Dissection and limited work with live specimens is a part of the standard experience in biology.  Alternatives to dissection are available for any student who objects to dissection and whose parent or guardian sends a written request to the school.  As a courtesy, please send the written request at least two weeks in advance, so that alternatives are available.  In general, dissection occurs in June after the MCAS test, so please contact me before May 15th.  A substitute assignment will be given in place of dissection and you will be responsible for knowing the basic anatomy & physiology of the systems studied.

For a detailed description regarding the 6 major frameworks for high school biology, please refer to the Massachusetts Department of Education’s website, where the most current frameworks for Science and Technology can be downloaded.  The MCAS biology test is given statewide in early June.