DESCRIPTION:  The laboratory component of this course provides for practical hands-on involvement in science and scientific inquiry.  Lecture topics are exemplified in the laboratory program to promote understanding and reinforce lecture material.  The laboratories are designed to chronologically follow the presentation of the lecture material as closely as is feasible.  Exercises will be performed by individuals or small groups of students.  The instructor will provide an explanation of the work to be performed and be present during the laboratory period to guide and assist students.  The laboratory exercises are contained in a laboratory manual authored by the VSCC Biology Department Faculty.  Some laboratory programs will be supplemented by video or filmstrip programs, film-loops, slide presentations, and/or field experiences.  The students will receive instruction and supervision in the use of scientific tools appropriate to introductory biology.  The scientific method of problem solving will receive particular emphasis and practice in the laboratory. 

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:  All policies and procedures not described below are contained in the lecture section and will apply to the laboratory.

GRADING:  The laboratory grade, as determined by the laboratory instructor, will count 25% of the course grade.  It will be derived from four sources* of equal weight:  

1.  Quiz Average - Quizzes covering material from the previous week's lab will be given at the discretion of the instructor.  (The lowest quiz grade will be dropped.)

2.  Laboratory Examination I - This is a practical examination and will test material covered in labs 1, 2, 3, and 4.

3.  Laboratory Examination II - This practical examination will test material covered in labs 6 and 7.

4.  Laboratory Examination III - This practical examination will test material covered in labs 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13. 

NOTE:  A student must have an average of 50 or above in order to receive any credit from the laboratory component.

Example:      87 lecture average     x .70 = 60.9

                     49 lab average                   =   0

                                          Final Average = 61 = D

ABSENCE FROM EXAMINATIONS OR QUIZZES:  Absence from a laboratory has two consequences.  The instructor will record a zero for any missed quiz, and the student will not benefit from assistance in mastering the material presented in the lab.  There will be no make-up session provided for the laboratory.  Laboratory examinations will be given only at the time scheduled by the laboratory instructor and may not be made up.   

NOTE:  Official absences from the college (absences excused by the appropriate Dean) are not subject to these policies and will be handled individually.  Under these circumstances (official absences) arrangements MUST be made in advance. 

*  During shorter terms, the grade may be determined from the quiz average and fewer laboratory examinations as explained by your instructor.    

ADA Statement:  It is the student’s responsibility to self-identify with the Office of Disability Services to receive accommodations and services in accordance with The Americans With Disabilities Act.  (ADA)  Only those students with appropriate documentation will receive services.  For further information, contact the Office of Disability Services at 230-3472 or visit the office which is located on the ground floor of the Wood Campus Center.