions that are specifically associated with living things.

UNIT TWO
Metabolic Processes

Essential Question: What energy drives cellular life and where does this energy come from and go to?

In this unit, students will investigate the metabolic processes that relate to energy production in plant and animal cells and how those processes are related to one another. The basic ideas that were examined prior will be investigated in much greater detail. Human manipulation of these natural processes, both positive and negative, will augment students understanding of cellular metabolism and its implications in daily life.

UNIT THREE
Molecular Genetics

Essential Question: How does DNA and RNA control the structure and function of cells and of entire organisms?

In this unit, students will learn about DNA from the history of its discovery to the methods of its manipulation in the field of biotechnology. We have come a long way since the early 1950’s when the DNA structure was first determined. In only 60 years we have moved forward at an exponential pace. We are now using this accumulated knowledge to discover the origin of disease, solve crimes and heal the sick. But, as our ability to understand and manipulate this molecule of life increases, it creates its own set of legal, moral and ethical issues that must be dealt with now and in the future.

UNIT FOUR
Homeostasis

Essential Question: How do processes that happen at a cellular level influence the structure, functions, and behaviours at the level of tissues, organs, organ systems or entire organisms?

In this unit, students will focus on the systems that allow the body to maintain itself in proper working order. To work appropriately, conditions within the body must be maintained at certain levels. As the outside environment changes constantly, the body must be able to counteract these changes to maintain the internal environment. This is homeostasis. Some of these systems allow for almost instant change while others ebb and flow as required. When these systems work in concert, the organism operates at peak efficiency, but, if something goes wrong, it can have far-reaching consequences.

UNIT FIVE
Population Dynamics

Essential Question: How does evolution pertain to: genetics, organ systems, ecosystems, cells, etc?

In this unit, students will learn about the characteristics of populations and ways in which populations interact with one another. Students will also learn ways to estimate populations and calculate population growth. Students will examine the factors affecting human population growth, paying particular attention to the impact of exponential human growth on the environment and how it contributes to our overall ecological footprint.

Please consult our Frequently Asked Questions Page or the Exam section within your course for more details on final exams and the exam fee. More information can also be found in our Student Handbook. 
 
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