Assessments
There are a number of different assessment opportunities in this class, each one mapped to one of the course learning outcomes.
Guided video questions
Before we start each topic, you will watch a short YouTube video and answer a few questions to familiarize yourself with the material. This will make it easier for you to follow along in class.
In-class activities
Each day will include short activities that you will work on in class to help you learn the course material.
Exams
We will have 4 exams, each covering about 3 weeks of material, that will focus on your ability to recall content and apply what you have learned. We will also have a cumulative final exam at the end of the semester.
What’s New in Vert Phys? assignments
Like all of biology, there is a lot of current research being done on vertebrate physiology, with new findings coming out all the time. Throughout the semester, you will have the opportunity to explore new research and relate it to what we are learning in class.
Reflection assignments
Reflection involves periodically stopping to think about the progress you have made towards your learning goals, the techniques you have used to learn the course material, and the adjustments you could make to help you be more successful. This is an important part of learning, and you will have a few opportunities to reflect throughout the semester.
Grading
Course grades will be based on the following (800 points total):
- Guided video questions worth 75 points total
- In-class activities worth 50 points total
- 4 exams worth 75 points each and one final worth 200 points (500 points total)
- What’s New in Vert Phys? assignments worth 125 points total
- Reflection assignments worth 50 points total
Points Letter Grade
744 – 800 A
720 – 743 A-
696 – 719 B+
664 – 695 B
640 – 663 B-
616 – 639 C+
584 – 615 C
560 – 583 C-
536 – 559 D+
504 – 535 D
480 – 503 D-
0 – 479 F