Biology Learning Goals (updated 2016):
1. Students will be proficient in using fundamental biological concepts, including:
a. Evolution: The diversity of life evolved over time by processes of mutation, selection, and genetic drift.
b. Structure and Function: Basic units of structure define the function of all living things.
c. Information flow, exchange, and storage: The development, maintenance, and behavior of organisms occurs through the expression of genetic information interacting with the environment.
d. Pathways and transformations of energy and matter: Biological systems grow and change by processes based upon chemical transformation pathways that are governed by the laws of thermodynamics.
e. Systems: Living systems are interconnected and interacting with each other and the abiotic environment.
2. Students will apply the process of science, including using the primary literature, designing experiments, making observations, developing problem-solving strategies, and using models.
3. Students will communicate scientific ideas orally and in writing.
4. Students will use quantitative reasoning, including developing and interpreting graphs, applying statistical methods to data, and using mathematical models.
5. Students will understand the relationship between science and society. This includes understanding the ethics of research and publishing, considering the ethical implications of biological research, and understanding the social and biological contexts of problems.