From the tiny microbes inhabiting your gut to the vast ecosystems of our planet, biology reveals the fundamental processes of life. Using evolution as a unifying theme, you will see how the molecules of life are assembled into cells, organ systems, and organisms, and we will see how all these systems interact. Using original sources and scientific papers, we will debate whether or not viruses are alive. We will trace the evolution of several different animal species through a long-term dissection project in the lab, and then present our findings to one another, learning how different organisms confront the challenges of maintaining homeostasis. We will delve into the science of genetics and investigate how our genetic code creates the proteins that make up our bodies. Laboratories, dissections, and class activities will help bring the study of biology to life. This advanced class moves at a faster pace, and material is covered in greater depth.