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Biology Group

A group for anyone taking Biology classes to learn, explore revise, practice, and celebrate Biology!
Dr Steph Acaster
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(253)
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Class

What's included

Group experience

US Grade 8 - 11
This group provides a space for all things Biology: A place for students to engage with topics in biology and to discuss their interests, achievements, and scientific problems with others! Learners who are taking Biology courses and/or have interests in biological sciences will be meet together and be able to share what they are learning about, ask questions, seek help with Biology, and start discussions - with a biology tutor on hand to help along the way. 

It is suitable for learners of all abilities/attainment levels. All learners will be encouraged to challenge their current level of understanding and experience, and to develop interests within Biology.

Throughout the weeks, we'll have topic discussions, practice exam/quiz-style questions/discussion questions, mini tutorial videos, debates and discussions on syllabus-relevant topics. Where appropriate, my posts will contain markers for 'higher' and 'foundation' skills or exam grade levels so that learners can focus on their own targets.

Learners will be able to start their own threads, such as asking for class/homework help (though posting a whole sheet and asking for the answers is not allowed!); creating their own exercises or puzzles; posing a debate or discussion question; creating biology images; sharing news items relating to biology; talking about something they are working on in biology; or teaching a concept they enjoy to the group.

I will moderate the group by posting discussion topics, exercises/activities, and interesting facts/images each week, responding to learners' posts, facilitating interactions between learners, and ensuring that all learners feel heard and welcome. Each month, learners will be able to have their say on choosing themes for discussions and activities which can be posted in the group. Activities will be learner-led, so be sure to share your ideas in the group!

Other Details

External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

What can learners do in this chat group?

1/3
Dr Steph Acaster
I've been revising the cell organelles today. What's your favourite one?
Biology Group is a community of learners that come together on Outschool to share what they’re learning, ask questions, participate in challenges, and get feedback on their projects
I like the nucleus because it's easy to see and easy to remember.
My favourite is the powerhouse mitochondria because of its shape.
I haven't learnt these yet but I can learn some on your picture!
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Joined June, 2020
5.0
253reviews
Star Educator
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Doctoral Degree in Psychology from Sheffield Hallam University
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from University of Birmingham, UK
ABOUT ME
I love to learn, and I am a big advocate of following your interests - even if they might not seem compatible at first glance!
My teaching philosophy is to encourage intellectual curiosity, motivation, and aspiration in students, whatever their current stage of education.

I teach a range of subject areas, including Psychology, Biology, Music Theory, and Maths. I'm developing new ideas all the time, so please feel welcome to get in touch if there's something you'd like to see! I can also create custom sessions - so if there's something you're looking for and can't find, please just ask!


GENERAL TEACHING APPROACH
My teaching style differs depending on different topics/activities, but my general approach is to welcome students into an environment where they can engage at a level where they feel comfortable, whilst also having opportunities to reach further and learn new things. I believe that learning is forever, and that learning should never be constrained by just one syllabus/curriculum. Students tend to learn best when they are really interested in the subject, and I love to be able to give students the chance to explore their interests! 

I encourage students to tell me what they already know about a topic, and I don't assume that I'm always the expert! I believe that learners can learn from each other's experiences and knowledge too. I also encourage everyone to ask 'why' things work as they do, and to research further around topics that capture their interest.

I don't use AI tools to provide feedback to learners as I believe that feedback should be provided that is genuine and written in my own voice.

I also believe that everyone should be able to participate in my classes, so if there may be barriers or you require adjustments to allow you to participate in a class, please feel welcome to get in touch. 

Aside from initial verification when joining the session, I do not require students to use their camera for the full session (though sometimes I will request for certain activities!). I ask students to participate, but accept that this may be verbal discussion, writing in the chat box, or using zoom 'reactions' or visual cues on camera to respond during class. In general, I will invite anyone who would like to get involved to raise their hand, rather than putting an individual 'on the spot'.



MY CLASSES - OVERVIEW
I offer a range of sessions on Psychology topics - including themes such as Introduction to Neuroscience/Neuropsychology, Psychology of Music, Brain History, and Psychology of Gaming. The aim of these sessions is to capture students' interest, share knowledge from an unusual angle, and/or give space for students to discuss their interests while bringing in elements of the science of Psychology in an accessible way.

The most popular courses in 2023 were my ongoing sessions where students can further their learning in a relaxed setting, such as my Biology, Animal Anatomy, Plants, and Neuroscience colouring classes (where students can listen whilst making creative learning resources, with little pressure to answer questions and no pressure to be tested).

I offer lots of Flexible Schedule classes suitable for learners who prefer to take time to process information or to dig into a topic more deeply before coming back to discussion or to complete assignments. These classes allow students to take time to engage with material and written discussion threads outside of the constraints of a live session schedule, and spend additional time completing assignments that will encourage deeper thinking and topic enjoyment. These classes can also be great as holiday-projects!

I offer individual tutoring for students who would like to explore additional topics in Psychology, Biology, Mathematics, or Music. These sessions can be used to supplement other classes, as an individualised study session/program, or as subject-related mentoring.

For all my classes, if you don't see a suitable section scheduled, please do reach out as I can often fit in additional meetings!


WHAT ELSE DO I GET UP TO?
As well as teaching online on Outschool and independently, I also work as an Associate Lecturer in Psychology at the Open University. When I'm not teaching, I can usually be found practicing the violin, playing in orchestra, reading, and learning new things.

I previously completed a PhD in Psychology/Cognitive Neuroscience, which involved using EEG (an electrical brain recording method) to investigate visual perception. I have taught high school and university level Psychology classes since 2014, and I have tutored in Biology, Maths, and Music Theory since 2018. I started to learn the violin as an adult and progressed through to ABRSM Grade 8 in violin and AMusTCL Diploma level in music theory!

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$4

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Ages: 13-18

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