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Mr. Ulmer's Science Web Site
BioMedical TechnologyMicrobiologyCollege Prep ChemistryCollege Prep BiologyPlease use the link below to go to the class Google Sites for the most updated information:BioMedical Technology
( John James Audubon's painting of an Osprey, 1829 )
We actually saw this scene on the Tulpehocken Creek, during a Field Study with students.It was incredible! We also saw racoons, beavers, Blue Herons, trout, and many other North American animals and plants while studying the Tulpehocken ecosystem.
Lab Assistant, Morgan Shires , constructed a robot arm and is exploring uses for it in biology labs. Robots are now found in current biomedical research labs.
Gel Elctrophoresis
PCR MegaCycler for BioMedical Tech class Microcentrifuge
I visited a reasearch lab in Boston that had nine robots which are used for biological research involving DNA and proteins.
Mr. Ulmer Kayak fishing in Maine, and Hiking the Maine section of the Appalacian Trail.
Supplies Recommended : A 1/2 inch binder with 25 pages of lined paper ( used as a notebook) #2 pencils, Blue or Black pens. A simple calculator, a folder for hand-outs.
Class Syllabus:
Education is a continuous and life-long process. Education is changing in response to the continual changes in society, particularly in job requirements. The goals and methods of instruction are being revised nationally to reflect the needs of the Twenty-first Century. Our goal is to prepare students for the next ten, twenty, and later years of their lives. With this perspective, consider the following goals :
The use of technology, the development of communication skills, the ability to gather and organize information, and the development of social skills in groups; these are the job skills of the present and future.
We will cover the concepts of science in depth. There will be less of an emphasis on memorizing facts, though this remains a key part of understanding biology. The goal is for the students to analyze, create, and evaluate scientific information. These are higher level thinking skills.
To achieve these goals a variety of instructional methods will be used. Laboratory activities are an essential part of instruction. Also, students should be active learners in class.Labs and Activities :Young scientists need to experience science in an active, hands-on way. Laboratory investigations compliment and enhance the classroom activities. Following the lab procedure is an important part of the learning process, but analysis of data and the synthesis of ideas are most important. This happens on the lab report, and on the tests. Also, computer assisted instruction will be used as much as possible. The students will be introduced to a variety of web-based resources in this course. We have 30 laptop computers to use in class.
Tests and Alternative Assessments :
Tests are only one part of assessing a student’s achievement. Please note that the school policy requires that test represent 70% of the quarter grade for CP Biology, 80% for Honors. Students will generate portfolios, journals, laboratory reports, research projects, role-playing activities, and homework questions. Outside readings will be assigned frequently. These will be newspaper or magazine articles, as well as Web assignments. It is crucial that students read their assignments. Cornell Notes will be used as reading guides and later as study guides.
Group Work :
Science has become a collaborative field. TEAMS of scientists work together to discover new things. The students will work in cooperative groups on some projects. Individuals are always responsible for their part of the work.
I am available after school on most Wednesdays for Re-tests, make-up labs, and tutoring.Discipline Policy :All students are expected to be familiar with the rules of the school.
A classroom record of behavior is kept. I will usually give many warnings before a detention is given.The "Rules for Success" have been made after years of classroom experience. As the name implies, following these simple rules will help students to succeed. Rules for SuccessThe use of electronic devices ( cell phones, iPods, etc.) is restricted during class time. Students should not be using these devices once they enter the room. We will occassionally use them to photograph a lab result or to look up information, otherwise they should not be used . Students have been distracted by the use of texting, Twitter, and other uses. We have thirty laptop computers to use as resources in class.Misbehavior in the laboratory is dangerous, and is not acceptable. Detentions will be assigned.Communication :If a question or problem arises, please contact Mr. Ulmer first.Students should talk to Mr. Ulmer about any problem, prior to a parent calling. Please call my school voicemail number at : 610-670-0180 ext. 4490 Leave a message with your name,the name of the student, and the reason for the call. I receive many calls from supply companies, publishers, etc. Please record that you are a parent. Please be aware that these messages are not received immediately. Email is a faster method of contact. I can be reached by e-mail at
