Biology: The Living Environment Biology is the science of life. Students will use mathematical analysis, scientific inquiry and engineering design as appropriate to pose questions, seek answers and develop solutions. Students will understand and apply scientific concepts, principles and theories pertaining to the physical setting and living environment. Topics covered include ecology, human impact on the environment, biochemistry, similarities and differences among living things, maintaining a dynamic equilibrium, reproduction and development, genetics, evolution and human body systems.
Critical to understanding science concepts is the use of scientific inquiry to develop explanations of natural phenomena. Therefore, as a prerequisite for admission to the Regents examination in the Living Environment, students must have successfully completed 1200 minutes of laboratory experience with satisfactory written reports for each laboratory investigation. The final exam for this course is the Living Environment Regents exam.