Sample Biology Comment: During this quarter students focused on the abstract concepts of chemistry of life, practiced active

reading techniques and continued to work on taking notes from both the text and from models on the board. The students performed several chemical experiments to demonstrate the organic compounds that are in their body and in their food. Additionally, during the month of December students used study skills reviewed in class to organize their materials and prepare for a midyear exam, which they took prior to the winter break. Finally, the students began to concentrate heavily on the science fair; they chose topics that interested them, developed appropriate hypotheses, used the school databases and search engines to find reliable research materials, and developed procedures for their experiment. The ongoing science fair project allows students to utilize learned time management strategies, such as using calendars and schedules, prioritizing, and avoiding distractions to effectively perform during class and independent time. In the coming quarter students will design and perform their experiments and complete the analysis for these projects. Student continues to demonstrate a high level of motivation to expand her knowledge of scientific concepts, and to improve her skills in class and when working independently. Students accuracy of content and skills has improved greatly over the quarter. In class, Student has an appropriate level of participation. She answers questions when called on and also asks questions relevant to the material being covered. She demonstrates her ability to accurately copy notes from the board without being prompted to do so. She organizes her notebook using prompts from the teachers when in class, and maintains an organized notebook outside of class. Student consistently completes her homework thoroughly and communicates with teachers if issues arise or if clarification is needed. However, Student sometimes struggles to demonstrate her knowledge due to her fluctuating ability to follow directions on homework assignments and on test and quizzes. In the laboratory Student follows directions and works well with his partner. Student typically takes a leading role and often offers guidance and knowledge to those around her. Student writes laboratory reports from an outline that reflects a strong knowledge of the scientific method and the ability to analyze data independently. In class and in the laboratory, Student remains focused and allows for few distractions to get her off track. Student has performed well on tests and quizzes, including the midterm. She is most successful at reviewing material for an assessment when direct instruction is given and specific materials are identified as study material. During class time and during independent work time Student implements active study strategies in order to review and retain the information. Overall, Student is a conscientious student in her Biology class and serves as a model to what other students should strive to be.