Welcome to Bio 14! I’m Dr. Kristin Polizzotto, and I will be your instructor for Biology 1400: General Biology 2. I’m glad you’re here, and I’m looking forward to getting to know you and supporting your learning. You are welcome to call me Dr. K or Dr. P for short. “Professor” is good too!
Bio 14 is a class that focuses on ecology, evolution, and organismal biology. I like to say that Bio 13 is the biology you do mostly in the lab, and Bio 14 is the biology you do mostly outdoors.
I’ve been teaching for almost 20 years, and here’s what I know about Kingsborough students: you’re resourceful, creative, and smart, and you can succeed! I’m here to facilitate your success, as a partner and guide. So let’s get started!
How This Course Works
- This is a hybrid course. You will complete approximately 6-8 hours of independent work each week. We also meet in person each week for a one-hour interactive discussion, and for a three-hour lab.
- All resources are available in Blackboard (no need to purchase textbooks or lab manuals). However, you will need to purchase a long-sleeved, knee-length lab coat (any brand, any color).
- This course is organized into weekly modules that begin every Monday and end on Sunday night.
- Each module contains a list of learning objectives and a set of resources for studying those objectives (readings, videos, and slides).
- There are three independent assignments due every week: a reflection on the lab activities, an assignment to show what you learned in your independent work for the week, and an assignment related to your semester-long project.
- You will also complete an in-class graded activity during the weekly one-hour discussion.
- Four unit exams will be given in person throughout the semester, as well as a comprehensive final exam.
Expectations
What you can expect from me:
- A clear, specific list of what you are expected to learn (learning objectives)
- Accessible and effective resources for learning the material
- A reasonable schedule for coursework, and flexibility with due dates when unexpected challenges arise
- An organized Blackboard site for the course
- Clear and frequent communication
- An inclusive approach (respectful of you as an individual, using your preferred name and pronouns, open to your ideas about the course)
- Prompt feedback on the work you submit and on how you’re doing in the course
What I will expect from you:
- Clear communication of your needs and concerns
- Respect for the time I set aside for this class (coming on time, striving to meet due dates, etc)
- Asking questions when you do not understand something or need more information
- Active participation in class activities
Equity Statement
Everyone is welcome here and everyone can learn and do well in this class. In this class, all of us can share and learn from each other’s background and experiences. Our diversity and differences are valuable. This is a brave space. We are not here to be perfect. We will make mistakes, and it’s ok! Lead with kindness in all your interactions in this class.
How to Get Your Questions Answered
Most of your questions can be answered with the information on this website or on Blackboard. However, you are welcome to reach out to me any time with questions. How to contact me:
Student hours: Tues 10:30 – 12:30 in person S-116 & Wed 11 – 12 via Zoom
No appointment needed at those times; other times by appointment
Zoom office hours connection link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82109115153?pwd=VU5KWUo0SXY5TnJ0TmlPNDg5R2RZQT09
Email: [email protected]
How to Email a Professor (a list of tips to give you some confidence contacting me!)
Emails answered within 24 hours (48 hours on weekends and holidays)
You may call me Dr. K or Dr. P, if Professor Polizzotto is too long to say. I use she/hers pronouns.
This entry is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International license.
