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Instructors have provided the following information to generally describe what to expect in their classes.


Biology

Class Format

I teach BIOL 230 and BIOL 231.  I prefer my lectures to be an open discussion, and because of that I recommend students read the required texts and papers so they can participate in the discussion.  I lecture from a mixture of information on PowerPoint and writing on the white board.  Quizzes are given in between exams to keep students up to date on lecture material, as well as to assess any concepts that are not well understood.  Exams and quizzes are primarily multiple choice, but may include short answer and matching.  Laboratory sessions include a short lecture, demonstration of relevant new techniques, and then students performing the lab.  Lab reports will be required and will be based on techniques learned.  Lab exams may include a practical portion along with multiple choice.

Resource Use

Textbooks will be the primary source of information in the class.  However, any extra information covered in lecture, such as relevant journal articles and current events should be considered testable material.

Assessment

A minimum of 4 exams will be given throughout the semester, including a cumulative final exam at the end of the semester.  Typically 2 quizzes will be given prior to each exam, which will be given at the beginning of class.  Answers will be discussed in class immediately following the quiz.  If tardiness results in a missed quiz, there will not be a make-up quiz and it will be recorded as a missed quiz. The top 5 quizzes will go toward the final grade.  Exams and quizzes are primarily multiple choice, but may include short answer, matching and practical examination of laboratory technique.  The laboratory portion will also have lab reports and attendance/participation points that go toward the final grade.  

Homework Policy

Any homework and all lab reports will be due the following lab session.  Because you will have several days to complete these assignments, no late work is allowed.  

Attendance Policy

Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each lecture and lab.  While it is not considered part of your final grade in lecture, it is in the lab.  With excused absences, there will be an opportunity to make up any work done that day.  In the case of unexcused absences, it is unlikely that any work will be able to be made up.  For any lecture information missed due to absence, it is the student's responsibility to cover that information on their own based on the syllabus outline.  I am willing to go over concepts not well understood at the beginning of class, but we will not be covering previous lectures in their entirety.  

Availability

The best way to reach me is by email.  If you need to talk in person, I will be glad to meet with you in my office by scheduled appointments only.