AP Biology (Life Science)

Course No: 3014
Subject: Science
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: Year
Course Type: AP/Honors, Elective
UC/CSU Subject Approval: D
Prerequisite: Science GPA of 3.3 or higher, with successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Overall GPA of 3.3 or higher. Students not meeting these criteria may submit an appeal (see alternate criteria under Criteria for Enrollment).
Criteria for Enrollment: Alternate Criteria (for appeal) – Science GPA of 3.7 or higher and successful completion of Biology and Chemistry and Overall GPA 3.7 or higher and approval of the department chair.
Fulfillments: One of two years of science; UC approved laboratory science course

Important Science Department Information

The AP Biology course is equivalent in content, depth, and complexity to an introductory biology course at the college level. This course is designed to prepare the student to excel on the AP exam offered in May, and follows the AP curriculum.  AP Biology is an in-depth, content-intensive study of biological principles that allows students the opportunity to engage hands-on in scientific experimentation. Units of study include but are not limited to evolution and natural selection, the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, cellular energetics, cell communication and the cell cycle, heredity, gene expression and regulation, and ecology.  Students are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May. Students are required to complete an assignment over the summer due on the first day of school.

Corequisite – Students enrolling in this course must also enroll in the corresponding AP Science Laboratory course, which meets once per week for 50 minutes outside of the regular bell schedule. Meetings will occur before or after school.

* Class receives honors weighting in SI weighted GPA and UC/CSU GPA calculations