Course Syllabus – Honors Molecular Genetics - Valencia High School

Mr. Klinger
e-mail: gklinger@hartdistrict.org Web: www.mrklinger.com Grades: www.jupitergrades.com
Phone: 294-1188 x208

Course Description

Molecular Genetics is a one semester elective laboratory course for high ability 11-12 grade students who have
completed general biology and general chemistry with a ‘B’ or better. This is a college level course using college
text books. It is designed to meet the needs of students who may be thinking about careers in the bio-medical fields
or for students unsure of their future career choices who enjoy the challenges of the biological sciences. It is for
students who show creative ability, independent thinking, and feel ‘at home’ in the laboratory. The students time is
devoted to reading, lectures, and laboratory sessions and one independent project.

Units of Study

• Mendelian Genetics and Chromosomal Inheritance.

• Molecular Basis of Inheritance
DNA as Genetic Material
DNA Replication and Repair
• Gene Expression and Protein Synthesis
Central Dogma
Transcription
Translation
Organization and Control of Genomes
Epigenetics
• DNA technology and Genetic Engineering

Class Grades

Molecular Genetics is accepted by the UC and similar universities for the science requirement. Current class grades
are posted and updated on www.jupitergrades.com. The Campus Portal is only used to post progress report and
report card grades. A Jupitergrades.com login will be provided for you during the first week of the semester;
please speak with me if you are having issues accessing your grade.

Work Assignments

Students are expected to take notes; participate in class discussions; comply with the reading assignments and
sometimes come in and work in the lab or on the computer before, during and after school. We have an Internet
connected computer stations in the lab as well as a dedicated computer lab in the center of the building.

Grading and Testing

Grades are determined on a weighted scale as follows:

Homework 10%
Tests and Quizzes 40%
Labs 30%
Final Exam 20%

As this is a lab based class, students are assessed in both traditional written forms as well as in their ability to
perform laboratory skills. Lab practicums are implemented to ensure that students are learning proper skills to
successfully complete the lab experiments. The final exam is a comprehensive final that covers all labs performed
through the semester.

I look forward to working with you this year!