HOPKINS ACADEMY BIOLOGY CURRICULUM 

Follow the links below to access curriculum outlines for each distinctive learning unit. 

Quarter 1

The school year begins with a review of scientific method, an introduction to biology and an introduction to basic statistical analysis. Topics that follow include physical and organic chemistry (structure and function of Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids), the structure and function of the cell membrane, transport systems, cells and cell organelles.  Unit 1: Introduction to biology Unit 2: Chemistry of Life Unit 3. The cell membrane and transport systems Unit 4: Cells and Cell Organelles

Quarter 2

During quarter 2, students apply their new skills and knowledge to the study of photosynthesis, cellular respiration (biochemical cycles/energy transfer), cell reproduction and an introduction to genetics.  ​ Unit 5: Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Unit 6: The Cell Cycle and Cell Reproduction Unit 7: The Work of Gregor Mendel  Unit 8: Introduction to Molecular Genetics ​

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Quarter 3

Students move forward to learn that genetic mutations, despite their potential to cause harm, also play a critical role in providing the variation necessary to drive the forces of natural selection. Quarter 3 includes studies of evolution, Population genetics, speciation and classification.  Unit 9: The work of Charles Darwin Unit 10: Evolution of populations Unit 11: Mechanisms of Speciation and Extinction Unit 12: Classification  ​

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Quarter 4

The School year concludes with a research paper with emphasis on scientific writing and revision. The final quarter includes studies of ecology, human physiology, extremophiles and the field of astrobiology. **Although research and analysis, and Mathematics and statistics are listed under quarter 4, students will be applying these skills to most of their lab work throughout the school years  Unit 13: Human Anatomy and Physiology Unit 14: Ecology

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