4.1

Andrea Pesce

Biology - James Madison University

4.1
Quality
3.2
Difficulty
76%
Would Retake
150
Reviews
4.1
Quality
3.2
Difficulty
4.2
Helpful
3.9
Clarity

76%

Would Retake

150

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

80

4

35

3

21

2

10

1

4

What Students Say

Never in my life have I hated a biology class with so much passion

BIO114L - 2.0 rating

I don't know why people say her tests are so hard because they really aren't

BIO114 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

82%

Textbook Required

63%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 44 grades
Most common grades:
A (10)
B (8)
Not sure yet (7)
Grade Distribution
A(11)B(12)C(9)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(12)
Based on 51 reported grades
A: 10
B: 8
Not sure yet: 7
A-: 6
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (16)
Tough grader (14)
Lecture heavy (13)
Accessible outside class (13)
Caring (10)
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Participation matters (7)
Clear grading criteria (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.32 avg change
Apr
May
Aug
Nov
Dec
Mar
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

BIO120

5.0

(5)

ZOO

5.0

(1)

ZOOLOGY

5.0

(1)

BIO124

5.0

(1)

BIO0001

4.5

(2)
+9 more courses
Difficulty by Course

BIO114HL

5.0

BIO140

4.0

BIOL140

4.0

BIO140L

3.5

BIO150

3.4

Reviews (150)
5.0
2.0
BIO120
Apr 2, 2002

Extremely clear, organized, and ez to follow

5.0
2.0
BIO120
Apr 5, 2002

she's an awesome teacher...very helpful and clear

2.0
4.0
BIO114
Oct 22, 2002

No Comments

4.0
2.0
BIO114LA
Nov 11, 2002

read labs, pay attention, know what's going on in the labs, and you'll do fine

5.0
2.0
BIO120
Nov 30, 2002

Most Straightforward and clear prof. ever!

5.0
3.0
ZOO
Dec 14, 2002

she is so wonderful... hard but great

5.0
2.0
BIO114L
Dec 30, 2002

very helpul espwcially in office hours..very picky though but most biologists r

5.0
1.0
BIO114L
Jan 22, 2003

No Comments

5.0
2.0
BIO114L
Apr 21, 2003

Good prof. She only tests on the lectures so don't really have to read! Very important to go to class and lots of studying to do well...but it's very possible.

3.0
4.0
BIO114
May 19, 2003

I came into this class thinking it would be really easy and semi-interesting, but it SUCKED and brought down my GPA. If you're not a science major, don't bother with this junk.

5.0
2.0
BIO120
Nov 2, 2003

Wonderful teacher! She was very interesting and pretty easy.

4.0
5.0
BIO114
Nov 7, 2003

First - I'm not a bio major. I think its def a difficult class - don't like the way she organizes her lectures. Tests are weird. However, really nice teacher-will help you as much as she can. Go to her office hours! Take her over other Bio 114 profs!

4.0
2.0
BIO114
Nov 7, 2003

She's very teleological...you don't need to pay attention in her class at all because her tests are so confusing it wont matter if you take notes.just study the notes that she gives you.the hardest thing is to guess what she means on the tests.nice prof.

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Nov 19, 2003

Nicest Lady! great teacher...good lectures...just pay attention

4.0
3.0
BIO114
Nov 20, 2003

She's really nice. Her tests are pretty hard and confusing. You need to study a lot. Just study what she lectures, don't bother reading.

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Dec 8, 2003

awesome teacher. very helpful. lectures can be boring but tests are based on her lectures. so take good notes! DONT BUY THE BOOK! not needed! (wish someone informed me) very helpful; wants everyone to get good grades

4.0
3.0
BIO114
Dec 11, 2003

She's very clear. You dont need to buy the book, but definately take notes and study them. If you study the notes you should do allright. The multiple choice is tricky though

5.0
2.0
ZOOLOGY
Jan 5, 2004

Very nice & helpful teacher. Class was interesting & if you study & keep up you can do pretty well.

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Apr 2, 2004

very friendly and helpful~ very easy, clear lectures~ but her tests can get tricky sometimes but gives you lot of partial credit. awesome class and brought my GPA up, strongly recommended

5.0
3.0
BIO114
May 5, 2004

Hard class but she tries to make it easier for you. Tests about every 2 weeks that you HAVE to study for! She's really helpful, you just have to go to her. Really nice lady and wants everyone to do well, just a hard class in general

5.0
4.0
BIO114
May 6, 2004

The subject matter may be difficult for some, but Dr. Pesce presents it to students in a way taht couldn't be better. She's a very nice and helpful woman and her lectures are always very well timed and organized.

4.0
4.0
BIO114
May 11, 2004

Bio 114 is one of the worst classes I've had to take. Pesce is probably the best 114 teacher but I would avoid this class like the plague. It sucks so bad!

4.0
2.0
BIO114
Jul 11, 2004

Class entirely based on notes--don't use book at all. Memorize your notes, and understand how to compare/contrast different areas of bio. Gives you power pt. slides for lots of her notes. Go to every class, study=easy A. Don't recommend her for lab.

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Oct 10, 2004

Pesce is by far the best 114 teacher. Make sure to take good notes because that's all the tests are based on. Don't bother reading. Not really an extremely difficult class, but there's just so much material you MUST to study regularly.

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Nov 14, 2004

She's pretty decent. only thing is, if you take it early at all, you might fall asleep b/c not many notes YOU actually write, she gives them to you and you're just forced to follow. She's very available to help. mult. choice are worth way too much on the test. Class assignments so you have to go

4.0
2.0
BIO114
Nov 17, 2004

Definitly the best Bio organisms teacher. Make sure you go to class!! Her tests are all based on lecture! You really dont need to read the book at all. Dont buy it, but if you a bio major it might be helpfull to do the readings. Sometimes the readings give the answers to the class assighnment. Overa

5.0
1.0
BIO114
Nov 19, 2004

I love Ms. Pesce! She's a very brilliant woman who is quite willing to help out if you have any questions at all. If you have a background in Biology, don't bother buying the book - it's a major waste of money! Multiple choice on exams + mini-exams are brutal. Lovely person all around!

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Apr 8, 2005

Ms. Pesce is a great biology teacher. She is very approachable and is always willing to help when you come to her office hours with questions. Definitely take her class, because she presents challenging material clearly and in a relatively organized manner.

5.0
4.0
BIO114
May 16, 2005

One of the best teachers I have ever had. Tough grader, but you learn a lot. Difficult classes, definitely don't slack off. Aside from this, she gives great lectures, and I would definitely take her again.

3.0
4.0
BIO114
Jul 23, 2005

I dont know why everyone likes this teacher so much. Class is fairly boring and hard to pay attention. Everything comes from notes but class is so boring its impossible to pay attention to take notes. You have to go to this class. Not that great at all and I would try to get a different teacher if possible.

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Nov 11, 2005

Dr. Pesce is an awesome teacher. Her lectures can be boring at times, but Dr. Pesce cares more about her students than any other teacher I have seen. She memorizes all of the students names within the first couple weeks. The tests are hard, but so is the material on them, theres no way around it. Definately take Dr. Pesce!

5.0
5.0
BIO114
Grade: B
Dec 12, 2005

hard tests. thats all i have to say. tricky

5.0
2.0
BIO124
Dec 19, 2005

I may be a freshman that has only taken one semester so far, but Dr. Pesce is hands down the best professor I've encountered so far in college. She is eager to help before, during, and after class. Her tests can be somewhat tricky, but they're modest. She is just a sweet women who makes it apparent that she actually cares about her class. take her.

4.0
4.0
BIO114
Dec 24, 2005

Extremely nice teacher, but her teaching ability is a bit lacking.Tests are extremely confusing and class is fairly boring but u have to go cause there are in class assignments.If you study you won't do too bad but i would have preferred another teacher.She always was smiling in class for no reason- it kinda creeped me out a bit...oh well lol

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Feb 24, 2006

Andrea Pesce is a great teacher. She does her best to learn everybody's name, even in big lectures. She's very personable and intelligent. She loves to talk about her personal experiences but can tie them to the lectures well. Take her!

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Mar 30, 2006

I love Andrea! This class rocks! She's very personable and friendly and really wants to help students. She always smiles and says hi to me, even two years after I took the class. You DO have to study well for this class, but if you think you want to be a bio major and you do not want to study, go do some other major. Andrea is a great teacher!

4.0
4.0
BIO114
Apr 5, 2006

Take her! I'm not a bio major, and only took Bio 114 for gen ed requirements. Even though science isn't my "thing",she is pretty clear in her lectures and does her best to help you. MUST GO TO CLASS AND MUST STUDY FOR TESTS. Although tests are difficult, if you study and put in the time you will be fine.

4.0
5.0
BIO114
Dec 10, 2006

Extremely nice lady, takes the time to learn everyones names. BUT! ridiculously hard tests, seemed like no matter how much effort I put into them I still got a C and trust me I worked my butt off. I'm changing my major because of the frustration from this class.

3.0
4.0
BIO114
Jan 24, 2007

Pesce makes tests hard purposly, so not everybody will receive good grades in her class. Studied hours for tests but the questions she ask aren't right out of her lectures, she tries to make you "analyze material" to find out the answer. This makes this class extremely hard even if you know the material inside out. Frustrating, Hard, Boring,

5.0
4.0
BIO114
Oct 22, 2007

awesome teacher if you want to learn the info. she teaches straight what she wants you to know and is really open to help anyone with questions (even if they dont pertain to the assignment but your are just wondering something) not boring, and doesnt mandate that you come to class you are going to have to study to get a good grade

5.0
1.0
BIO114
Oct 31, 2007

She's a really nice teacher and is extremely helpful and nice to talk to after class. She cares more about the big picture and general concepts than about details. This class is really easy and boring if you already know the material. She gives random in class assignments. There are six tests a semester; study her ppt. slides and you'll do fine.

5.0
1.0
BIO114
Nov 9, 2007

she has the best lecturing skills ever...i actually understand bio now :) .....highly recommended!!!!!!!!!!!!!

5.0
4.0
BIO114
Dec 5, 2007

My favorite professor so far in college! She is very easy to understand and really wants to help everyone do well. The book isn't really necessary, the tests come strictly from lecture and her powerpoint slides. The tests are difficult, but if you really take the time to study you will do fine. TAKE HER!!!!

5.0
4.0
BIO114
Dec 7, 2007

LOVE PESCE!!!! very interesting in class...attendance is not mandatory, but she gives easy class assignments that you can only do if u go to class...but they r easy point. Class is interesting too, esp is you like bio...so its fun to go. Also her tests arent THAT hard.study and read textbook for clarification

2.0
4.0
BIO114
Dec 26, 2007

She is a horrible teacher..she doesnt know how to teach...she just reads off the slides...she makes you think that the tests are going to be easy and straight forward but they are very difficult...matching...fill in the blank, and essay, and a couple multiple choice, make connections b/w lab and lecture...lab tests are hard, avoid getting her!

4.0
4.0
BIO114
Aug 6, 2008

Professor Pesce is AWESOME** She is very knowledgeable about bio and she loves what she does. GO TO CLASS because she gives in class assignments to help boost your grade. Tests are challenging..but she is always willing to help you - office hours, after class, or she will even make special appointments to meet with you..TAKE HER!!!!!

5.0
1.0
BIO114
Oct 23, 2008

AMAZING PROFESSOR!! this was such a great class, I highly recommend it! she is an excellent teacher and if you have any trouble at all, every question can be easily answered in her office hours :) Take this class!!!

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Nov 10, 2008

You must take this class!! I was so nervous about Bio but she makes it fun and understandable. she is always offering help, and holds review sessions before tests! tests are mainly from powerpoints, but i love the class, didn't skip it all year! good luck

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Dec 3, 2008

She is a amazing teacher. She gives powerpoints for you for lectures but some slides you have to add in as a reason to come to class. tests are straight from the powerpoints. you DO NOT need the book. i haven't picked it up all year. she holds review sessions for tests. Attendence is reccommended because of class assignments given randomly.

4.0
2.0
BIO114
Dec 19, 2008

Good 114 instructor. She knows alot about labs too. But just study the powerpoints and go to class so that you dont miss a random class assignment. The tests are ok. They are mixed format and the multiple choice part is the hardest.

4.0
4.0
BIO114
Jan 13, 2009

Mrs. Pesce is a really nice person, but she doesn't know that much. I think she crams for her lectures. If you ask about something she wasn't planning to lecture on, she'll reliably go home, look it up, and get back to you the next class, but she rarely knows the answer off the top of her head. Powerpoint handouts are very useful. Tests are tough.

5.0
3.0
BIO114
May 8, 2009

Pesce is amazing. If you need to take BIO 114 make sure you get her. She knows alot about the class because she is the lab coordinator and she really is a great proffesor.

2.0
5.0
BIO114
Oct 26, 2009

She's nice, and tries to help everyone, but doesn't know the material well. She also tries to oversimplify things and ends up getting them flat out wrong. Tests are very difficult and misleading "to get a bell curve". Meaning that unless you know the material like the back of your hand and understand verbal fallacies expect no better than a C.

1.0
5.0
BIO114
Oct 26, 2009

She's really really hard do not take her unless you are a bio major and have already taken AP bio. Lectures do not make sense but she tests on them as if you memorized them. Not to mention she can't explain anything or help out at all. She also wrote the 80$ lab book that is basically just a bunch of worksheets, and can all be done on google.

2.0
5.0
BIO114
Oct 27, 2009

Boring class, unhelpful professor and tests that are impossible.

5.0
4.0
BIO114
Oct 28, 2009

Shes awesome! Great teacher, focuses on concepts rather than the nitty gritty details. If you have an interest in Bio whether you are a bio major or not get her! She is extremely nice, knows her stuff and if you go to her office hours she will not let you leave without understanding the material. Great Class!

4.0
3.0
BIO114
Nov 3, 2009

Mediocre professor. Lecture's are BORING-i fall asleep almost every class. She wants to make sure you get stuff, but on tests can be pretty UNCLEAR. very PICKY about wording on tests..gets annoying. If you study hard, you can pull off a B. Go to office hours, she will tell you some things that will be on the exams.

2.0
5.0
BIO114
Nov 9, 2009

This class is sooo hard! The material isn't too bad but she makes the tests really hard with bogus questions that aren't whether you know the material or not its just if you can not get confused by her riddles. Do not take her unless you like loong lectures and really hard tests!

3.0
5.0
BIO114
Nov 11, 2009

Do not take that's all I can say. Not only are lectures just her going off onto tangents about nothing at all, but the tests are near impossible!

3.0
3.0
BIO114
Nov 18, 2009

While she is a very nice lady her teaching is not very good. I did not take ap bio and even though i studied my but off I couldn't get more than a low B on a test. She gives a few multiple choice on tests which she makes tricky with the wording. also explains a lot of things wrong.I wouldnt recommend her

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Dec 4, 2009

This professor truly cares about her students. I would highly recommend her... I learned a TON and was extremely happy with the format of the class. Tough tests, but definitely doable and do not focus on tedious details, but concepts and themes. Take her if you can.

4.0
4.0
BIO114
Jan 2, 2010

Pesce is a good professor, she wants to see her students succeed. However, her tests are pretty insane. I'm an upper classman and have taken upper level biology courses and if you can get past her tricks on tests, you will be okay. Structure of class sucks, lab is boring, plants section is miserable! Go to office hours, get to know the woman.

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Mar 24, 2010

Anyone who doesn't like her is an idiot. She teaches biology like it ought to be taught, with a focus on the big picture. Will incorporate information on tests and ask for interpretation. Multiple choice questions are tricky, but it separates out those who know it and those who don't. Great class, awesome lab. Excellent general bio class.

5.0
4.0
BIO114
Apr 8, 2010

Pesce is a good teacher very clear and she loves what she does. However, she is a hard grader and tends to play favorites. You have to go to her for help and/or questions.

1.0
5.0
BIO114
May 24, 2010

Tests do not reflect lecture material, she "installs a curve" meaning they are incredibly difficult so only 10% or less of the class gets A's. She also writes her own reviews because the review process "isnt fair to teachers" Avoid at all costs.

5.0
4.0
BIO114
Oct 28, 2010

Mrs. Pesce is a caring and knowledgeable professor. Her tests make you think, but she covers all the information in lecture. As long as you come to class and listen, you should do well. Also, this class should be pretty straightforward if you got a 4 or 5 on the AP Bio exam.

5.0
1.0
BIO114
Dec 14, 2010

Professor Pesce does an excellent job of covering organisms starting with bacteria and ending with animals. The tests require thought, but studying the powerpoint slides thoroughly should ensure an A on the exams. Also, she is extremely helpful in reviews for exams and during her office hours. Attend class, pay attention, and don't fall asleep!

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Dec 21, 2010

She really cares about her students and goes out of her way for them. Just study the slides thoroughly and you should be fine. She thoroughly explains the material, and if there is something you don't understand, she will definitely help you out. Take this professor.

5.0
1.0
BIO114
Jan 23, 2011

Probably the best 114 teacher (didn't have any of the others so I can only assume). Take her if you really care about biology.

5.0
5.0
BIO114
Mar 29, 2011

She is a great teacher and knows what shes talking about. You need to visit her office hours. Her tests are very difficult. but as long as you talk to her, she will explain things.

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Apr 7, 2011

Great class!! Good teacher, test are not as hard as everyone makes them out to be just study!

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Apr 15, 2011

Pesce is great. She is all about the big picture and doesn't scrutinize (too heavily) on minor details. You need to study the power points and ask her questions if you're uncertain about anything to do well in her class. Tests / Quizzes test your ability to apply information rather than regurgitate. Excellent professor.

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Apr 24, 2011

Great teacher! Her tests are difficult, but STUDY! You will do fine. Go to office hours. She is such a great help and she loves biology. She is so nice and such a genuinely caring person.

5.0
4.0
BIO114
May 2, 2011

Great professor. Knows what she is talking about. Very approachable and is enthusiastic about her class. First time I felt like i was really in college. Tests are very hard, but if you study a lot and really grasp the concepts you should be fine. TAKE HER, you wont regret it

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Oct 25, 2011

She is very helpful and passionate about biology. you don't need to bother getting the book. her tests are pretty difficult but study the powerpoints and you'll do fine

4.0
4.0
BIO0001
Dec 11, 2011

Studied, went to her reviews and office and still struggled on tests-they are hard! In spite of this, she is very approachable and passionate about biology SO use her to your advantage! I would recommend this class, but most people end up with a C. :(

2.0
5.0
BIO114
Apr 13, 2012

Difficult class! I studied so much for this class but consistently got low test grades. It really takes a lot to do well in her class. clicker points and class assignments really help though

4.0
3.0
BIO114
Nov 14, 2012

Don't buy the text book. She is a very nice lady but I found myself falling asleep every class. Her tests are hard and I dislike how she words questions.

4.0
4.0
BIO114
Nov 14, 2012

She is such a sweet lady. She really knows her stuff. Her tests are extremely challenging though and all night study sessions barley helped. She will reteach anything you need retaught though!

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Dec 8, 2012

Amazing professor !! Extremely helpful and tells you exactly what needs to be done. Her tests are challenging its little details that you need to know but absolutely never dreaded going to her class

3.0
3.0
BIO114
Dec 28, 2012

Worst Professor I've had. Her tests were ridiculous and her multiple choice were impossible worth 4 point each. I went to every class, studied and went to her office hours. I struggled for the C I got. I only got that because of clicker questions. I'd take someone else if possible. Pesce is a super sweet lady away from class though.

5.0
2.0
BIO0001
Feb 7, 2013

Her test are all only off her powerpoints and you must attend class everyday to get them and answer her occasional clicker question. Overall she is nice and will help you when you ask for it. Her tests are a bit hard since they're multiple choice, short answer and essays. STUDY THE POWERPOINTS VERY CAREFULLY!

5.0
2.0
BIO114
Apr 26, 2013

TAKE PESCE! She is very clear when explaining material and when telling you what you do/do not need to know for tests. I don't know why people say her tests are so hard because they really aren't. Always just studied the day before and got an A on every test. If you pay attention and read her ppt lectures, you'll do just fine. Best professor yet.

5.0
4.0
BIO114L
Nov 3, 2013

I love Mrs. Pesce. She is super dry and boring sometimes, but I know so much about the material without even having to study. She makes you learn without you even knowing it. She's a hard grader and very picky but if you follow directions and go in during office hours, you'll be golden.

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Apr 8, 2014

I really like her! Lectures are interesting and make you learn the material just by paying attention. Tests are straightforward. Just show up, listen, and study a little and you will succeed easily. She knows her stuff and wants to teach it to you!

5.0
2.0
BIO114
May 25, 2014

Dr. Pesce's class was not too difficult, but kind of boring, especially if you took AP Bio in high school. I didn't need to study much, but if you keep up with the readings and go to lectures, you'll be fine. There are 3 cumulative tests along with a mini-test and a cumulative final. Sometimes online homework is assigned as well.

4.0
2.0
114
Nov 5, 2014

the lectures can get a little dry but she explains everything quite well. She really knows what shes talking about and dosen't make you memorize every detail. I hardly used the book at all and got a B+ with light studying. I recommended her to all my friends

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Grade: A-
Nov 8, 2014

Professor Pesce is wonderful! Although her lectures may be a tad boring at times she is very informative and teaches in a way that is easy to understand. If you pay attention in class you don't even have to read the book, plus she prints all the notes for you. She is also very nice and approachable. I recommend her a lot!

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Grade: C-
Dec 20, 2014

Her lectures are very long and a bit dry sometimes, but overall she's clear about what she wants you to learn. Honestly you don't even need to read the textbook because all the test material are in her lectures that she prints out slides for. Attendance is checked by clickers and online assignments will count for A LOT of your final grade.

5.0
3.0
BIO114
Grade: C-
Dec 23, 2014

goods

4.0
4.0
BIO114
Grade: A+
Dec 30, 2014

So there's 4 exams, and they are super, duper difficult. She hands out lecture powerpoints, and basically anything written on them will appear on the test-beware of mc's. I think if you pay attention in lecture to how she wants you to remember stuff, and if you're good at understanding the interconnectedness of Bio, you'll be okay

4.0
3.0
BIO114
Grade: B-
Mar 30, 2015

If you want to be successful in this class, then it's a good idea to show up and take notes during her lecture. She also doesn't have an attendance policy. However, she has clicker questions and uses that as an attendance grade. This class isn't too difficult, but you have to put in a fair amount of time to study for tests.

5.0
1.0
BIO114
Grade: B
Mar 31, 2015

Pesce is amazing! I loved her lectures and she is super helpful during office hours. She honestly cares about how you do in the course. TAKE HER! She does clicker questions and uses that as attendance. Tests have multiple choice, fill in the blank, and matching. Tests aren't hard, as long as you study!

5.0
3.0
BIO114
May 13, 2015

Overall Professor Pesce is a wonderful teacher. Its a weed out course, so you are expected to put time into the class. However her class is very well structured, just show up to class pay attention and take thorough notes on the power point hand outs and you should be fine. The book isn't necessary, her notes are much better. 90% is an A, 80% B

3.0
3.0
BIO114
Grade: B
Oct 21, 2015

Tests are challenging only because she requires you to think about things as well as comprehend and expand on them.

2.0
4.0
BIO114L
Grade: B
Nov 6, 2015

Never in my life have I hated a biology class with so much passion. The labs are the full 3 hours and it is soul-draining. It is next to impossible to get full credit on assignments because everything is expected to be written exactly in her words. She will tell you something is right and then mark it wrong when you turn it in.

1.0
5.0
BIO114
Grade: C-
Nov 7, 2015

This woman has made it impossible to enjoy my freshman year. Any work you do, you can expect to get it back with red pen and incoherant comments all over the page. She will call anything not in her words "wrong" and anything else "plagarism". She takes a lab that should be an hour an 40 minutes and somehow manages to stretch it into 3 hours!!

3.0
5.0
BIO114L
Grade: B-
Dec 11, 2015

One of the worst lab experiences; lasts the full 3 hours, feedback inconsistent with grading. If any written assignment is not written exactly as she would write it, you can kiss getting a decent grade goodbye. Sometimes organization during lab is haphazard. You have to work insanely hard for this intro course to remotely get an average grade.

2.0
5.0
BIO114HL
Grade: C
Jan 5, 2016

She lectures for about 2 hours out of the 3 hours we have to be in lab, which makes it nearly impossible to focus by the end. I did not enjoy one day I had lab class and was thankful when it was over. On top of this, she is the hardest grader I have ever run into and you have to work insanely hard to get a mediocre grade.

3.0
4.0
BIO114
Mar 31, 2016

Doc Pesce is nice and helpful if you seek it out. Lectures however, are very confusing. She's all over the place. She gives you printed notes so you don't have to take them, all you have to do is pay attention to her and try not to fall asleep. Tests are pretty straightforward if you study and you need to buy a $60 online assignment program

1.0
4.0
BIO114
Apr 10, 2016

She isn't the worst ever when it comes to teaching, but she is ridiculous in a lot of ways. You will have to complete online Mastering Biology assignments with forgettable due dates (like Saturday at 5pm). She also takes attendance every day, and holds Saturday classes for snow days, then is surprised when no one shows up. Not an enjoyable class.

5.0
3.0
BIO140L
Grade: A-
Jan 9, 2017
Would take again

Pesce grades somewhat tough so it's hard to get an A but if you work with her it's certainly possible. Also the lab grade is 40% of the lecture grade so it's definitely doable to get an A in BIO140 as a whole. She's available outside of class and is helpful in class. As long as you put some effort in you should be fine.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
3.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: B
Dec 11, 2017
Would take again

Tests are very fair and all of the information is given in lecture. Very approachable and willing to help, holds review sessions for every test. Uses clicker questions to measure attendance but they only count 40% of the time. Assigns a bunch of pointless case studies. You have to attend lectures if you want to pass but they are insanely boring.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
4.0
BIO120
Grade: A-
Dec 12, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Pesce is by far one of the BEST professors I have taken thus far at JMU. She is so sweet and you can tell she truly cares about her students. The material was a lot less in depth than what was taught in 140 but you can tell she knows what she is talking about. Her tests are fair but she makes you work for the A. 10/10 TAKE HER!!!!

5.0
3.0
BIO140L
Grade: B
Dec 13, 2017
Would take again

Loved having Pesce for 140 Lab. She was so sweet and was always ready to answer your questions. Obviously have to show up as it only meets once a week. Just try on the pre-lab quizzes, in class, and study for the final and you'll get at least a B. Would definitely pick her again.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Would take again
3.0
4.0
BIO150
Dec 18, 2017
Wouldn't take again

You have to go to lecture since the test material comes from the lecture slides. The tests are hard and you have to study a lot for them. Sometimes the class can get really boring but you just have to push through and put in the effort to do well. Go to office hours to look at past exams to study what you don't know too

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests are tough
5.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: A
Dec 20, 2017
Would take again

Literally one of my favorite classes I've taken at JMU. She's so caring and really does know her stuff. I feel like I learned a ton in this class that will help me in future classes. She tells you exactly how to study for her tests, and if you do that you'll be fine.

Tough Grader
Caring
Tests are tough
4.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: A-
Dec 20, 2017
Would take again

Not really sure why learning so much about plants is necessary for Human Health Sciences, but this class was pretty interesting. Pesce is very kind and accessible outside of class. I wish I had gone to office hours earlier in the semester. Tests are straight from powerpoints but questions are extremely specific. Prints powerpoint notes for you.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: B+
Jan 1, 2018
Would take again

She is very, very knowledgeable about the subject matter. Still a new course so trying to get the hang of how they want the course to go. Subject matter can get dull but with effort it's easy to understand and stay on top of. She wants you to be successful.

Gives good feedback
Tests? Not many
Would take again
5.0
3.0
BIO150
Nov 6, 2018
Would take again

Honestly such an incredible professor. Bio is not my best subject but she makes the content easy to understand. She is easily approachable and clearly knows her stuff. Tests are kind of hard and require a good amount of studying, but her TA and office hours are always helpful. Holds review sessions at night before the test - go to those!!

Respected
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 3, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Pesce is awesome! She assigns some quizzes and launchpads, but if you do your readings and go to lectures, they are pretty easy to get an A on. She also does group work and case studies, which really helped when learning tougher topics. She does take attendance based on clicker questions, but going to lecture is super important any way.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
5.0
BIO150
Dec 9, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Pesce is great! I was worried about how much exams would affect my grade, but gives extra assignments that are pretty easy, which can even out you grade a little. If you go to lectures youll do really well. She also will go over exams with you and sometimes gives points back to you! Shes a great teacher and I really enjoyed this class

Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
BIO150
Mar 20, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This class requires more than most major and minor classes I've taken. So far this semester, class has met on two Saturdays. She does do exam review sessions that are helpful. Paid over $184 for the textbook and Launchpad which we haven't used NEAR enough for that expense. In my experience the time I emailed her she did not respond.

3.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 2, 2019
Wouldn't take again

In the class you have case studies that you do with a group and no matter how hard my group tried she still graded tough especially since they were done in one class period. Tests arent bad if you study and listen in lecture. She is a bit disorganized and lecture can get a bit confusing because she confuses herself. Out of class quizzes, use notes!

Group projects
Lecture heavy
5.0
2.0
BIO150
Grade: A
Apr 4, 2019
Would take again

Pesce is incredible, take her if you have the chance! Her tests are extremely fair, she always wants to help students, and she makes seemingly abstract concepts understandable. If you study this class can be an easy A! She has also given me so much amazing career and life advice, she's a prof I'll always have immense respect for!

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
4.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: C
Apr 15, 2019
Would take again

Pesce is really not bad at all. Despite I have a C- in the class currently, thats all because I didnt really try on the exams. This class has a lot of material and if you dont start studying atleast a week or two in advance for exams you may find it hard. Her exams are very fair and easy if you know the material! So study!

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
BIO150
Apr 15, 2019
Would take again

DO THE READINGS! Pesce exams are so much easier if you study in advance and actually do the textbook readings. A lot of people may not know but her lecture slides are just a shorter -less detailed version of the reading so it may seem confusing. Once I started doing the text book readings I understand the material way more :) shes super great.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: C+
Apr 26, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Pesce isn't a bad teacher, but there is no reason to go to class because she reads off the slides and posts them on canvas. Her tests are kind of all over the place so it's hard to know what to study. She's very smart yet would explain things on an elementary level.

Gives good feedback
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
BIO150
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 29, 2019
Would take again

Pesce makes bio 150 super easy and understandable. She is hands down the best professor for it, she makes things super understandable and explains things multiple ways for different learners to understand. She is super nice, very little textbook reading and few clicker questions. 150 is a more in-depth 140L, Pesce makes it super easy.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Caring
2.0
4.0
BIO150
Apr 30, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I had Pesce for Bio 150 lec and I have never taken a lecture harder than this one. She gives group work which is graded so tough, it's hard to get full credit on any of it. Her tests are harder than any other professor it seems, and it shows. Be prepared to put all other classes second and give your entire semester to this one class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: A
May 8, 2019
Would take again

Pesce's lectures are legit interesting compared to some boring science lectures. She is organized and prints the notes out for you to have In class and also posts the slides online. Her tests are easy if you study and or go to pass. Grades tough on in class work with groups but she is super cool.

Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: B-
May 11, 2019
Would take again

sweetest lady I've ever met. She helped me all the time, academically and personally. She's very caring and truly wants her students to succeed. Biology is a difficult class but if you know the material and concepts you'll succeed! take her you wont regret it

Gives good feedback
Caring
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
BIO140L
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2019
Would take again

I enjoyed lab with Dr. Pesce, she was very passionate about biology and a really helpful professor. The lab was structured for us with pre lab quizzes every week and post lab notebook entries. Dr. Pesce is a tough grader, for any big writing assignment make sure you follow the rubric to a T and go to office hours and SWAT for help.

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
BIO140L
Grade: A
Jan 8, 2020
Would take again

Lab isn't difficult, as everything is laid out for you in the packets you print each week, however Dr. Pesce is an extremely tough grader. Make sure you go into office hours and SWAT and follow rubric to a T, because she will dock .25pt anywhere she can. I loved seeing her passion for biology as it really translated in the lab.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
3.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 5, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Andrea is a really nice woman and cares about her students but I really dreaded this class. She's looking for her specific answers and that's not learning that's memorizing. I did really well in similar classes yet this was somehow still my lowest grade throughout the semester. She rlly made me hate BIO150, I wish I could've taken someone else.

Lecture heavy
Caring
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
BIO150
Apr 23, 2020
Would take again

I really liked Pesce! She clearly cares about bio and is really great if you go to office hours. Attendance is through clickers or in-class assignments so you can't skip a lot. Tests can be hard but if you pay attention you should be fine.

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
BIO150
May 4, 2020
Would take again

I absolutely love Dr. Pesce. I was recommended to take her by my BIO 140 professor and I am so glad that I did. She is the most caring and wonderful professor whos very passionate about what she teaches and makes the subject very enjoyable. Definitely have to study for her tests but theyre very fair. Take her!

Tough grader
Caring
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
BIO150
Grade: A
May 6, 2020
Would take again

Professor Pesce is one of the most caring and considerate professors. She is always willing to help students in and out class She is very passionate about this material and it reflects in lecture. Her tests can be a bit challenging, just make sure to reason out why wrong answers are wrong. It's a really fair class as long as you put in the work.

Accessible outside class
Caring
4.0
4.0
BIO140L
Grade: A
Dec 22, 2020
Would take again

If you get Pesce for lab, you're in good hands. She's a tough grader but she gives great feedback so you're able to learn from your mistakes and do better next time. Always available to help and wants everyone to succeed. If you stay consistent and ask for help when needed, you'll be able to achieve a good grade to help you out in BIO140 lecture!

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
BIO140
Grade: B+
Apr 18, 2021
Would take again

You can tell she really cares about the material and teaching students. She is a tough grader, but she is very approachable in office hours (not a lot of kids show up in them). She has heavily influenced my writing skills in the best way. ASK QUESTIONS! She will definitely help if you ask.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
BIO140
Apr 20, 2021
Would take again

Amazing teacher and does a great job at explaining concepts. She's tough (I know when you see that you freak out). She's tough because she's picky and the tests are tricky. Advice: read the rubric. A lot of times you'll lose points over something that would have taken 4 minutes to do. Make sure you follow the rubric. Amazing at explaining concepts.

Gives good feedback
Caring
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 21, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Pesce is very nice and approachable. She loves this subject, but beware because her class is solely based on her lectures and her exams are very application based. What made perfect sense in lecture is kicked up 10 notches on the exams. Your grade is mainly based on your exams too. She doesn't use a textbook and has a strict no curve policy.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
BIO150
Apr 25, 2021
Would take again

I enjoyed Pesces class. She was probably also the most understanding professor I have had so far as I was having a tough time outside of school and she did everything she could to help me out. Bio is hard but Andrea is the best! Tests are challenging and application based so make sure you know the material and can apply it.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
3.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: C
Apr 27, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Pesce is one of the nicest professors and is very accessible. Very good professor but tests are very hard and heavily application based. Even if you know the lecture material very well, it is 10x harder on the exams. Studied far in advance for tests and I never got higher than a 70. Be prepared to make this class a huge priority.

Accessible outside class
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
BIO150
Grade: A
May 25, 2021
Would take again

I don't understand why people think her exams are challenging, because showing up to class and studying decently was enough to get good grades in the class. Wonderful professor and extremely kind and knowledgeable. I can't recommend her enough!

Gives good feedback
Respected
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
BIOL140
Grade: B
Dec 13, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Pesce is a great teacher but this lab is way too hard for 1 credit. The exams are beyond impossible. Labs are fun though. Don't miss class!

3.0
3.0
BIO140L
Grade: B
Dec 16, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Professor Pesce will find just about any reason to take points off assignments so I often felt like the effort I put into lab wasn't demonstrated by my grade. I recommend getting her feedback before you turn in ANYTHING. She's very passionate and knowledgeable about biology.

Tough grader
4.0
3.0
BIO140L
Grade: B+
Dec 17, 2021
Would take again

Honestly, a great teacher. Assigns a lot of work, but it's not too hard, just be prepared for class beforehand and you'll do fine. Hard grader, but not ridiculous.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 30, 2022
Would take again

Professor Pesce is amazing! Yes, her exams are difficult and wordy, but she lets you know that in the beginning, so it is not a surprise. I really enjoy the way she lectures. Attendance is taken based on clicker questions in class, but they are not everyday. She is very easy to access outside of class and always willing to help! Take her!

Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
4.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 14, 2022
Would take again

Pesce is such a great professor! Her lectures contain a lot of materials and information, but she's very good at explaining topics. Her tests are tough, but she holds review sessions and is super accessible outside of class. She occasionally takes attendance through clicker questions as well.

Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: B+
Apr 20, 2022
Would take again

Prof Pesce was probably one of the best Bio instructors I have had. She was super nice and explained things very clearly. She also was available a lot outside of class for questions and hosted sessions before each test where she went over all the information. Her tests were a little difficult but if you studied enough you should be fine.

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: B+
Apr 29, 2022
Would take again

Mrs.Pesce is my favorite professor at JMU!! She is incredibly helpful and accessible. Her tests are difficult but fair. She gives lectures in a way that it's like a story and it's easier to follow and understand. She is super willing to help you during office hours or even outside if needed. I can't recommend her enough!!!

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
2.0
4.0
BIO150
Grade: C-
May 3, 2022

I personally recommend you avoid her at all costs. She is very confusing, and sometimes doesnt even know what she's talking about. Her tests are extremely application based, and the multiple choice is filled with all correct answers and you need to know which one is the most correct. This is not the class to take if you are not naturally a genius.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: A
May 3, 2022
Would take again

Pesce is GREAT. She gives out packets with the lecture notes/content every class. Class isn't "mandatory" but like 60% of the time there's clicker questions for attendance. I recommend going to class though, it really helps for exams as she goes over the note packet and explains things in more detail. Exams are MC, matching, and FR, not too hard

3.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: B-
Aug 20, 2022

Great professor; clearly cares about her students. Lectures can be quite boring at times, but overall it's a decent environment.

Participation matters
Respected
4.0
3.0
BIO140L
Grade: A-
Nov 9, 2022
Would take again

Had her for lab and it shows that she really cares about student's mental health. Be sure to pay close attention to grading rubrics as she grades very closely to them.

Participation matters
Group projects
Clear grading criteria
4.0
5.0
BIO140L
Grade: B+
Nov 29, 2022
Would take again

I have really liked her most of the course, but she is a really tough grader. She is competent and knows her stuff, but can come off harsh and unempathetic. It is frustrating to work hard and try my best and receive very harsh comments about mistakes.

Tough grader
4.0
3.0
BIO140L
Grade: C
Nov 30, 2022
Would take again

Andrea Pesce is GREAT she really cares about her students and takes the time to answer questions individually in a respectful manner. Your group though really matters, I got unlucky and had a bad lab group resulting in me doing all of the work; and being stuck with everything on my shoulders. She is great, just pick a good table first class

Participation matters
Group projects
5.0
4.0
BIO140L
Grade: A-
Dec 16, 2022
Would take again

Overall, I absolutely adored Pesce! She was enthusiastic and prepared each lab, and conveyed her subject effectively. However, she is an extremely tough grader. I hate the word "nitpicky" but its really the only way I can describe it. Follow the rubric closely and be percise in your language and you should be fine.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
4.0
3.0
BIO150
Grade: A
Mar 19, 2023
Would take again

I've taken two classes with Dr. Pesce and have enjoyed both. It is a lecture heavy course, and she expects you to be able to apply the material, but if you go to class and pay attention, you will be fine in this class.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

82%

Textbook Required

63%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 44 grades
Most common grades:
A (10)
B (8)
Not sure yet (7)
Grade Distribution
A(11)B(12)C(9)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(12)
Based on 51 reported grades
A: 10
B: 8
Not sure yet: 7
A-: 6
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (16)
Tough grader (14)
Lecture heavy (13)
Accessible outside class (13)
Caring (10)
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Participation matters (7)
Clear grading criteria (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

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Ratings by Course

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5.0

(5)

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5.0

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5.0

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5.0

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Difficulty by Course

BIO114HL

5.0

BIO140

4.0

BIOL140

4.0

BIO140L

3.5

BIO150

3.4

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