Tips For Success in Biology

Unit Test Format Tests are written at the understanding/application level, NOT recall! ◦Recall-level example: What is an observation? What is an inference? ◦Understanding/application level example: What might occur if a scientist only made conclusions based on inferences and not observations? Test includes: ◦Multiple choice ◦Short answer – can answer with sentences, bullet points, diagrams, etc. Graded using Keystone rubric (see hanbook for this) ◦Remember, these are at the application/understanding level, NOT recall! This test format is aligned with other biology classes at NAI and with the Biology Keystone Exam.

Study Hints 1. Do your own work! -Even though you work with a partner: don’t copy, don’t move on unless YOU understand. 2. Do a good job on the unit notes/outlines! -If absent, make sure to complete the notes completed that day -Don’t leave blanks! Don’t guess! -You bring these to class everyday and use them as a resource for doing labs and other in-class activities.

Study Hints 3. Study EVERY night for biology, even if there is no “homework”. ◦Learn/memorize the vocabulary words.  Quizlet ◦Look over papers that have been returned to you – know the correct answers if you missed something! ◦Review notes/outline for content we have already learned in class. ◦Review notes/outline relevant to material we are currently doing in class or are doing later in the week.

Study Hints 4. Prepare for tests/quizzes early, NOT the night before! ◦Try this: Study a topic then close your notes. Re-write everything you remember about the topic. Then check your notes and see what you didn’t write or didn’t write correctly. ◦Try this: Study a topic then close your notes. Teach Mom everything about the topic – Mom will ask questions when she doesn’t understand. Then check your notes and see what you didn’t teach her or didn’t teach her correctly. ◦Try this: After you study a topic (and know all the vocabulary words), ask yourself “what if” questions.

Study Hints 5. Use the Study Guide in the handbook to guide your preparation for unit tests. ◦Includes:  SG Key posted on class website  Sections of the handbook relevant to the unit  “Lecture” slides posted online  List of all labs, activities, homework, etc. covered in the unit  List of Keystone exam topics in handbook relevant to the unit – big ideas 6. Ask for help! ◦homeroom, before/after school, study with friends, etc.

Where do I find resources to help me study? Recall (knowing the vocabulary, definitions, etc.) is still important and should be ongoing! ◦Necessary for success in class everyday. ◦Find examples in: textbook, handbook notes, questions at end of sections and chapters in textbook, pre-lab questions, homework. Application/understanding is how you will be tested (in class and Keystone). ◦Find examples in: Keystone example questions (located in back of handbook), post-lab/analysis questions, class discussions, homework. Typically NOT found in the textbook!