500 East Montgomery Street
Allentown, PA 18103
610-797-4107

Mrs. Criscuolo

BIOLOGY
MRS. CRISCUOLO

ACADEMIC PHILOSOPHY: I believe that true learning and achievement are a natural consequence of internal motivation and frustration. Motivation initiates the learning sequence. It is the interest, desire and excitement that one brings to the investigation of the subject matter. Frustration is the biochemical intolerance to the unknown. Learning occurs most rapidly when motivation and frustration are heightened. Achievement completes the learning sequence when the motivational need is successfully fulfilled thereby lowering the frustration. A deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment follows achievement.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATION: From each of my students I expect honesty. Being truthful with me will allow me to help you clarify the material for yourself, may result in extended learning time and will increase your performance. Being truthful to yourself will build self-reliance and confidence. I also expect intestinal fortitude. You will develop the courage and endurance to stay with the material as your frustration increases.

ACADEMIC PROMISE: I am here for you. I don’t teach classes, I teach students. I will do my best to answer your questions and help you to resolve any problems you may have. My email address is ccriscuolo@stsd.org. Do not hesitate to contact me. I am also available after school most of the time. I will work you hard and make you think, all without “busy work” or “regurgitation”. That is a promise.

GRADING POLICY

Grades will be determined by the ratio of points earned to points available.

GRADES ARE NOT NEGOTIABLE.

ATTENDANCE POLICY: It is your responsibility to be in school. In the event of an illness or legitimate absence, you will be afforded as many days to get the notes and assignments from class. If the absence is on an announced review day, no grace time is afforded as reviews are not mandatory and you will be expected to complete the test on test day. If you cut my class, you will receive a zero for any assignment given that day, including labs, quizzes and tests. Multiple cuts will result in your removal from class.

HOMEWORK: Yes. Including weekends and school breaks. If you write it, I collect, inspect and grade it. Signed parent letters and detention at my discretion may be required for missing homework.

STUDY HELP

Please utilize the following links to enhance your understanding of the content that we will cover this year. As the year progresses, more links will be added.

Student oriented, interactive activities on Biology topics
http://www.biology.arizona.edu/default.html

Educational resource for students K-12
http://ls.la.asu.edu/askabiologist/

Worksheets, study guides and quizzes
http://www.glencoe.com/sec/science/biology/bdol98/skill_handbook/tc.html

The homework spot with tips on: Taking good notes, test taking, big exams, library research
http://www.homeworkspot.com/

Articles and resources on many Biology topics
http://biology.about.com/cs/biologyhowtos/index.htm

A FINAL THOUGHT…

Communication is the key to success. No one can help you if you do not communicate that you are having a problem. Problems big or small, lengthy or brief; let me know when you are in need of support. If I can’t help you I will find someone who can. Parents: I welcome your input in your child’s education and will reply to all emails quickly.