Tuesday, May 19
How are you all feeling about the exam yesterday? I realize you may be studying for another exam, but drop an email my way telling me how it went.
How are you all feeling about the exam yesterday? I realize you may be studying for another exam, but drop an email my way telling me how it went.
Monday, May 18
How did it go? Did you get to submit all your responses? Were there any problems?
How did it go? Did you get to submit all your responses? Were there any problems?
Monday, May 18
Today's the day. Relax. Focus. Trust yourself. You are going to do well!!!!!!!
Today's the day. Relax. Focus. Trust yourself. You are going to do well!!!!!!!
Thursday, May 14
Google Chat link is active in Google Classroom. It is possible I will be late to the room. Let's start the chat at 10:30.
Google Chat link is active in Google Classroom. It is possible I will be late to the room. Let's start the chat at 10:30.
Thursday, May 14
Google Chat from 10 - 11am. Enter via link in Google Classroom. Email with questions/problems. Keep preparing for the exam.
Google Chat from 10 - 11am. Enter via link in Google Classroom. Email with questions/problems. Keep preparing for the exam.
Tuesday, May 13 - Friday, May 15
Continue to prepare for AP Exams. Be good to yourself. Eat right. Get plenty of rest. Review content and practice test taking. Be certain you can take the AP exam by doing everything in the Testing Guide. Do your practice in the manner you are going to submit your answers on test day. Spend time with the content. At some point, you will have testing down. Spend time with the content.
Google Chat Thursday, 10 - 11 am. Stop by if you can. I would love to talk about whatever. I'll post the link on Google Classroom Thursday morning. If there is a conflict with an exam, shoot me an email or private Google Chat.
COVID update -
http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=e0067dbe8585a27ddbb900976af99f6d121f171e12bd930246c6663d05cd90c26bce95305421f9c35332f52115cb8c36fc5d16b124ad81dfd6334529137989b09f5154e255c6b60d652eb445b3042a2c
Continue to prepare for AP Exams. Be good to yourself. Eat right. Get plenty of rest. Review content and practice test taking. Be certain you can take the AP exam by doing everything in the Testing Guide. Do your practice in the manner you are going to submit your answers on test day. Spend time with the content. At some point, you will have testing down. Spend time with the content.
Google Chat Thursday, 10 - 11 am. Stop by if you can. I would love to talk about whatever. I'll post the link on Google Classroom Thursday morning. If there is a conflict with an exam, shoot me an email or private Google Chat.
COVID update -
http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=e0067dbe8585a27ddbb900976af99f6d121f171e12bd930246c6663d05cd90c26bce95305421f9c35332f52115cb8c36fc5d16b124ad81dfd6334529137989b09f5154e255c6b60d652eb445b3042a2c
Friday, May 8
Preparation shouldn't be predominantly taking of practice tests. Certainly that's good to do, but becoming more and more comfortable with the material is probably more important. Being good at content will smooth test taking on May 18. So will rehearsing the exam itself. If you haven't set up your AP test situation as the guide suggested, get on it. First week of AP exams next week. We're in the homestretch. Finish strong. Trust yourselves. You are going to do well.
Big Test Advice - Get a good night sleep the night before. Eat a good breakfast. Focus on the exam itself. Relax, go hard and trust yourself.
COVID update - http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=afbf6b4ead59935d7f07499d44251553b3545182bbbc207b70af4983d6a451bd33743e88e430fc80fea91a2dec56b8bd160fcfbf973bc5eb69abc2f7e133a2fc564d181c8689d723365fb485ee4f7796
Preparation shouldn't be predominantly taking of practice tests. Certainly that's good to do, but becoming more and more comfortable with the material is probably more important. Being good at content will smooth test taking on May 18. So will rehearsing the exam itself. If you haven't set up your AP test situation as the guide suggested, get on it. First week of AP exams next week. We're in the homestretch. Finish strong. Trust yourselves. You are going to do well.
Big Test Advice - Get a good night sleep the night before. Eat a good breakfast. Focus on the exam itself. Relax, go hard and trust yourself.
COVID update - http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=afbf6b4ead59935d7f07499d44251553b3545182bbbc207b70af4983d6a451bd33743e88e430fc80fea91a2dec56b8bd160fcfbf973bc5eb69abc2f7e133a2fc564d181c8689d723365fb485ee4f7796
Wednesday, May 6 through Friday, May 8. Continue to prepare for AP Exams. Make sure you are set up to take the exam. Do the suggested activities in the Testing Guide that AP sent out earlier. There's a link to the guide listed on Wednesday, April 29 below. There are support documents in links sent since 4/29. Be active. Finish strong. I'll set up a chat early next week.
Tuesday, May 5
The link for the chat is only active through Google, I think. Here it is but it's going to ask for a password or some other weirdness. Go to the Google Classroom and click the link on the Tuesday assignment.
https://chat.google.com/u/1/room/AAAA-j9ah6I
Links to AP updates
AP test day needs list/guide. https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/educators/taking-the-exams/what-students-need-on-exam-day?SFMC_cid=EM307020-&rid=47134750
AP Bio test resource document link -https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-biology-equations-and-formulas-sheet.pdf
Test day link, which describes what/when/how things are happening on test day -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHZ2zpqlZNE
COVID update - https://www.sciencenews.org/special-newsletter?utm_source=Coronavirus_Update&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=cvupdate05.05.20
The link for the chat is only active through Google, I think. Here it is but it's going to ask for a password or some other weirdness. Go to the Google Classroom and click the link on the Tuesday assignment.
https://chat.google.com/u/1/room/AAAA-j9ah6I
Links to AP updates
AP test day needs list/guide. https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/educators/taking-the-exams/what-students-need-on-exam-day?SFMC_cid=EM307020-&rid=47134750
AP Bio test resource document link -https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-biology-equations-and-formulas-sheet.pdf
Test day link, which describes what/when/how things are happening on test day -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHZ2zpqlZNE
COVID update - https://www.sciencenews.org/special-newsletter?utm_source=Coronavirus_Update&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=cvupdate05.05.20
Monday, May 4
Continue to prepare. Include colleagues, as much as you can. Email me with questions.
GOOGLE CHAT TOMORROW, Tuesday, May 5 10:00 am - optional but I'd like to chat with any/every-one.
Continue to prepare. Include colleagues, as much as you can. Email me with questions.
GOOGLE CHAT TOMORROW, Tuesday, May 5 10:00 am - optional but I'd like to chat with any/every-one.
Friday, May 1
Many of you have more than one exam. Of course, prepare for each of the exams. One thing that helped me was working very hard in preparation. When I was sure I'd done some good work, on test day it was easier to focus on the exam itself and kind of let it fly. It was easier to trust myself if I was sure I had done a lot. (Of course, even if you haven't prepared a lot, you need to relax and focus on the exam.) Then, get a good night's sleep the night before the exam. In the morning, eat a good breakfast (little sugar, a Pepsi and a Snickers are not what I'm talking about). Your AP Bio Exam is at 12:00 noon Monday, May 18. The AP testing schedule is like a college finals schedule. This kind of thing is going on with millions of young people around the world now. Take care of yourselves throughout the process. You can do this.
Officially, one more week for seniors, but with AP Exams delayed, your work is certainly not at an end next Friday..... Definitely bittersweet there. Glad for our time together and that you all are moving on to an exciting next phase, but I'll miss you. Juniors, I'll have another bit of time with you all, as much as this remote learning is time together. We'll chat about that time next week.
Please email with questions/conversation.
Google Chat next Tuesday, 10:00 am - 11:00 am.
Many of you have more than one exam. Of course, prepare for each of the exams. One thing that helped me was working very hard in preparation. When I was sure I'd done some good work, on test day it was easier to focus on the exam itself and kind of let it fly. It was easier to trust myself if I was sure I had done a lot. (Of course, even if you haven't prepared a lot, you need to relax and focus on the exam.) Then, get a good night's sleep the night before the exam. In the morning, eat a good breakfast (little sugar, a Pepsi and a Snickers are not what I'm talking about). Your AP Bio Exam is at 12:00 noon Monday, May 18. The AP testing schedule is like a college finals schedule. This kind of thing is going on with millions of young people around the world now. Take care of yourselves throughout the process. You can do this.
Officially, one more week for seniors, but with AP Exams delayed, your work is certainly not at an end next Friday..... Definitely bittersweet there. Glad for our time together and that you all are moving on to an exciting next phase, but I'll miss you. Juniors, I'll have another bit of time with you all, as much as this remote learning is time together. We'll chat about that time next week.
Please email with questions/conversation.
Google Chat next Tuesday, 10:00 am - 11:00 am.
Thursday, April 30
Use the link you get from me Thursday to go to the Google Chat at 10am. Not required but I'm lonely.
ANOTHER BIG LINK - this is the link to the CSH AP teacher generated document (from Ms. Snowden and Ms. Valerio) that should help you organize and understand the AP Testing Guide. Here's the link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1C3MFCRPFPUc2uRXY8kCIanfLFgEyTpaoasw55Z0a7AA/edit
I'm truly sorry that you all are having to do so much just to take the danged test. Usually, it's a little paperwork, then show up and take a written exam (MC and essay). Just like class. Regardless, you will do well. This exam is like 1/2 of every exam we took. You are ready if you prep.
Use the link you get from me Thursday to go to the Google Chat at 10am. Not required but I'm lonely.
ANOTHER BIG LINK - this is the link to the CSH AP teacher generated document (from Ms. Snowden and Ms. Valerio) that should help you organize and understand the AP Testing Guide. Here's the link - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1C3MFCRPFPUc2uRXY8kCIanfLFgEyTpaoasw55Z0a7AA/edit
I'm truly sorry that you all are having to do so much just to take the danged test. Usually, it's a little paperwork, then show up and take a written exam (MC and essay). Just like class. Regardless, you will do well. This exam is like 1/2 of every exam we took. You are ready if you prep.
Wednesday, April 29
HUGE LINK This link will take you to the AP Testing Guide - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-testing-guide-2020.pdf?SFMC_cid=EM305178-&rid=47134750
- be thorough in your examination of the guide. We'll talk more, but focus on the need to make sure AP has your information, the ETICKET, the exam demo, getting your materials, date of exam confirmation email, date of ETICKET emailing, the specifics of the test itself and the importance of submitting on time during the test. Like I said, we'll talk more. Take a look and let's chat. We could chat tomorrow during the GoogleChat or later.
Let's do a Google Chat tomorrow, Thursday, April 30 from 10 am - 11 am. Completely voluntary. We all can chat about whatever is going on. You chat to each other and chat to me. It would be nice to chat with some of you. I haven't chatted with many of you. If you are comfortable in your preparation, no chatter makes sense. I still want to chat with you if you are on top of things. Have I used 'chat' enough? Chatfield's Chat Happy Chatter Chatman. This is new to me. Here goes: Here's the link - https://chat.google.com/u/1/room/AAAA-j9ah6I
Also, keep preparing. I know you have other classes and obligations but work hard now to reap benefits later. Managing time in college is much like this.
HUGE LINK This link will take you to the AP Testing Guide - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-testing-guide-2020.pdf?SFMC_cid=EM305178-&rid=47134750
- be thorough in your examination of the guide. We'll talk more, but focus on the need to make sure AP has your information, the ETICKET, the exam demo, getting your materials, date of exam confirmation email, date of ETICKET emailing, the specifics of the test itself and the importance of submitting on time during the test. Like I said, we'll talk more. Take a look and let's chat. We could chat tomorrow during the GoogleChat or later.
Let's do a Google Chat tomorrow, Thursday, April 30 from 10 am - 11 am. Completely voluntary. We all can chat about whatever is going on. You chat to each other and chat to me. It would be nice to chat with some of you. I haven't chatted with many of you. If you are comfortable in your preparation, no chatter makes sense. I still want to chat with you if you are on top of things. Have I used 'chat' enough? Chatfield's Chat Happy Chatter Chatman. This is new to me. Here goes: Here's the link - https://chat.google.com/u/1/room/AAAA-j9ah6I
Also, keep preparing. I know you have other classes and obligations but work hard now to reap benefits later. Managing time in college is much like this.
Tuesday, April 28
This is a link to the 2019 free response questions - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap19-frq-biology.pdf?course=ap-biology
The link to scoring guidelines for the above - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap19-sg-biology.pdf?course=ap-biology
This is a whopper file with an immense course description, but at almost the very end are a couple of example FRQ's. Go to page 206 of this document to find the essay questions - https://apcentral-stg.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-biology-course-and-exam-description-0.pdf
This should be scoring guidelines for the essay questions from immediately above - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-biology-2019-ced-scoring-guidelines.pdf?course=ap-biology
I want to remind you all that our current situation, with you working your butt off preparing for the exam, is very similar to what would be happening if we weren't remote learning. The big differences are 1. You are not having me introduce new material then testing in class, as we would have been. This makes your AP Bio burden less. 2. You can't easily get together with like minded folks and chat about your learning. Chat is too superficial. Get together to challenge each other and be sure you know the material yourself. This makes your AP burden greater. I wouldn't have been directing your AP prep beyond suggesting timeframes and techniques. You actually have more time and more structure than my students would have usually gotten. Take advantage. You all have the opportunity, skill and brains to do well.
COVID UPDATE - http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=bf80b41bc6c21297c038a610e20c264275f9502f785d8206497aef4cec0dde4309db2f8c7acb1eed91087ea9f31327a1ba47ee5eb95b4905c7dcfd900c90f65bf34a173a34040a15c269a3403d41e634
This is a link to the 2019 free response questions - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap19-frq-biology.pdf?course=ap-biology
The link to scoring guidelines for the above - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap19-sg-biology.pdf?course=ap-biology
This is a whopper file with an immense course description, but at almost the very end are a couple of example FRQ's. Go to page 206 of this document to find the essay questions - https://apcentral-stg.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-biology-course-and-exam-description-0.pdf
This should be scoring guidelines for the essay questions from immediately above - https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-biology-2019-ced-scoring-guidelines.pdf?course=ap-biology
I want to remind you all that our current situation, with you working your butt off preparing for the exam, is very similar to what would be happening if we weren't remote learning. The big differences are 1. You are not having me introduce new material then testing in class, as we would have been. This makes your AP Bio burden less. 2. You can't easily get together with like minded folks and chat about your learning. Chat is too superficial. Get together to challenge each other and be sure you know the material yourself. This makes your AP burden greater. I wouldn't have been directing your AP prep beyond suggesting timeframes and techniques. You actually have more time and more structure than my students would have usually gotten. Take advantage. You all have the opportunity, skill and brains to do well.
COVID UPDATE - http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=bf80b41bc6c21297c038a610e20c264275f9502f785d8206497aef4cec0dde4309db2f8c7acb1eed91087ea9f31327a1ba47ee5eb95b4905c7dcfd900c90f65bf34a173a34040a15c269a3403d41e634
Friday, April 24
Did anybody give a listen to the lecture? Was it helpful?
Take a peek at this video from AP and college admissions officers - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIYgobKJbRQ&feature=youtu.be&SFMC_cid=EM303129-&rid=47134750
Covid update - http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=d7c2fb8106137359102c02f5a4e1c71cb66257756b4247c810322708804ef4c3cc7baee4d16095f9a940438e980c8b54eac309acf2a5f2b7f000e5bbb1b8498a386e684c863b6e1fe150898c032818c9
Did anybody give a listen to the lecture? Was it helpful?
Take a peek at this video from AP and college admissions officers - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIYgobKJbRQ&feature=youtu.be&SFMC_cid=EM303129-&rid=47134750
Covid update - http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=d7c2fb8106137359102c02f5a4e1c71cb66257756b4247c810322708804ef4c3cc7baee4d16095f9a940438e980c8b54eac309acf2a5f2b7f000e5bbb1b8498a386e684c863b6e1fe150898c032818c9
Thursday, April 23
Chapter 21 Lecture available in 3 parts. Part One is the first half of the chapter. Part Two is the second half, except I made a mistake on the recording and there is no sound for the last 20 minutes, necessitating a Part Three. In Part Two, when you get to the part where Mr. Powell appears, I lose sound after that. Pick the lecture up from there in Part Three. Sorry, but at least you get a real classroom experience from me today, warts and all. Email with questions. Study, communicate, evaluate, review, chat, quiz, etc. You are going to do well.
Chapter 21 Lecture available in 3 parts. Part One is the first half of the chapter. Part Two is the second half, except I made a mistake on the recording and there is no sound for the last 20 minutes, necessitating a Part Three. In Part Two, when you get to the part where Mr. Powell appears, I lose sound after that. Pick the lecture up from there in Part Three. Sorry, but at least you get a real classroom experience from me today, warts and all. Email with questions. Study, communicate, evaluate, review, chat, quiz, etc. You are going to do well.
Wednesday, April 22
If you are looking for visuals on Ch. 21, I found a few examples of the power point lecture slides from the 9th edition by doing a google search. I am definitely not assigning them as a couple of the sites don't screen comments, etc and are not district approved. The sites I went to had our content but the site itself allowed folks to advertise stuff. I have prepared something that should be recorded tomorrow.
I hope you all are doing well. Things are good here. We're safe and comfy. Still a while to go before we even get close to normal but I'm seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. Adhere to the restrictions and we should be good.
Email with questions, etc.
If you are looking for visuals on Ch. 21, I found a few examples of the power point lecture slides from the 9th edition by doing a google search. I am definitely not assigning them as a couple of the sites don't screen comments, etc and are not district approved. The sites I went to had our content but the site itself allowed folks to advertise stuff. I have prepared something that should be recorded tomorrow.
I hope you all are doing well. Things are good here. We're safe and comfy. Still a while to go before we even get close to normal but I'm seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. Adhere to the restrictions and we should be good.
Email with questions, etc.
Tuesday, April 21
AP is trying to connect with everybody. See the attached copy of part of an email from Ms. Weimer below:
They must contact College Board sooner rather than later to get their account fixed in regards to the email address. The phone number is 866-630-9305 if you want to post it on your classroom/website. Also, if students are no longer taking the exam, please have them contact me so I can adjust the order on the AP Ordering website. I will also issue the refund for the exam.
COVID UPDATE -
http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=a9dde368390714fad3776054f16f1c68a1e0292364c9e80109edd02d8f98e39221bc3497fb89d22fe0f60f6736c80c2b210a655d75068b7c67a098cd6b864ab93bfd059b1341c22b6ab97fa1a737b87a
AP is trying to connect with everybody. See the attached copy of part of an email from Ms. Weimer below:
They must contact College Board sooner rather than later to get their account fixed in regards to the email address. The phone number is 866-630-9305 if you want to post it on your classroom/website. Also, if students are no longer taking the exam, please have them contact me so I can adjust the order on the AP Ordering website. I will also issue the refund for the exam.
COVID UPDATE -
http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=a9dde368390714fad3776054f16f1c68a1e0292364c9e80109edd02d8f98e39221bc3497fb89d22fe0f60f6736c80c2b210a655d75068b7c67a098cd6b864ab93bfd059b1341c22b6ab97fa1a737b87a
Monday, April 20
Hi Gang. AP has added a series of review lectures to the student website that should be available to all. Topics are not limited to their Unit 7 and 8 material and should be nice accessories to your understanding of what we've covered and what will be on the test.
Not all of you have clicked that you are taking the exam on the AP site. Do that, if you have not. Below I've copied what they sent me.
Earlier last week, the AP program sent a survey email to students to inquire on their exam taking plans. This was an information-gathering email only and responses will not affect a student’s ability to receive/take the AP exam. While we do our best to reach as many students as possible, not all students open or respond to our emails. Over the coming weeks, email will continue to be a primary way we reach out to teachers and your students. Please encourage students to:
Hi Gang. AP has added a series of review lectures to the student website that should be available to all. Topics are not limited to their Unit 7 and 8 material and should be nice accessories to your understanding of what we've covered and what will be on the test.
Not all of you have clicked that you are taking the exam on the AP site. Do that, if you have not. Below I've copied what they sent me.
Earlier last week, the AP program sent a survey email to students to inquire on their exam taking plans. This was an information-gathering email only and responses will not affect a student’s ability to receive/take the AP exam. While we do our best to reach as many students as possible, not all students open or respond to our emails. Over the coming weeks, email will continue to be a primary way we reach out to teachers and your students. Please encourage students to:
- Check their email and ensure their correct email address is saved in their College Board account.
- Update their phone number and give us permission to text them in their College Board account.
- Mark [email protected] as part of their approved sender lists. Teachers and district leaders can also take this same action.
Friday, April 17
Covid transmission update - https://www.sciencenews.org/article/coronavirus-covid-19-infection-contagious-days-before-symptoms-appear?utm_source=Coronavirus_Update&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=cvupdate041720
Link to general corona update -http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=7ef1916ac47b70e5d4fa146ae8d79e3eaacffa29b499c164f42bedcbec8f34388c6cc807eaff12952e0e46586c7c21d5450ef7cabba6c16ad54a36dd6174a6c475bd66d2f0c5d3a06a39b7cfed57165a
Link to trustable corona information -https://www.sciencenews.org/editors-picks/2019-novel-coronavirus-outbreak
CH 21 Lecture a struggle for me logistically today. Look for it next week. In the meantime, there's plenty to do. Study, chat, prepare, facetime, practice, discuss, read, quiz each other, review, skype.
Covid transmission update - https://www.sciencenews.org/article/coronavirus-covid-19-infection-contagious-days-before-symptoms-appear?utm_source=Coronavirus_Update&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=cvupdate041720
Link to general corona update -http://view.societyforscience-email.com/?qs=7ef1916ac47b70e5d4fa146ae8d79e3eaacffa29b499c164f42bedcbec8f34388c6cc807eaff12952e0e46586c7c21d5450ef7cabba6c16ad54a36dd6174a6c475bd66d2f0c5d3a06a39b7cfed57165a
Link to trustable corona information -https://www.sciencenews.org/editors-picks/2019-novel-coronavirus-outbreak
CH 21 Lecture a struggle for me logistically today. Look for it next week. In the meantime, there's plenty to do. Study, chat, prepare, facetime, practice, discuss, read, quiz each other, review, skype.
Thursday, April 16
Plan to record a Chapter 21 lecture tomorrow. In the meantime, study, chat, prepare, facetime, practice, discuss, read, quiz each other, review.
Plan to record a Chapter 21 lecture tomorrow. In the meantime, study, chat, prepare, facetime, practice, discuss, read, quiz each other, review.
Wednesday, April 15
Hi gang! I've set up the attendance check in assignments in Google Classroom. Thank Ivan for the heads-up.
Was the Chapter 21 outline helpful at all? I'll post the lecture as soon as I get one that I'm not embarrassed about;-)
Email with questions, with things I can do to help, just to chat. Wish we could gather together.
Hi gang! I've set up the attendance check in assignments in Google Classroom. Thank Ivan for the heads-up.
Was the Chapter 21 outline helpful at all? I'll post the lecture as soon as I get one that I'm not embarrassed about;-)
Email with questions, with things I can do to help, just to chat. Wish we could gather together.
Monday, April 13
I've put my Chapter 21 outline on the documents page. I'm up for doing a lecture but without a live audience, it will be weird. Do you want to hear me chat about Ch. 21? Frankly, there is a bunch of information that we've already talked about. There is also new stuff, so it's worth reading and knowing. How is the review going?
Link to Current COVID information - Science News is an excellent source.
https://www.sciencenews.org/special-newsletter?utm_source=Coronavirus_Update&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=cvupdate041420
I've put my Chapter 21 outline on the documents page. I'm up for doing a lecture but without a live audience, it will be weird. Do you want to hear me chat about Ch. 21? Frankly, there is a bunch of information that we've already talked about. There is also new stuff, so it's worth reading and knowing. How is the review going?
Link to Current COVID information - Science News is an excellent source.
https://www.sciencenews.org/special-newsletter?utm_source=Coronavirus_Update&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=cvupdate041420
Thursday, April 9
The review I put together is available. It is from the 7th edition, rather than the 9th we were using. The articles we've read over biotech should address areas that have changed since the 7th ed., so we should be okay there. At the least, the review shows the general areas that will be covered and has short exams over various sections to check understanding. The multiple choice test is best used as a content understanding check since there's no MC on the exam this year. Obviously, focus on the essay questions. Remember that you are going to have 2 questions covering the general areas of 1. Interpret and Evaluate Experimental Results and 2. Concept Analysis. I've already emailed a couple of students a copy of the review (4 emails because files so big), if you can get copies from them directly, that's great. The review and practice exams are shareable. Email me if you need a copy.
This year especially, I strongly suggest that study groups will be helpful. Communicate with people about content. Obviously, you can't physically meet, but call, Zoom, Skype, telegraph, smoke signals, whatever. Speak to each other. Be focused on material. Have a structure to your review. I'd suggest using the units on the AP Classroom to break things down.
BIG DEAL - I just today remembered that we skipped Chapter 21, as we always do. It could be on the exam. We will cover it. Let me put together something that will be helpful for you all. I anticipate a lecture like we usually do, I'll record it, make it available on the website, you'll read the chapter, study the lecture, understand the material and kill that part of a question if it's there. It should be available sometime mid-next week. The good news is that the test is a week later than expected so we have time to cover the chapter and this is also really interesting information. Stay tuned.
IN the meantime, continue to review the material and access the quizzes, especially essay questions, to evaluate your understanding.
The review I put together is available. It is from the 7th edition, rather than the 9th we were using. The articles we've read over biotech should address areas that have changed since the 7th ed., so we should be okay there. At the least, the review shows the general areas that will be covered and has short exams over various sections to check understanding. The multiple choice test is best used as a content understanding check since there's no MC on the exam this year. Obviously, focus on the essay questions. Remember that you are going to have 2 questions covering the general areas of 1. Interpret and Evaluate Experimental Results and 2. Concept Analysis. I've already emailed a couple of students a copy of the review (4 emails because files so big), if you can get copies from them directly, that's great. The review and practice exams are shareable. Email me if you need a copy.
This year especially, I strongly suggest that study groups will be helpful. Communicate with people about content. Obviously, you can't physically meet, but call, Zoom, Skype, telegraph, smoke signals, whatever. Speak to each other. Be focused on material. Have a structure to your review. I'd suggest using the units on the AP Classroom to break things down.
BIG DEAL - I just today remembered that we skipped Chapter 21, as we always do. It could be on the exam. We will cover it. Let me put together something that will be helpful for you all. I anticipate a lecture like we usually do, I'll record it, make it available on the website, you'll read the chapter, study the lecture, understand the material and kill that part of a question if it's there. It should be available sometime mid-next week. The good news is that the test is a week later than expected so we have time to cover the chapter and this is also really interesting information. Stay tuned.
IN the meantime, continue to review the material and access the quizzes, especially essay questions, to evaluate your understanding.
Tuesday, April 7
How is the review going? Any opinions on the Ch 24 Exam? I'm going to go with an optional situation because NOBODY expressed an opinion. If you want to take the Ch 24 Exam, email me.
Because I've not heard from anybody regarding content, planning, current affairs, etc, I'm a little worried. Are you getting things done? Did you get my information regarding changes to the AP Exam? Has AP contacted you? Are the practice exams available on the AP Classroom site? Are the exams helpful? Is the link to earlier released essay questions (FRQs) live and helpful? Do I need to open up access to anything else on the AP classroom? Does anybody want a copy of my study guide? Again, I don't think you need much hand holding and probably are doing just fine now. What we'd be doing in class from here on out was a dissection of the digestive, urogenital and circulatory systems of rats and a cat. Essentially a one month lab, with lecture about once per week. Limited reading for the class. This decrease in my class' content expectations would be counteracted by the increase in out-of-class time I expect you to be studying for the exam. We're missing the lab experience but you will get a very similar experience to my classes through the years at this point regarding test prep. You need to do what it takes to be as prepared as possible to kick serous bootay on the AP Bio Exam. Please email or contact through Google Classroom with communications.
My family is doing well. I expect you and yours are hunkering down comfortably.
How is the review going? Any opinions on the Ch 24 Exam? I'm going to go with an optional situation because NOBODY expressed an opinion. If you want to take the Ch 24 Exam, email me.
Because I've not heard from anybody regarding content, planning, current affairs, etc, I'm a little worried. Are you getting things done? Did you get my information regarding changes to the AP Exam? Has AP contacted you? Are the practice exams available on the AP Classroom site? Are the exams helpful? Is the link to earlier released essay questions (FRQs) live and helpful? Do I need to open up access to anything else on the AP classroom? Does anybody want a copy of my study guide? Again, I don't think you need much hand holding and probably are doing just fine now. What we'd be doing in class from here on out was a dissection of the digestive, urogenital and circulatory systems of rats and a cat. Essentially a one month lab, with lecture about once per week. Limited reading for the class. This decrease in my class' content expectations would be counteracted by the increase in out-of-class time I expect you to be studying for the exam. We're missing the lab experience but you will get a very similar experience to my classes through the years at this point regarding test prep. You need to do what it takes to be as prepared as possible to kick serous bootay on the AP Bio Exam. Please email or contact through Google Classroom with communications.
My family is doing well. I expect you and yours are hunkering down comfortably.
Friday, April 3
New today from AP regarding the exam. My summary follows.:
Test Date is Monday, May 18 AT 12:00 Mountain Time
- they say to log in 30 minutes early to get situated. Not a suggestion. Do it.
- 45 minutes
- 2 Free Response Questions - Essays to us grayhairs - no multiple choice
- OPEN NOTE
- same 1 - 5 scoring system
- scores will be released as close to mid-July as possible
- AP is 'confident the vast majority of college will award credit as usual' - President of Yale assured the president of AP personally that Yale would
- for the first time, teachers will get copies of the responses - May 26
- security will be tight
- there is a whole security protocol when signing in on test day
- AP isn't divulging an implied massive set of sneaky online tools they will be using to catch cheaters
- AP is divulging that when they catch someone cheating, they will inform every college that student sent PSAT, SAT, ACT, CLEP AND AP exam scores to.
- the nature of the exam, 2 essay questions, 45 minutes, means that people can't spend much time collaborating
- most of you all are serious about this and honorable. They are counting on that.
- they pointed out the review lectures - Has anybody looked at them? You all have been awful quiet.
- test itself- 2 FRQs - 1. Interpret and Evaluate Experimental Results
2. Concept Analysis
- it is my understanding that you will be contacted with exam registration procedures
- I have my review picked out. It will be helpful but maybe not necessary for two reasons. 1. The test is entirely over material we've already nailed in class, If you are getting good review experiences with the unit review exams, and/or your study guide and/or your own AP prep manual and/or your text, you might not need it. 2. The content review I have is from the 7th edition. We used the 9th. I do want to make my review available if anybody is interested. Please email me. I haven't scanned it in yet but I will send you a copy in your email or make it available on my website if there's interest.
- On the AP unit review practice exams (whatever they call them), obviously concentrate on the FRQ's they give. The multiple choice is good to identify content areas of weakness and strength but you won't be tested on the AP exam in that manner.
- Is the link to the released FRQs live? Use that for more essay practice.
- Is everything okay? I haven't heard from most of you. You're checking in attendance but we haven't communicated.I'm not much of a hand holder so if you are moving along nicely in your review, you're okay.
- REMINDER: Experience tells me that studying for the exam raises scores a solid point. An example from earlier goes: My top student one year was, as usual, an incredible student and intellect (and person, not coincidentally). Got like a 95% in the class and I wasn't the kind grader I am today. She got a 3 on the exam. She came back and reported that she had studied for her other exams and didn't prepare for this one. She should have earned a 5.
- I recommend that you all take the exam. With study, you will all do well. You have time to study. (I'm not introducing new material and the test is one week later than originally scheduled). We've covered this material. I tested the bejeebers out of you guys. Difficult exams regarding both content and pacing. Essay scores represent half of your grade. It's already paid for. If for some reason you don't, you will still get the refund. But take it. You really have nothing to lose.
COVID keeps expanding. The reason I've mentioned airborne transmission is that would be a mechanism for asymptomatic transmission and makes the virus way more contagious. They are saying that they strongly suspect asymptomatic transmission but it doesn't necessarily mean airborne where the virus remains in the air for a while after release, as opposed to the visible or microscopic respiratory droplets which settle quickly out of the air onto surfaces.
- I expect you and your loved ones are hunkering down comfortably. My family is, A little cabin-fever like feeling but mostly good. Back in touch when I learn more.
New today from AP regarding the exam. My summary follows.:
Test Date is Monday, May 18 AT 12:00 Mountain Time
- they say to log in 30 minutes early to get situated. Not a suggestion. Do it.
- 45 minutes
- 2 Free Response Questions - Essays to us grayhairs - no multiple choice
- OPEN NOTE
- same 1 - 5 scoring system
- scores will be released as close to mid-July as possible
- AP is 'confident the vast majority of college will award credit as usual' - President of Yale assured the president of AP personally that Yale would
- for the first time, teachers will get copies of the responses - May 26
- security will be tight
- there is a whole security protocol when signing in on test day
- AP isn't divulging an implied massive set of sneaky online tools they will be using to catch cheaters
- AP is divulging that when they catch someone cheating, they will inform every college that student sent PSAT, SAT, ACT, CLEP AND AP exam scores to.
- the nature of the exam, 2 essay questions, 45 minutes, means that people can't spend much time collaborating
- most of you all are serious about this and honorable. They are counting on that.
- they pointed out the review lectures - Has anybody looked at them? You all have been awful quiet.
- test itself- 2 FRQs - 1. Interpret and Evaluate Experimental Results
2. Concept Analysis
- it is my understanding that you will be contacted with exam registration procedures
- I have my review picked out. It will be helpful but maybe not necessary for two reasons. 1. The test is entirely over material we've already nailed in class, If you are getting good review experiences with the unit review exams, and/or your study guide and/or your own AP prep manual and/or your text, you might not need it. 2. The content review I have is from the 7th edition. We used the 9th. I do want to make my review available if anybody is interested. Please email me. I haven't scanned it in yet but I will send you a copy in your email or make it available on my website if there's interest.
- On the AP unit review practice exams (whatever they call them), obviously concentrate on the FRQ's they give. The multiple choice is good to identify content areas of weakness and strength but you won't be tested on the AP exam in that manner.
- Is the link to the released FRQs live? Use that for more essay practice.
- Is everything okay? I haven't heard from most of you. You're checking in attendance but we haven't communicated.I'm not much of a hand holder so if you are moving along nicely in your review, you're okay.
- REMINDER: Experience tells me that studying for the exam raises scores a solid point. An example from earlier goes: My top student one year was, as usual, an incredible student and intellect (and person, not coincidentally). Got like a 95% in the class and I wasn't the kind grader I am today. She got a 3 on the exam. She came back and reported that she had studied for her other exams and didn't prepare for this one. She should have earned a 5.
- I recommend that you all take the exam. With study, you will all do well. You have time to study. (I'm not introducing new material and the test is one week later than originally scheduled). We've covered this material. I tested the bejeebers out of you guys. Difficult exams regarding both content and pacing. Essay scores represent half of your grade. It's already paid for. If for some reason you don't, you will still get the refund. But take it. You really have nothing to lose.
COVID keeps expanding. The reason I've mentioned airborne transmission is that would be a mechanism for asymptomatic transmission and makes the virus way more contagious. They are saying that they strongly suspect asymptomatic transmission but it doesn't necessarily mean airborne where the virus remains in the air for a while after release, as opposed to the visible or microscopic respiratory droplets which settle quickly out of the air onto surfaces.
- I expect you and your loved ones are hunkering down comfortably. My family is, A little cabin-fever like feeling but mostly good. Back in touch when I learn more.
- Thursday, April 2
- Let's start looking at the exam. First, in our classroom in the AP website, I think I have 'assigned' progress tests for the units you will be tested over on the exam (their Units 1 - 6). I picture using them as kind of pretests to see what you are ready for now and what you need to study. Then you would review the general areas of need (avoid focusing on the exact content of the question. A miss of a question may mean lack of understanding of a general topic, not necessarily the specific information the question covers.). Then go back and take the thing again after you've addressed weak areas. Please tell me if it isn't set up. I hate to keep blaming it on old age. I like being my age. I don't like being slow on the tech uptake, though. This could be a valuable tool so let's make it work.
- Also, this link to old released essay questions will give you some concrete practice. It includes questions, sample answers and scoring guidelines. Pretty functional, I expect. It should work for you as it says apstudents. Tell me if the link isn't live or is unusable for whatever reason. Use the most recent years first. The essay section has changed over the years.
-https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-biology/free-response-questions-by-year
- I have to figure out the new procedure to use the school. It's unclear what I need to do to use it safely and under the rules. I need to scan a boatload of stuff for the review I have, more than my simple system here at home could easily do. Give me time to get that done. Should be available by the weekend or early next week. It has general and AP specific test taking hints, content summaries and quizzes over content.
Current COVID stuff I consider new info:
- this virus lives on surfaces up to 7 days on smooth surfaces (stainless steel, plastic) 4 days on glass, paper money, 2 days on rough surfaces (cloth, wood,. ), < 12 hours on printer paper, crepe paper (crepe paper?)
- high temps do it in (>70 C, which is about 160 F)
- I copied this (Science News, 4/02/20) regarding how to view gatherings and transmissiblity:
- The model in the new study, which hasn’t yet been peer-reviewed, represents gatherings as highly connected cliques, in which all people present are exposed to all the others. Hébert-Dufresne, who worked with colleagues from Université Laval in Quebec, compares an epidemic in such a network to a bonfire. You need two things to build a fire: kindling, which gets the first flame started, and larger branches, which transmit the fire from place to place. In Hébert-Dufresne’s model, small gatherings form the kindling, and large gatherings are the branches. To keep the fire from spreading, you don’t need to remove the kindling — only the branches.
- The question is how many people constitute kindling (small group size limit) and how many people are large groups made up of.
The below aren't new but deal with transmission of COVID19
- An old link (3/17) to nonsymptomatic spread in China -https://www.sciencenews.org/article/coronavirus-infected-people-mild-cases-symptoms-stealth-spread-china
- an older link (3/12) to timing of 'contagiousness' - https://www.sciencenews.org/article/coronavirus-most-contagious-before-during-first-week-symptoms
- Still thinking about the Ch. 24 Exam. I'm leaning toward an optional exam. Take it if you need to raise your grade (are within 4% of higher grade) , don't take it if you are okay with where you currently are. Only a thought now. What are you all thinking?
- Let's start looking at the exam. First, in our classroom in the AP website, I think I have 'assigned' progress tests for the units you will be tested over on the exam (their Units 1 - 6). I picture using them as kind of pretests to see what you are ready for now and what you need to study. Then you would review the general areas of need (avoid focusing on the exact content of the question. A miss of a question may mean lack of understanding of a general topic, not necessarily the specific information the question covers.). Then go back and take the thing again after you've addressed weak areas. Please tell me if it isn't set up. I hate to keep blaming it on old age. I like being my age. I don't like being slow on the tech uptake, though. This could be a valuable tool so let's make it work.
- Also, this link to old released essay questions will give you some concrete practice. It includes questions, sample answers and scoring guidelines. Pretty functional, I expect. It should work for you as it says apstudents. Tell me if the link isn't live or is unusable for whatever reason. Use the most recent years first. The essay section has changed over the years.
-https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-biology/free-response-questions-by-year
- I have to figure out the new procedure to use the school. It's unclear what I need to do to use it safely and under the rules. I need to scan a boatload of stuff for the review I have, more than my simple system here at home could easily do. Give me time to get that done. Should be available by the weekend or early next week. It has general and AP specific test taking hints, content summaries and quizzes over content.
Current COVID stuff I consider new info:
- this virus lives on surfaces up to 7 days on smooth surfaces (stainless steel, plastic) 4 days on glass, paper money, 2 days on rough surfaces (cloth, wood,. ), < 12 hours on printer paper, crepe paper (crepe paper?)
- high temps do it in (>70 C, which is about 160 F)
- I copied this (Science News, 4/02/20) regarding how to view gatherings and transmissiblity:
- The model in the new study, which hasn’t yet been peer-reviewed, represents gatherings as highly connected cliques, in which all people present are exposed to all the others. Hébert-Dufresne, who worked with colleagues from Université Laval in Quebec, compares an epidemic in such a network to a bonfire. You need two things to build a fire: kindling, which gets the first flame started, and larger branches, which transmit the fire from place to place. In Hébert-Dufresne’s model, small gatherings form the kindling, and large gatherings are the branches. To keep the fire from spreading, you don’t need to remove the kindling — only the branches.
- The question is how many people constitute kindling (small group size limit) and how many people are large groups made up of.
The below aren't new but deal with transmission of COVID19
- An old link (3/17) to nonsymptomatic spread in China -https://www.sciencenews.org/article/coronavirus-infected-people-mild-cases-symptoms-stealth-spread-china
- an older link (3/12) to timing of 'contagiousness' - https://www.sciencenews.org/article/coronavirus-most-contagious-before-during-first-week-symptoms
- Still thinking about the Ch. 24 Exam. I'm leaning toward an optional exam. Take it if you need to raise your grade (are within 4% of higher grade) , don't take it if you are okay with where you currently are. Only a thought now. What are you all thinking?
Wednesday, 4/1
No new assignment. I did get a hint that airborne transmission is suspected as the Director of NIH said something about nonsymptomatic transmission occurring. This may mean it is transmissible via methods beyond contact with respiratory fluids. I'll keep checking.
No new assignment. I did get a hint that airborne transmission is suspected as the Director of NIH said something about nonsymptomatic transmission occurring. This may mean it is transmissible via methods beyond contact with respiratory fluids. I'll keep checking.
Tuesday, 3/31
I just entered the Chapter 22 and 23 test scores. I curved it a bit but am happy with the scores after the curve. With the time issue, I don't feel too bad about curving it. I will say, though, that this is the first group I've had with so many people struggling to finish during the allotted time. It's less of an issue now, but these tests (my class, AP Exams, college exams) will all be timed.
As I was entering scores, it occurred to me that you all have prepared for a Chapter 24 Exam and I cavalierly said we weren't testing over it. While Natural Selection won't be on the modified AP Bio exam, it is important, it was supposed to be the last chapter exam of the semester, and you all have it prepared for an examination. Give me a day or two to figure procedure.
Right now, your assignment in AP Bio is to stay up with COVID19 information and spread the truth. Crazy thing I just saw, we currently have more COVID mortalities than China did at the same point in their epidemic. Good source - https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/03/21/upshot/coronavirus-deaths-by-country.html?campaign_id=9&emc=edit_NN_p_20200331&instance_id=17204&nl=morning-briefing®i_id=121394746§ion=topNews&segment_id=23382&te=1&user_id=775e6249c9fdb9cd713971fba176d6af
- note the exponential vertical axis
-would love to chat about what you are reading. On this article, China's openess when the virus first showed up could skew their numbers. X axis is days since 25th death. If the Chinese didn't report the early deaths, it changes the shape of their curve. Anyhoo. A good read.
This is from the College Board (the AP people)
As schools and communities navigate the unprecedented challenges posed by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the health and safety of educators and students are the AP Program’s top priorities. Here’s how we’re supporting schools:
So it is a 45 minute exam.
The remote learning mentioned is recorded lectures over pretty specific stuff that they think we haven't covered yet. In this case, they are all over evolution/natural selection. The lectures are another person's take on material we've already talked about. It's review and it could help when we do whatever we do regarding Chapter 24. Also, note the two different test date possibilities. I'm still working on the review for the exam. When I find more information about your AP Bio exam, I'll pass it along in this forum.
Hit Google Classroom and the mark as done icon for attendance.
Things are comfortable here. My wife and extended family are all healthy. Bored maybe but healthy. I'm trying to enjoy the differences between now and normal times. Found one right away. I don't have to wake up when it's dark. Looking for the silver linings. Take care of yourselves!
If you are really Jonesing for some AP Exam prep, start the review process by rereading early first semester chapters/chapter summaries.
I just entered the Chapter 22 and 23 test scores. I curved it a bit but am happy with the scores after the curve. With the time issue, I don't feel too bad about curving it. I will say, though, that this is the first group I've had with so many people struggling to finish during the allotted time. It's less of an issue now, but these tests (my class, AP Exams, college exams) will all be timed.
As I was entering scores, it occurred to me that you all have prepared for a Chapter 24 Exam and I cavalierly said we weren't testing over it. While Natural Selection won't be on the modified AP Bio exam, it is important, it was supposed to be the last chapter exam of the semester, and you all have it prepared for an examination. Give me a day or two to figure procedure.
Right now, your assignment in AP Bio is to stay up with COVID19 information and spread the truth. Crazy thing I just saw, we currently have more COVID mortalities than China did at the same point in their epidemic. Good source - https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/03/21/upshot/coronavirus-deaths-by-country.html?campaign_id=9&emc=edit_NN_p_20200331&instance_id=17204&nl=morning-briefing®i_id=121394746§ion=topNews&segment_id=23382&te=1&user_id=775e6249c9fdb9cd713971fba176d6af
- note the exponential vertical axis
-would love to chat about what you are reading. On this article, China's openess when the virus first showed up could skew their numbers. X axis is days since 25th death. If the Chinese didn't report the early deaths, it changes the shape of their curve. Anyhoo. A good read.
This is from the College Board (the AP people)
As schools and communities navigate the unprecedented challenges posed by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the health and safety of educators and students are the AP Program’s top priorities. Here’s how we’re supporting schools:
- We’re providing free remote learning resources.
- We’re investing in the development of a new at-home testing option.
- Traditional face-to-face exam administrations will not take place. Students will take a 45-minute online free-response exam at home.
- Some students may want to take the exam sooner rather than later, while the content is still fresh. Other students may want more time to practice. For each AP subject, there will be 2 different testing dates.
So it is a 45 minute exam.
The remote learning mentioned is recorded lectures over pretty specific stuff that they think we haven't covered yet. In this case, they are all over evolution/natural selection. The lectures are another person's take on material we've already talked about. It's review and it could help when we do whatever we do regarding Chapter 24. Also, note the two different test date possibilities. I'm still working on the review for the exam. When I find more information about your AP Bio exam, I'll pass it along in this forum.
Hit Google Classroom and the mark as done icon for attendance.
Things are comfortable here. My wife and extended family are all healthy. Bored maybe but healthy. I'm trying to enjoy the differences between now and normal times. Found one right away. I don't have to wake up when it's dark. Looking for the silver linings. Take care of yourselves!
If you are really Jonesing for some AP Exam prep, start the review process by rereading early first semester chapters/chapter summaries.
Monday, March 30
AP Bio- Go to Google for attendance like before. If you've read Chapter 24, you're golden. We won't test over the chapter. See below. AP Central has decided to change the exam, eliminating 25% of the original exam. The good news is that we've already covered the material they will test over. The bad news is that we already got to some of the material that will not be on the exam. That's okay, The material in question is evolution and it's the major concept underlying a boatload of biology. Understanding evolution is a good thing. I'll put together a good study guide and make it available online this week. For the AP exam itself, it's my understanding that you all will need to sign up on the AP website where you registered for the exam. It will be given at home. Your home. Last I read, it was a 45 minute test but I'm not sure about that. When I know something, I'll pass it along. Colleges have traditionally accepted scores from such modified AP exams during hard times in the past. AP is certain that you all will get the proper credit. As for practice exams, be certain that our chapter exams were solid practice. Also, I have electronic versions of exams that I cannot make available through my website. I have hard copy, though, and if you want, I could meet you at school and get you some practice exam material. I'd set it on a bench and step away. Then you could come get it without violating the 6 foot rule. Also, COVID stuff, I have not heard that it is airborne yet. The information is still transmission 3 ways -direct contact with sick person, like sharing a glass; contact with someones respiratory fluid, like being coughed on; and from fomites, surfaces that transmit disease. So clean commonly touched surfaces, wash your hands often and don't pick your nose ;-)
AP Bio- Go to Google for attendance like before. If you've read Chapter 24, you're golden. We won't test over the chapter. See below. AP Central has decided to change the exam, eliminating 25% of the original exam. The good news is that we've already covered the material they will test over. The bad news is that we already got to some of the material that will not be on the exam. That's okay, The material in question is evolution and it's the major concept underlying a boatload of biology. Understanding evolution is a good thing. I'll put together a good study guide and make it available online this week. For the AP exam itself, it's my understanding that you all will need to sign up on the AP website where you registered for the exam. It will be given at home. Your home. Last I read, it was a 45 minute test but I'm not sure about that. When I know something, I'll pass it along. Colleges have traditionally accepted scores from such modified AP exams during hard times in the past. AP is certain that you all will get the proper credit. As for practice exams, be certain that our chapter exams were solid practice. Also, I have electronic versions of exams that I cannot make available through my website. I have hard copy, though, and if you want, I could meet you at school and get you some practice exam material. I'd set it on a bench and step away. Then you could come get it without violating the 6 foot rule. Also, COVID stuff, I have not heard that it is airborne yet. The information is still transmission 3 ways -direct contact with sick person, like sharing a glass; contact with someones respiratory fluid, like being coughed on; and from fomites, surfaces that transmit disease. So clean commonly touched surfaces, wash your hands often and don't pick your nose ;-)
For attendance, use the class code below to get in to google classroom, mark the as 'done' to be counted present that day.
Period 4 AP Bio - qdj3fpg
Period 4 AP Bio - qdj3fpg
If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
March 13, 2020 - Check here for AP Bio assignments and updates. For next week, 3/16 - 3/20, READ and understand Chapter 24 - Speciation. We'll talk about the exam at a later date. I hope to take it at school like regular rather than over the internet. The chapter 24 PowerPoint is in the documents section, if it helps. Also, get through the Crispr-Cas9 readings you have by Friday.
- Spring Break reading = Chapters 29 - 34. A reminder, read these to be better prepared for the AP Exam. There's alot there but whoever heard of knowing too much?
- Spring Break reading = Chapters 29 - 34. A reminder, read these to be better prepared for the AP Exam. There's alot there but whoever heard of knowing too much?
MAY 15, 2018 - This is not a summer reading assignment but a 'heads-up' to students and parents that you can probably get a textbook this summer on Amazon or other website for a relatively low price. We will use Campbell Biology, 9th edition, by Reece, et al. ISBN # 9780321558237 (required for the course) and suggest the Campbell Biology Study Guide, 9th edition, ISBN # 9780321629920. To give you some numbers, through the publishers, new 9th editions have run about $225.00, and used about $200.00. People got the right books for less than $50.00 by using other digital markets. If this doesn't work for whatever reason, I have a book or two for check out. Again, we won't have any reading to do until we start in August, so don't sweat it if you can't swing a book yet. Have a great summer!
AP Biology
Fall 2019
Office: A207
Available: Before school, 5th and 7th hours, Access, after school
Phone: (303) 982-3541 (voice mail)
Website: www.fitchcsh.weebly.com
Fall 2019
Office: A207
Available: Before school, 5th and 7th hours, Access, after school
Phone: (303) 982-3541 (voice mail)
Website: www.fitchcsh.weebly.com
Course Overview: In AP Biology this year, we will do our best to cover the material in a one-year college biology course. We will use a university format. Lecture for three or four days per week and lab activities the other days of the week. Ultimately, approximately 25% of our time will be spent in the lab.
Teaching Strategies: I try to mimic the teaching techniques that will predominate in college. My goals are two-fold: First, understanding the rich topic of biology.
- This means comprehending the immense body of information already existing on the topic. The AP people have arranged this into 4 Big Ideas. They are:
o The process of evolution drives the diversity and unity of life.
o Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, to reproduce and to maintain dynamic homeostasis.
o Living systems store retrieve, transmit and respond to information essential to life processes.
o Biological systems interact and these systems and their interactions possess complex properties.
- Lecture, the laboratory and reading will be the primary methods of instruction.
- We will refer to 7 major Science Practices throughout the course to guide our studies. Those practices are:
o The student can use representations and models to communicate scientific phenomenon and solve scientific problems.
o The student can use mathematics properly.
o The student can engage in scientific questioning to extend thinking or to guide investigations within the context of the AP course.
o The student can plan and implement data collection strategies appropriate to a particular scientific question.
o The student can perform data analysis and evaluation of evidence.
o The student can work with scientific explanations and theories.
o The student is able to connect and relate knowledge across various scales, concepts and representations in across domains.
- Recognize that, as Paul Ehrlich said, “The alternative to thinking in evolutionary terms is not thinking at all”. We will be thinking throughout the year.
- Understanding biology also means developing a set of intellectual and physical skills necessary to operate at a high level in the laboratory or experimental arena. We will use the laboratory to teach both content and the process of science.
- In addition, we will run a seminar style part of class using articles recently published that teach us the current state of understanding on some hot biological topics (e.g. dinosaur/bird evolution, human evolution, cloning, stem cell research, bolide impact, the biology of terrorism, HIV, emerging pandemic disease, etc.). Vigorous discussion centering on understanding what the articles say and what they mean to the world necessarily follows the readings.
- The last component of understanding biology is to experience biological activities beyond the scope of the coursework. We will take field trips to places where biologists are actually working. We will visit South Platte Park to work with an urban ecologist, Barr Lake State Park to work with bird banders, and Denver’s Zoo to work with their reproduction registrar. We will also have guest lecturers in the form of a pediatrician, molecular biologist and a microbiologist, at times to be determined.
The second focus in AP Biology is to develop the academic skills necessary for success in a competitive university environment.
- These skills include reading of technical material. We will work on individualized strategies that will improve success comprehending technical material.
- Another skill necessary for success in a university environment is note taking. We will develop individualized strategies for successful note taking.
- Additionally, a successful biologist will need to discuss their understanding with peers. We will discuss many topics during seminar and throughout the year.
Grading: Your evaluation will be based only on your test scores. There will be 2 – 4 tests per term, 10 – 12 per semester. Grades will be assigned on a percentage of total points basis, using the scale of 90 – 100% = A, 80 – 89% = B, 70 – 79% = C, 60 – 69% = D. Less than 60% does not meet the standard for passing AP Bio. Tests will cover reading, lecture and laboratory material. There will be a variety of question types (e.g. essay, short answer, multiple choice, matching, identification). Every exam will include a multiple choice component and an essay component. Tests are designed to mimic the AP exam in question content and style and duration of exam. Tests will cover between 1 and 4 chapters each, plus appropriate laboratory content.
Required Materials: Each student must have a copy of Biology, 9th Edition, by Campbell and Reece, Benjamin/Cummings publishers. Recommended, but not required, is the Student Study Guide for Biology, 9th edition, by Martha Taylor, Benjamin/Cummings publishers. Copies are available at the Arapahoe Community College Bookstore. The website, www.arapahoe.bkstr.com, will allow you to order the book and have it shipped to you. You can find the book by hitting the Student Resources icon, then Bookstore, then the tiny textbook icon in the text, then Books, then Textbooks and Course Materials, then the Arapahoe program, then BIO department, then select course 111, then section Chatfield. If you need help with the bookstore, directions to the campus at 5900 S. Santa Fe, or with the website, I’ll help. I’m glad you are sitting down, because the cost of a new text is about $226.00 and a used text runs about $190.00. The Study Guide is $77.25 new and $58.00 used. The reason we’re going with this book is that is a fantastic text, its very current, it has a prepaid subscription to its own on-line learning environment, it has an auto tutorial CD ROM, and it is the standard college text, with CU, CSU, UNC, and Western State using it in their general biology classes. (College professors change textbooks, but when I called these schools, they were all using it.) This book must be in your hands soon. Your first assignment is to read the preface, and Chapters 1, 2 and 3 by this time next week.
Teaching Strategies: I try to mimic the teaching techniques that will predominate in college. My goals are two-fold: First, understanding the rich topic of biology.
- This means comprehending the immense body of information already existing on the topic. The AP people have arranged this into 4 Big Ideas. They are:
o The process of evolution drives the diversity and unity of life.
o Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, to reproduce and to maintain dynamic homeostasis.
o Living systems store retrieve, transmit and respond to information essential to life processes.
o Biological systems interact and these systems and their interactions possess complex properties.
- Lecture, the laboratory and reading will be the primary methods of instruction.
- We will refer to 7 major Science Practices throughout the course to guide our studies. Those practices are:
o The student can use representations and models to communicate scientific phenomenon and solve scientific problems.
o The student can use mathematics properly.
o The student can engage in scientific questioning to extend thinking or to guide investigations within the context of the AP course.
o The student can plan and implement data collection strategies appropriate to a particular scientific question.
o The student can perform data analysis and evaluation of evidence.
o The student can work with scientific explanations and theories.
o The student is able to connect and relate knowledge across various scales, concepts and representations in across domains.
- Recognize that, as Paul Ehrlich said, “The alternative to thinking in evolutionary terms is not thinking at all”. We will be thinking throughout the year.
- Understanding biology also means developing a set of intellectual and physical skills necessary to operate at a high level in the laboratory or experimental arena. We will use the laboratory to teach both content and the process of science.
- In addition, we will run a seminar style part of class using articles recently published that teach us the current state of understanding on some hot biological topics (e.g. dinosaur/bird evolution, human evolution, cloning, stem cell research, bolide impact, the biology of terrorism, HIV, emerging pandemic disease, etc.). Vigorous discussion centering on understanding what the articles say and what they mean to the world necessarily follows the readings.
- The last component of understanding biology is to experience biological activities beyond the scope of the coursework. We will take field trips to places where biologists are actually working. We will visit South Platte Park to work with an urban ecologist, Barr Lake State Park to work with bird banders, and Denver’s Zoo to work with their reproduction registrar. We will also have guest lecturers in the form of a pediatrician, molecular biologist and a microbiologist, at times to be determined.
The second focus in AP Biology is to develop the academic skills necessary for success in a competitive university environment.
- These skills include reading of technical material. We will work on individualized strategies that will improve success comprehending technical material.
- Another skill necessary for success in a university environment is note taking. We will develop individualized strategies for successful note taking.
- Additionally, a successful biologist will need to discuss their understanding with peers. We will discuss many topics during seminar and throughout the year.
Grading: Your evaluation will be based only on your test scores. There will be 2 – 4 tests per term, 10 – 12 per semester. Grades will be assigned on a percentage of total points basis, using the scale of 90 – 100% = A, 80 – 89% = B, 70 – 79% = C, 60 – 69% = D. Less than 60% does not meet the standard for passing AP Bio. Tests will cover reading, lecture and laboratory material. There will be a variety of question types (e.g. essay, short answer, multiple choice, matching, identification). Every exam will include a multiple choice component and an essay component. Tests are designed to mimic the AP exam in question content and style and duration of exam. Tests will cover between 1 and 4 chapters each, plus appropriate laboratory content.
Required Materials: Each student must have a copy of Biology, 9th Edition, by Campbell and Reece, Benjamin/Cummings publishers. Recommended, but not required, is the Student Study Guide for Biology, 9th edition, by Martha Taylor, Benjamin/Cummings publishers. Copies are available at the Arapahoe Community College Bookstore. The website, www.arapahoe.bkstr.com, will allow you to order the book and have it shipped to you. You can find the book by hitting the Student Resources icon, then Bookstore, then the tiny textbook icon in the text, then Books, then Textbooks and Course Materials, then the Arapahoe program, then BIO department, then select course 111, then section Chatfield. If you need help with the bookstore, directions to the campus at 5900 S. Santa Fe, or with the website, I’ll help. I’m glad you are sitting down, because the cost of a new text is about $226.00 and a used text runs about $190.00. The Study Guide is $77.25 new and $58.00 used. The reason we’re going with this book is that is a fantastic text, its very current, it has a prepaid subscription to its own on-line learning environment, it has an auto tutorial CD ROM, and it is the standard college text, with CU, CSU, UNC, and Western State using it in their general biology classes. (College professors change textbooks, but when I called these schools, they were all using it.) This book must be in your hands soon. Your first assignment is to read the preface, and Chapters 1, 2 and 3 by this time next week.
Use the links below to jump to important biology websites.
Website for our text - http://www.campbellbiology.com/
Biochemistry - http://academicearth.org/lectures/biochemistry-spring05-1
Biochemistry - http://academicearth.org/lectures/biochemistry-spring05-1