Syllabus

Course:            Ecology            2000380

Instructor:         Mr. Tuttle

Textbook:         Priceless florida Natural Ecosystems and Native Species

Room:              Portable 5

Time:                Block 1  (8:00-9:25)

Overview:         Ecology is the study of the relationships between organisms and their environment.  This course will introduce the student to a variety of ecosystems found throughout Florida.  In addition, students will visit natural ecosystems that are found in Flagler County, and study the complex relationships that exist between the biotic and abiotic components of these habitats.

Weeks 1-2:                  Natural ecosystems and native species.  Abiotic factors of habitat.

Weeks 3-5:                  Interior Uplands- high pine grasslands, flatwoods and interior scrub.

Weeks 6-9:                  Interior wetlands, marshes, flowing water swamps.

Weeks 10-13:              Interior waters- ponds blackwater and seepage streams, springs.

Weeks 14-15:              Costal uplands and wetlands- beach dune ecosystems, marshes.

Weeks 16-17:              Costal waters- estuarine waters and seafloors. reef communities.

Week 18:                     The past and future- the path to the present, next generations.

Classroom Guidelines:

1.         Follow directions the first time they are given.

2.         Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.

3.         Do not prevent others from learning.

4.         Use appropriate language.

5.         All Pathways Academy rules apply in class.

Classroom Procedures

1.         Enter class:  go to assigned seat and begin work immediately.

2.         Ask questions:  raise hand, wait to be called on.

3.         Sharpen pencil:  only one student out of their seat at a time.

4.         Finish work early:  follow sharpen pencil procedure to get reading material or                 other independent activity.

Service Learning

Service learning is an experimental tool being used throughout the state of Florida.  It involves the student using what they have learned in class to meet a need in the community.  During this course, the students will apply what they learn in class to educate the public about the importance of maintaining natural habitats.

Evaluation

Students will earn a minimum of 100 points daily.  All assignments, homework, and quizes are of equal value.  Unit exams will count for 200 points.  Both a midterm and final exam will be given.  They will be comprehensive and make up 20 percent of the final grade.  The instructor may elect to use a project in place of a final exam.  The following grade scale will be used:

A         100 - 90

B          89 -   80

C         79 -   70

D         69 -   60

F          59 and under