Brad Kinney teaches Biology 1, Pre-AP Biology and AP Biology. He is also the Head Girls' Basketball Coach, and the assistant girls' track coach.

Coach Kinney is entering his 18th year of teaching/coaching, and his 5th here at Comfort HS.

Coach Kinney is married. He and his wife, Veronica, have 3 children, Luke 10, Emma, 8, and Sarah 6.

If you need to contact Coach Kinney, you can call the HS and schedule a conference. His conference periods are 1st and 4th period. His telephone extension is 229 if you would rather contact him in this manner.

BIOLOGY
Credit: 1 Length: 36 wks
This course describes the fascinating diversity of all living things, and the identifying themes that bring order to this diversity. The Biology course includes the scientific processes of observation and analysis. Critical-thinking strategies are emphasized while exploring concepts related to cells and viruses, metabolism, genetics, living systems, taxonomy, and ecosystems. The student will conduct an individual research project as a requirement of the course.

BIOLOGY PRE-AP
Credit: 1 Length: 36 weeks
Biology is the study of living organisms, their origins, how they survive, reproduce, change over time, and interact with each other and their environment. It is designed to guide students in the investigation of all aspects of living organisms and prepare students for the Advanced Placement Biology course. The Pre-AP course places a higher priority on developing critical thinking skills by examining real world problems. Topics are examined in greater depth and include more advanced resource material in addition to the adopted text. Laboratory investigations are more sophisticated and play a more prominent role in the Pre-AP course. Students will also be expected to write formal lab reports over major labs. Students are also expected to pre-read information and be prepared for class. Quizzes will be given frequently to check for understanding and to make sure students are completing reading assignments.

BIOLOGY AP
Credit: 1 Grade: 11-12 Length: 36 wks
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2, Chemistry, and Biology
This course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory course for biology majors. The course covers three general areas in considerable depth: molecules and cells; genetics and evolution; organisms and populations. Biological chemistry is emphasized in the study of molecules, cells, energy transformations and physiology. This course serves as preparation for the AP Exam given each May. Extensive reading is required for this course. Labs are very involved, and require formal write ups on completion. Due to the volume of information covered, and the depth of study of topics, students must prepare outside of class to be successful in AP Biology. Class time is for asking questions, clarifying topics, and discussion of topics. Quizzes will be frequent and in depth to check for understanding and completion of reading assignments.

Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) is an exploration of natural phenomena related to physics and chemistry. Critical-thinking and scientific problem
solving skills are emphasized while exploring concepts related to the properties of matter, chemical reactions, forces, motion,
simple machines, heat, electricity, waves, sound and light. Integrated Physics and Chemistry includes at least 40% hands-on
laboratory/field investigations using appropriate scientific inquiries.