ASSESSMENT AND LEARNING FACT SHEET
Biology 1
Mrs. Sullivan and Mr. McClellan
This document is intended to provide basic information regarding learning targets, grading, homework,
remediation, and enrichment/extended learning opportunities for this course.
The specific learning targets for this course can be viewed in PowerSchool.
The majority of learning targets in this course are marking period specific, with a few targets that repeat over
several marking periods. Remediation is learning target specific.
Scientific communication and inquiry are the main biology learning targets which repeat over several
marking periods. However, students must build on and use their cumulative knowledge of prior learning
targets (i.e. Cell Organelle Structure and Function) to make connections and master current learning targets.
Grades and Evidence for this course can be viewed in PowerSchool.
To view specific details, click on the “standards” tab at the top of the screen. Please note: Learning is a process that is
on-going for students. As such, a score may be displayed in the Power School electronic grade book at the time the
evidence is collected; however, the grade for the learning target may change (up or down) based on continued learning
on the student’s part and as more evidence is gathered, including opportunities for application and strategic thinking.
Grades for the learning targets are not considered final until the end of each marking period.
 Grades will be updated after any major learning target assessment. Since some learning targets require more
time than others, this may be multiple times per week, once per week or bi-weekly.
 Parents will be emailed each time grades are updated.
Students in this class monitor and reflect on their own progress. Ask your student to show you their progress
by checking their:
 Grades in PowerSchool (accessible through the Parent Portal)
Students will need to complete work for this course outside of the school day…homework.
All homework will be coded as PREVIEW, PRACTICE, or EVIDENCE. In some cases, assigned homework will be
based on a student’s individual learning needs and may be different from their peers. Evidence will be graded
and included in the score for the related learning targets. Timely completion of all assigned tasks is an
essential component of learning and is reflected in the grade report under Characteristics of a Successful
Learner and will be referenced in all college or work recommendation letters.
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Homework will be assigned approximately 2-3 times per week. Some weeks may have more, some
less.
Reading, Note-taking, Short Practice Assignments, Article Review, Long Term Projects
Long term projects example: Cell Analogy Project
All homework and other communication from class can be found on BlackBoard.
All students will have the opportunity to remediate LEARNING TARGETS, not individual
assignments, assessments, or projects. However, It is the expectation that all students
complete the necessary work and give their BEST EFFORT THE FIRST TIME.
The purpose of remediation is to gain proficiency in a learning target. It is important to note that remediation
requires effort and additional work on the part of the student, as determined in collaboration with the teacher.
Students WILL NOT be permitted to simply RETAKE the same test or quiz to remediate a learning target.
1. Be sure all assignments, practice work and notes for the current target are complete and
turned in.
2. Create a piece of evidence to show that you are studying the material that you would like
to remediate. Some examples of evidence are:
a. Make detailed flashcards
b. Print an online quiz or create and take a quiz of your own
c. Create a study guide of the material - Rewrite your notes with important terms and
ideas highlighted. Add potential test questions in the margins.
d. Come after school to discuss the material with Mrs. Sullivan
3. Complete the target’s remediation packet.
4. Set a day and time to take an alternate assessment with Mrs. Sullivan. This must be within
two weeks of receiving the grade on the target that you wish to remediate. When you sign up
to retest, Mrs. Sullivan will ask a few questions to be sure that you are ready. If you do not
show up for your appointment you will not be permitted to remediate the target.
Note: Students who habitually choose not to exhibit Characteristics of a Successful Learner (complete all tasks
assigned, on time, etc.) may be required to petition the teacher for an opportunity to remediate.
All students will have the opportunity to enrich/extend their learning.
It is important to note that enrichment opportunities require self-advocacy, effort, additional (and often
different) work on the part of the student, as determined in collaboration with the teacher.
Enrichment opportunities for each learning target can be found on Blackboard.
The best methods and times for contacting me are:
Email: [email protected] By Phone: Between 3:00PM – 4:00PM @ 215-529-2117
Email: [email protected] By Phone: Before 7:45, 3:15PM – 4:00 PM @ 215-529-????
Phone calls during the school day go directly to voice mail. Calls will be returned after messages are
retrieved.
Special requirements for this course include:
Students must wear lab appropriate clothing including closed toe shoes on designated days.
Please refer to the student handbook/agenda for detailed information on
district approved policies and procedures.