biology notes

Course Structure and Assessment

• Importance of Concepts: Understanding that assessments need to connect to larger themes such as systems, information flow, and overarching concepts from "Vision and Change."

• Concept Maps: Must include five key terms from the list provided, which emphasize clarity in terms and definitions.

Evaluation Criteria

• Grading for EOs (Essential Outcomes):

  • Exceeds Mastery (4): Mastery of content, with no need for further follow-up until the end of the semester.

  • Meets Mastery (3): Near mastery, with minor errors requiring attention.

  • Below Mastery (0-2): Lack of understanding, categorized as overall low performance without distinction among the specific scores.

• Importance of Passing Attempts:

  • Students have two attempts for AOs (Assessment Outcomes). The last opportunity occurs during the second exam. Failure to pass during AOs will result in a repercussion on final grades.

  • Strategic planning is essential to avoid bottlenecking progression in the curriculum, especially later in the semester.

Support Resources

• Discussion and Office Hours: Encouragement to utilize available resources to seek clarity on exams or definitions.

• Study Guides: Focus on primary literature and scholarly sources for assignments, emphasizing preparation for lab activities.

Library Resources

• Accessing Materials:

  • Use the SU library page to find biology resources. Students are encouraged to find articles to fulfill study guide and lab requirements.

  • Class-specific guides will assist in article sourcing specific to coursework.

Article and Figure Requirements

• AO3 Presentation: Selection of articles is crucial.

  • Required to include a graph with an accompanying figure legend.

  • Clarification: Tables do not count as figures, which is often a common misunderstanding.

• Group Coordination: Ensure alignment with peers on the subject of study to facilitate cohesive presentations.

Class Workshop Activities

• Practice Presentations: Groups will practice presenting their findings in class, reinforcing the application of learned content throughout the semester.

  • Reiteration of themes: The importance of relevant topics such as plants and invertebrate studies while discarding irrelevant topics for the group.