2.6

John Downey

Biology - Long Beach City College

2.6
Quality
4.5
Difficulty
31%
Would Retake
120
Reviews
2.6
Quality
4.5
Difficulty
2.4
Helpful
2.7
Clarity

31%

Would Retake

120

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
120 total ratings

5

19

4

24

3

12

2

29

1

36

What Students Say

IF YOU HAVE NEVER TAKEN ANATOMY OR PHYSIOLOGY OR CHEMISTRY OR HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH SCIENCE COURSE'S DO NOT I REPEAT DO NOT TAKE BIO 2 WITH THIS PROFESSOR, HE IS SUPER SUPER SUPER TOUGH , I HAVE A GPA OF 3

BIO2 - 1.0 rating

Hardest teacher I've had, to date

BIOLOGY60 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

94%

Textbook Required

87%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 30 grades
Most common grades:
A (12)
B (6)
C+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(6)C(9)D(3)F(0)A-/B+(2)
Based on 37 reported grades
A: 12
B: 6
C+: 5
Not sure yet: 3
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (16)
Get ready to read (13)
Tough Grader (13)
TEST HEAVY (10)
LECTURE HEAVY (4)
Test heavy (4)
Clear grading criteria (3)
Gives good feedback (3)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.02 avg change
Sep
Dec
Feb
Apr
May
Aug
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

BIOMICR

5.0

(1)

BIOBIO

4.3

(3)

MICR000

4.0

(1)

BIO060

3.5

(4)

BIO21

3.5

(2)
+10 more courses
Difficulty by Course

BIOLOGY60

5.0

BIO61

5.0

BIO

5.0

MICRO101

4.7

BIO60

4.6

Reviews (119)
2.0
5.0
BIO60
Nov 16, 2004

This teacher is very hard. You have a quiz almost every week (10 total). You have 5 exams drop 1 plus the final is comprehensive. 150 questions for each test and 200 quest. for the final. His quizes are written and are worth 25 pts. Overall this teacher is very hard. Not recommended .

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Nov 22, 2004

No Comments

5.0
5.0
BIOLOGY60
Dec 3, 2004

This teacher is hard but very fair. He prepares you well for your quizzes and tests. All the information for quizzes are in the class notes while tests are based primaryly on book readings. Overall, he is a great teacher and person.

3.0
5.0
BIO61
Dec 7, 2004

This teacher is is extremely difficult,more than half of the info for the exams are not in the course instructed book.This course requires about 20hrs. of studing a week.

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 9, 2004

Downey ruined my 4.0 gpa. 1500 flashcards for the first test! CHANGE YOUR MAJOR, TAKE SOMEONE ELSE TAKE A DIFFERENT CLASS JUST DONT TAKE DOWNEY! INFO IS NOT IN THE BOOK! QUIZZES ARE EASY BUT DONT LET THAT TRICK YOU THE TESTS ARE INSANELY HARD!

1.0
5.0
BIO
Dec 21, 2004

a complete jerk....

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Grade: A
Mar 10, 2005

I had him at 8 in the morning, and he always had hard nipples! It was so hard to concentrate. Lectures are BORING! Tests are hard. I think the other comments already explained. I dropped him, I couldn't stand the thin t-shirts and hard nipples any longer.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Apr 1, 2005

Avoid taking this teacher. lectures are very nebulous at best and dont even bother buying the book because his class does not coincide one bit with the book.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
May 9, 2005

THIS TEACHER IS VERY HARD. 10 QUIZZES(4PGS OF NOTES AND HE ONLY USED ABOUT 20 FILL IN QUESTIONS),5 EXAMS AND THE FINAL IS CUMMULATIVE. BECAUSE OF THIS CLASS I RARELY HAD TIME TO STUDY FOR OTHER CLASSES.HES A GOOD PERSON BUT I ADVISE YOU NOT TAKE HIM, I HAD TO DROP.

4.0
3.0
BIO60
Jun 2, 2005

He's fair, but I'm sure there are easier BIO teachers out there.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Jun 6, 2005

he makes you do study questions that do not coincide with the book at all. you have to flip to other chapters your not studying to get the answers. study questions are hard and youll have a hard time doing it. going to the BIO lab was lame some the answers are not even there. makes everything hard. at least have the answers in order

2.0
4.0
BIO41
Grade: A
Aug 24, 2005

Tough. Lectures and homework did not prepare for quizes. Busted my ass for a C.

2.0
4.0
BIO60
Sep 15, 2005

Do not take his classes. It's terrible. Find another classes.

1.0
4.0
BIO2
Oct 14, 2005

Don't take Mr. Downey. When it comes to exam or testing, you really don't know what to look for. Don't take him or else your GPA will really get low. I would not recommwnd him for taking his class.

3.0
5.0
BIO60
Oct 22, 2005

he's a FAIR, TOUGH teacher. so be there for lectures. so u can pass the quizzes all i can say is do the study questions in the packet. and STUDY STUDY STUDY! it will PAY OFF.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Nov 9, 2005

I have done well in school all my life until this class. He said quizzes were based on Lecture but there not, Exams are joke and those study Q's dont help! I work harder and harder thinking it will get better....it doesnt I work so hard never knowing what curve ball he is going to throw. DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Nov 16, 2005

HE IS NOT A VERY HELPFUL TEACHER. HE MAKES THE STUDENTS FEEL STUPID WHEN YOU ASK HIM A QUESTION DURING HIS LECTURE AND DOES NOT ANSWER ANY OF THEM. QUIZZES AND EXAMS IS LIKE HAVING HORMONAL IMBALANCE. THERE IS NO CONSISTENCY ON THE WAY HE GIVES THE TEST. DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASS OR ANY OF THE CLASSES HE TEACH IF YOU WANT TO LEARN & PASS!!!

1.0
5.0
BIOLOGY60
Dec 13, 2005

This dude is an extremely difficult teacher. His lectures are to the tee. If you are even 5 minutes late to his class you are totally lost, and good luck on trying to catch up. You will take about 5 full pages of notes each class and use about a tgatal of 1 page, but you never what info. he will ask. DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!!!

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 13, 2005

No Comments

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 14, 2005

WOW I can't believe this guy is a teacher.Trust every rating here, hes HORRIBLE!he says the book is wrong,and to trust him.If one word is spelled wrong,its points off, this guy is so fussy about EVERYTHING,Im a straight A student,and had to WORK for a C,don'ttake him,doesn't know what he's talking about.FIRE HIM.60 students to start, 15 in the end

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 14, 2005

DEAN..WHY IS HE STILL TEACHING??C'MON!this guy is unbelievable,he would make anyone interested in the nursing program to pick a different career.He almost made me want to not persue my dream of being a nurse THANKS! get rid of this guy,he's not a "teacher" he's only there bc he has control of something then.that's what he's about,conrol.impressive!

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 19, 2005

No Comments

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 20, 2005

STOP NOW. Don't do it.

1.0
5.0
BIO
May 18, 2006

Mr. Downey, does not know how to teach. very unorganize. i don't even know why he became DEAN in life science department. Don't take him. You'll end up dropping this subject or have a grade of D. Look for some other teachers.

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Oct 17, 2006

quizzes are a pain and they do not foolow lecture or book. GOOD LUCK TAKING IT!

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Oct 30, 2006

If you are loking for a good bio teacher choose someone else. He is not clear on his lectures. The tests have nothing to do with the quizzes, lectures, studyguides or the book. I just don't know where he gets his questions from. You buy the book and it's pretty much useless. I barely passed the class and it was no thanks to him.

4.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 16, 2006

He's very difficult but does is a decent lecturer. You will learn a lot from him. His tests are very difficult. He gives lots of quizzes which aren't as difficult but they are still hard. Sometimes you will study the wrong things but they are all derived from lecture. By then end, I was happy to get a C because of how difficult his class was

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 31, 2006

I took Downey's class about 3 semesters ago...and it was a constant struggle. I really studied hard for his class to the point that i was getting real sick. He is very strict on tardiness even if you arrived late for a little over 3 mins. If you're looking to get an A in a class...his class is not the way to go.

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Apr 30, 2007

i will never ever enjoy biology again, he has the most unorganized teaching style, very difficult class to pass. how can you learn something when he doesnt teach it in a way that it could be understood. he says its possible to get an A in his class, I beg to differ.

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Jun 6, 2007

The worst teacher i've ever had. I USED to like Bio not after taking his class.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Jun 7, 2007

HORRIBLE!BEWARE THIS GUY IS ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS HE SHOULD BE TEACHING ENGLISH CLASSES HE CARES MORE ABOUT SPELLING AND THEN WHAT REALLY IS IMPORTANT BIOLOGY. DONT BE LATE HE WILL NOT LET YOU IN HIS CLASS, EXPECT LOTS OF HARD QUIZES THAT HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH WHATS IN THE BOOK GOOD LUCK!

4.0
3.0
BIO60
Jun 8, 2007

mr. downey is a good teacher ! he has to care for spelling because most of the students that taking his class are going to medical field. imagin if they became ur nurses or doctor and they spell the name of ur drugs wrong!

4.0
5.0
BIO60
Jul 9, 2007

Downey is a great teacher. I enjoyed taking this class; learned a lot. Although i do warn you that it is EXTREMELY hard. A lot and a lot of info that you will need to memorize.

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Nov 25, 2007

This is the WORST teacher in the history of teachers!!!!! You are going to have to study so much that you won't have time for anything else, and you'll probably still get a D! His jokes are stupid and he demands waaaay too much from his students. DON'T TAKE HIS CLASS!!!!!!

3.0
5.0
BIO60
Jan 13, 2008

Alot of reading/studying. Miss a day you will be totally lost. Dont be late! He's anal about tardiness/spelling. Listen/write down all the lecture notes & you will have no probs w/the quizzes,its mostly vertabatim.Exams are a different story. This class is extremely frustrating,but overall its doable!Good teacher,but makes it hard 2 enjoy bio.

4.0
5.0
BIO60
Jun 3, 2008

I got an A but it was one of the hardest A's I've ever had to work for. Take good notes for his quizzes and read the chapters for the test. Just stay on top of your reading and study hard before each quiz and test. Don't take this class with another time consuming class. This class will require all of your time and attention.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Nov 4, 2008

This teacher is the hardest don't take him.. His grading is based on quizes & test. quizes are all written worth 25pts & it is based on pure lecture. test are multiple choice & it's 150 pts. test are really hard b/c it's so much info to memorize. I didn't like his class at all. but if u don't believe me try him an u'l see.

4.0
4.0
BIOBIO
Dec 26, 2008

The material is not that hard if you take the time to study. You MUST study, That is because he does not cover test material in his lectures, he expects you to read it and learn it from the book.. All the information is there, so its not like he wants you to do bad. Read the chapters as you go and you will pass... like myself:)

5.0
4.0
BIO060
May 14, 2009

His class is very hard but I did enjoy it I like how he is very clear on what he expects! I would totally take him for all my science classes if he taught them!!

5.0
4.0
BIOBIO
Aug 12, 2009

Mr. Downey is a good teacher in the sense that he knowa what he is talking about. he is very clear and knows what he is talking about. Its not an easy class, you should really take his word on it and write down everything that comes out of his mouth. His grades are based on quizzes and exams. Be prepare to do a lot of memorization.

4.0
3.0
BIO60
Nov 23, 2009

Its not that hard of a class if you study your lecture notes for his quizzes and read the book for the exams. Your notes need to be really good though!! I never really read the book and I managed to complete with a B in the class.

2.0
4.0
MICROBIO2
Dec 1, 2009

His gives A LOT of quizzes and tests. I don't find him very helpful at all... esp during your unknown lab. His tests are unpredictable.. which drives you crazy because they are all matching (in a weird way). If you skip a section to study you are already down 10-20 points!!! I do not recommend him. Take someone else if you can.

4.0
5.0
BIOBIO
Dec 16, 2009

This class is very hard and requires alot of studying and memorization. The exams are based on his study guides and quizzes are all lecture notes. You have to have 90% of study guides done before you can get answers checked. You have to stay ahead of him in order to keep up. If you work full time do not take this class with Mr. Downey.

3.0
5.0
BIO2
Dec 21, 2009

This class is incredibly hard. Do not take this course if you don't have the time and desire needed to learn this information. Tests are very random and you are often tested on information you've never seen before. Quizzes are straightforward memorization. Mr. Downey is nice but not very helpful even if asked a direct question. Avoid if you can.

4.0
5.0
BIO60
Jan 4, 2010

I really liked professor Downey. This class was extremely hard and you will not pass the class if you don't do the study guide provided in the syllubus. I recommend taking anatomy or medical terminology before taking this class. Even though the class was hard I enjoyed it and learned alot. Proffessor was very helpful. Alot of studying req.

3.0
4.0
MICRO101
Jan 11, 2010

Mr.Downey is a nice man but I wish his overviews were a little more organized. He does not like alot of questions to clarify your confusion. His test are not always based on his lectures.

3.0
5.0
BIO60
May 10, 2010

I wouldn't suggest taking him. His lectures aren't clear and quite boring. It's already a hard class and he doesn't make it any easier.

5.0
4.0
BIO2
May 11, 2010

Only teacher who can turn Microbiology into a fun time. Teacher is very helpful, and will explain material to students. Labs are organized and will explain in detail what is needed. Test are like everything else, based on lecture with supplements from the book. If you want to remember diseases for years, take this teachers

2.0
5.0
BIO2
May 14, 2010

Totally type A. This guy should get a life outside of his little microbiology bubble. Lame sense of humor, and as others have mentioned, his tests are on stuff NEVER mentioned before. Very fine details from the book, which is huge. On the up side - he corrects quickly, is on time, quizzes are straight forward. Just be prepared to work a LOT.

3.0
5.0
BIO60
May 20, 2010

Mr. Downey is a good teacher, but his tests and quizes are VERY hard. TIPS: For the quizes study his lecture notes and for the tests DO THE STUDY QUESTIONS!!! Like seriously, if you don't, you will fail. He pulls questions right from the study questions. I got a B in the class and I am not interested at all in Bio. Its all about STUDYING ;)

5.0
4.0
BIO60
May 20, 2010

Professor Downey is not as bad as people make him out to be. He is tuff for your own good. He prepares you for your major. Study the end of each chapters (out of book)4 exams. I passed with a C but took 5 other classes @ same time. I dont recomend that. You can do it. Study the lectures. Study,study,Study. He does not give your grade you earn it.

5.0
5.0
MICROBIO
Jun 23, 2010

Take notes in class and then rewrite them again.End of chapter questions & blue lab sheets, they exactly worded on the quiz & exams. You should run 5-7 tests per meeting for your unknown organism, lots of people fell behind and struggled. The info in the blue lab sheets contain most of the clues to your unknown so review them during the write up.

5.0
4.0
BIO60
Jul 21, 2010

He is completely old school; meaning he lectures and you take notes. I would recommend a recorder for his classes. He gives A LOT of quizzes and exams, but is very generous with bonuses. I enjoyed his class, but it's very tough. I do NOT recommend taking this class during the summer.

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Aug 27, 2010

HARD!!!! plzzz do not take this instructor is he serious about the tests they r 150 questions!! that should say enough about this class very boring and expects alot from u save urself and go with another bio instructor..

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Oct 30, 2010

HARD! He gives up a bulk of questions to study for the exams and expects us to KNOW IT ALL!? Also we had to answers those questions ourselves. The book was useless, don't buy it. You didn't need it for the class. His quizzes are easy. It's all based on his lecture. Take Dr. Gayle! Avoid Downey!

3.0
3.0
BIO60
Nov 11, 2010

definitions on quizes must be answered exactly as he told you.I feel he loosend up on that towards the end.Devote a lot of time in this class.Study guide for the exams are done on your own and include things not discussed in class

2.0
4.0
BIO60
Nov 16, 2010

he is very anal, yes he is an ass. very strict class. 12 quizes and 5 exames. 80% of class will either drop or fail. Very hard class. especially for those first time science students like myself. take 41 instead.

2.0
5.0
BIO60
Nov 20, 2010

if you dont know anything about BIO do not take him but if u have already taken Anatomy or other bio classes then highly recommended. He doesnt prepare u for the exams just the quizzes. For the quizzes u have to write exactly how he said during the lecture. Spelling counts. if ur going to take him spend at least 6-10 hours study ur own.

4.0
4.0
MICR000
Jan 4, 2011

Okay, so Downey is a great teacher, the subject itself is very complex, a lot of memorization and studying involved, take this class if you have some time to dedicate to it. Ace the lab quizzes by memorizing the reading material on each specific lab and ace the lecture quizzes by being present!! Don't miss class!

3.0
5.0
BIO60
Jan 13, 2011

Mr. Downey is both challenging and very anal. You have to know almost everything in order to get good grades on the quizzes and tests. His study guides for each of the exams are about 30-40 pages each. Be prepared to study your butt off like crazy.

5.0
3.0
BIO60
Feb 3, 2011

He is really helpful and he tries to help you anyway he can so you can pass.. He's also pretty funny and very nice.. Bio is tough anyway so I don't feel like he makes it difficult it's just the way the class is ..you do need to have lots of time to study though because the class moves pretty fast

5.0
3.0
BIO60
Feb 6, 2011

If you're taking Bio 60 you're going into the health field. Downey IS particular with what he expects from students and his class is a challenge. But he lets you know what he wants, no surprises here. It's not meant to be easy. I'd rather have Downey as a neurosurgeon than a hot easy teacher anyday. Highly challenging, highly recommended.

2.0
5.0
BIO2
Feb 8, 2011

This class was very interesting, Mr. Downey is hard but do-able. Read the chapter cautiously because he picks up the little details for the exam. Exams are hard, lab quizzes are very easy. Study! do your experiments right to help you with the unknown, I got an A in this class. I think 1 other got an A. He gives extra credit in quizzes/exams.

2.0
3.0
MICROBIO
May 20, 2011

You have to study and memorize the little details. Lab quiz, lecture quiz, lecture exams & a lab exam at the end of the semester. The only difficult part is note taking because he barely puts things on the overhead and his lectures are more verbal than on print so you have to write down everything he says so pay attention. He is hard!

1.0
5.0
BIO2
Aug 25, 2011

His Micro lectures are very,very, very vague and not helpful for the exams. I do not like when a professor?s lectures are 2 slides and 5 definition but the exam is the whole chapter. read the book without having any idea what exactly is going to be on the exams .

2.0
5.0
MICROBIO
Dec 14, 2011

Mr. Downey's microbiology class is EXTREMELY difficult and requires a lot of effort. There is no easy A, B, or C in this class. Quiz every class meeting. Lab quizzes straight from blue sheet. take good notes in lecture because lecture quiz is straight from there. no study guides or hints on the exam. just have to pray you studied the right material

4.0
4.0
BIO2
Jan 10, 2012

Downey is an animated funny guy which makes it easier to sit through lecture. Getting an A is possible but with a lot of hard work and studying (much of which is self-taught, especially when preparing for exams) DO NOT rely on just your lecture notes for exams, they could cover minute details from the chapter. Class is more demanding than necessary

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Oct 14, 2012

Mr. Downey's class confused me. He places questions on the study guide to which the answer is not found in the book nor notes. He ALWAYS speeds through lectures. He's one of those teachers who test you on what you DON'T learn.

2.0
5.0
BIO2
Nov 20, 2012

This class is VERY difficult. He lectures off his own notes on an overhead. The only clue to any quiz or exam is from the blue lab sheets he gives you, so as long as you study those you're good for the lab quizzes. As far as lecture, you're better off teaching yourself from the book and pray that you remember everything. No study guides or hints given AT ALL. Take Arias, all my friends took her. She explains everything and gives you study guides.

5.0
4.0
BIOMICR
Dec 13, 2012

I don't know why this teacher gets such a bad wrap. He's a great teacher although it's a hard subject. If you study and do the blue lab sheets you'll do fine on the lab quizzes. Lecture quizzes are directly from his lectures.. take good notes. Exams are from the text book. Its a hard subject and a lot of studying is required.

4.0
5.0
BIO21
Feb 25, 2013

Challenging. Stop crying and study. Got an "A" in his class. It is doable.

1.0
5.0
BIOLOGY2
May 11, 2013

The secret to passing his class is to know the following: lab quizzes are based on his hand outs, lecture quizzes are on his actual lecture, and exams are the book. The man loves to ask in depth questions on topic he skims over. I think the worst part were questions that you had to "mark all that apply". Get ready to study!!!

5.0
4.0
BIO2
Jun 3, 2013

Downey is a great teacher and very knowledgable. He covers a ton of material though and if you aren't studying and keeping up on your blue sheets then good luck! I got an A, just pay attention and take good notes its definitely doable. Very nice guy, and a fun class if you apply yourself.

4.0
4.0
BIO60
Jun 12, 2013

He is a very hard professor. He expects lot from his students, so STUDY STUDY STUDY. There are 5 exams, consisting of 150 questions each. There are 10 quizzes and the final has 200 questions and it is comprehensive.He will drop your lowest scoring exam and 2 of your lowest scoring quizzes. YOU HAVE TO ATTEND EVERY CLASS!!!

4.0
4.0
BIO2
Jul 17, 2013

This class is very challenging. I & 1 other person got an A.You must read through the chapters on your own, exams are on chs & on lecture notes! He is more than fair & drops a quiz from lecture & lab as well as an exam.Loved his class..was interesting & he's nice & pretty funny. Just stay on top of reading & STUDY!only take 1 other class if poss

1.0
5.0
BIO60
Oct 29, 2013

JUST TERRIBLE TERRRIBLE TERRIBLE. Plz don't take his class if u are full time student. Just don't do it. He's funny and all but too strict. No drinks no cell phones in class. No opening notes while others are testing. Tests are 150 questions. Quizzes are just ridiculous. Ugh

5.0
5.0
BIO60
Dec 19, 2013

Lots of work, attendance and note-taking are paramount. Flashcards were VERY helpful. Plenty of questions on the exams pertained to topics covered in the textbook and only briefly touched upon in the lecture. My inconsistent effort got me a C, but an A is within reach to those who put it high on the priority list.

1.0
5.0
BIO2
Dec 23, 2013

Take him just if you don't have any other choice.

4.0
4.0
BIO2
Jan 25, 2014

Downey has very high standards and loves the small details. He can be nitpicky when it comes to grading, but he's more than fair when it comes to your final grade. Getting an A is possible, but there is a lot of work involved. Read the text, answer the chapter questions, do the blue sheets, and study! Honestly, you get what you put into it.

5.0
5.0
BIO60
Grade: A
Jun 24, 2014

Flash cards will be your saving grace in a Downey class. He expects a lot from his students, but an A is possible. He's always on time and teaches in a way that is very easy to understand, so long as you are paying attention.

4.0
4.0
BIO60
Dec 3, 2014

FLASH CARDS! He expects a lot from students but just read through the study packet religiously and you will do fairly decent. Doesn't grade on a curve, but throws an extra 15 points on exams. Quizzes were hard if you didn't review lecture notes. Come to class, his syllabus says if you're gone more than 5 classes he will just give you an F.

4.0
4.0
BIO60
Grade: B
Dec 16, 2014

It's a good class, I hear he's one of the tougher professors teaching it though. If you're willing to put in the work you can get an A, if not you fall behind quick. Also if you take him pay attention to everything he says, if he says something will be on a quiztest it will me a majority of it.

2.0
5.0
BIOLOGY60
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 27, 2015

Hardest teacher I've had, to date. He makes the tests unnecessarily difficult. 150 questions per exam. I contemplated talking to the Dean regarding this matter. He gives study guides which is a positive. But his answers are different from the book. If I didn't need this class by next semester I would've dropped it like the other 90% of the class.

4.0
5.0
BIO2
May 12, 2015

Overall he is a great teacher. You want to take anatomy and chem before micro bio. He really expects you to know the book for tests. You will have 8 lab quizzes, 6 lecture quizzes, and 4 lecture exams. Lecture exam is based entirely on the book. Overall he is clear with lecture, answers questions clearly, helpful, and funny. Great class for nurses!

4.0
4.0
BIO2
Grade: B+
Jul 8, 2015

It's definitely a tough course, just like any other science class. The quizzes he assigns are solely based off of his lecture notes and they're written answers as opposed to multiple choice. If he says somethings going to be a quiz, he means it. A lot of the questions on the exams were "mark all that apply" so study hard! Above all, its doable.

5.0
3.0
BIO60
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 31, 2015

Taking his class right now. Not hard, but challenging. Quizzes are EXACTLY what's on lecture. I study my notes the night before or the morning of and my lowest quiz score is a B. The sucky thing is that the exams require lots of independent work. They're based off the study packets which are not mandatory, BUT I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU DO THEM :)

1.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Mar 30, 2016

IF YOU HAVE NEVER TAKEN ANATOMY OR PHYSIOLOGY OR CHEMISTRY OR HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH SCIENCE COURSE'S DO NOT I REPEAT DO NOT TAKE BIO 2 WITH THIS PROFESSOR, HE IS SUPER SUPER SUPER TOUGH , I HAVE A GPA OF 3.50 AND HAD TO WITHDRAWAL FROM HIS CLASS BECAUSE HIS GRADE WOULD OF RUINED MY GPA AND CHANCES INTO GETTING INTO THE R.N PROGRAM

4.0
4.0
BIO2
Grade: A
Jun 17, 2016
Would take again

Pay attention to lectures cuz it's on the weekly quizzes. Do blue sheets for lab quiz. Expert tip: Keep track of the questions after each quiz cuz he uses the same questions on the lab final. The only thing hard about the class were the actual tests. That's when you actually need the textbook.

4.0
4.0
BIO2
Grade: A
Jun 17, 2016
Would take again

Pay attention to lectures cuz it's on the weekly quizzes. Do blue sheets for lab quiz. Expert tip: Keep track of the questions after each quiz cuz he uses the same questions on the lab final. The only thing hard about the class were the actual tests. That's when you actually need the textbook. He's very generous with extra points on the tests.

3.0
3.0
BIO21
Grade: C+
Jul 25, 2016
Would take again

Took this course my first year and it was not too bad. While he is not the best professor, he is also not the worst. Be prepared to study on your own and not have him hold your hand.

5.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: B
Dec 13, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Professor Downey is not a hand holder and can also be really tricky with his tests. Here's how to pass: 1. Study everyday 2. Study more on the subjects he gives you notes on 3. Your blue sheets are your life line for labs! He is a hard professor but he's reasonable. He gives a little extra credit here and there but you must study!!

5.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: B
Dec 14, 2016
Would take again

Professor Downey is going to make you work for your grade! For the first 2 1/2 months there will be quizzes (lab & lecture) every time you go to class. There will be 4 exams, 8 lab quizzes, 6 lecture quizzes, one Unknown Journal, Lab Final, and Lecture Final. Prepare to STUDY!!! He is a very nice, organized, helpful prof. Just be ready to work!!

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BIO2
Grade: A
Jan 3, 2017
Would take again

Professor Downey has been one of my favorite professors thus far in my education. He's very organized, funny, and takes Microbiology seriously, and expects his students too, as well. The material is tough, not going to lie, but if you put in the man hours of studying and go to class each meeting then you'll be just fine.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BIO2
Grade: C+
Jan 25, 2017
Would take again

Downey was fantastic. Drops lowest quiz and exam. Final is mostly big sections from exams. Study study study. You get what you put into it. He's entertaining and wants students to do well. He gives some extra credit. SI was helpful when I was able to attend. I would take him again.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Inspirational
2.0
4.0
BIO60
Grade: C+
Mar 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

An Animated figure playing a recorded tape over in his head year after year. He does not care what you know,only what dribbles from his recording. Go off the beaten path; I.e. Atrioventricular valves instead of bicuspid valves when explaining Lub Dub. And Your wrong! Does not matter what the book says. Only what he said. Very wrong!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 24, 2017
Wouldn't take again

As everyone knows, this is a one of the major prereqs for the nursing programs. Everyone strives for an A in this class, he knows this and makes this class unnecessarily hard. I've taken difficult classes in the past, so don't assume I'm mad because I'm lazy or not willing to put in the effort. He isn't helpful in anyway. Avoid taking him.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
MICRO101
Grade: Not sure yet
May 9, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This class is extremely difficult. He does not discuss the exams/quizzes in class or provide any study guides. Your only structure of what is expected is the syllabus. He is a very hard grader, exam/quiz heavy. He asks questions on the exam he never taught in class. He isn't approachable or helpful. Don't take him unless you can teach yourself.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
MICRO101
Grade: C+
May 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Everyone in class feels so lost. Helpful tips: Make sure you do the blue lab sheets they will help with Lab quizzes. Reread your notes for lecture quizzes. His exams are extremely tough because he doesn't prepare you for the exam/tell you what to focus on. You are teaching yourself, he is not helpful either. Avoid him as best as you can.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: B
Jun 12, 2017
Wouldn't take again

DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR!!! HE IS NOT FLEXIBLE, NOT RECEPTIVE TO QUESTIONS AT ALL. DOES NOT LECTURE FOR EXAMS. BEWARE: HE CLAIMS THAT THE ONLINE MATERIAL IS IMPORTANT... IT IS NOT!!!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: A
Jun 20, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He should be your VERY last choice. No PowerPoint presentation, no study guides. Notes are dictated, if you miss something you can make him repeat it, but it soon becomes annoying for the class. Your best bet is to pair with at least two other people to compare notes before any quiz or exam. Quizzes are from notes; exams from online and notes.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
5.0
BIO60
Jun 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Never have I been so disappointed. Studied all of my lecture notes and none of it was on the test. Make sure you read and study what's in the book! Even if he doesn't emphasize how important it is (which he never does) he lectures off the top of his head so don't miss a class or you else you miss everything. I wouldn't take him again. Confusing!

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
BIOLOGY2
Grade: A
Jun 29, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I got an A and still didn't have fun in this class. If you don't write down HIS definition on the test, he will mark you wrong even though you may be correct. Make sure to read the text book. I would have loved to be taught the amount of material we were tasted on but had to teach myself.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Sep 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

VERY DIFFICULT CLASS, EVERY WEEK WE HAD MINIMUM 1 EXAM, BUT MOST OF THE TIME WE HAD 2 EXAMS. NO ENOUGH TIME TO STUDY

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: A
Nov 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This was the hardest teacher Ive had to deal with. He has passion for subject, but wields it like a weapon. Lectures and tests do NOT coincide, making test material a guessing game. He does not specify topics to focus on in the book, and instead you are forced to read EVERYTHING in fear it may end up on a test. Most miserable 4 months of effort.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO60
Grade: C
Nov 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Professor does not post the course on canvas. Lectures are very old school with a basic outline of his syllabus explaining what parts and their functions are. No powerpoints for us to go back to. You must take notes on what he says in class then go back to the textbook to learn the most you can. He drops your lowest test and quiz so that helps.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO60
Grade: C
Dec 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This class is insanely difficult the whole class is lecture with no powerpoint and he does not write down the definitions He doesn't take attendance but if you miss you wont pass. The tests are 150 multiple choice questions that are not about the lecture, and the final is 200 questions cumulative. You have to read the whole book if you want to pass

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
Tests are tough
3.0
3.0
MICROBIO2
Grade: C+
May 11, 2018
Would take again

This class is only hard with little effort. Grades on quizzes, exams, 1 project. TIPS: Do blue sheets correctly & MEMORIZE word 4 word for quizzes. Don't be lazy on lab journals be detailed do it right will help with project. Take good notes on whats on board and what he says (don't memorize, understand it), read things you don't understand.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
5.0
BIO060
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2018
Would take again

Enjoyed class lectures. Quizzes are open ended written answers (25pts. ea. x 10: drop 2 lowest). Memorize ALL terms from lectures. Exams are tough (150 pts. ea. x 5: drop 1 lowest). Study the blue study sheets before every exam (Memorize 3-5 pgs/day) & continue to review after exams to help you for the final. Do not wait until the last minute!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
BIO60
Grade: B
Dec 18, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Do not procrastinate. The study guides cover well over 400 terms and questions which may or may not be on the 150 question exams. Use quizlet as a study tool, and read the book. Read the chapter reviews before reading the chapters, so that it helps you memorize key concepts. Retain the material for the final exam! He drops 2 quizzes and one exam.

Gives good feedback
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO060
Apr 19, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Do yourself a favor and DO NOT take biology with him. He is a great person but does nothing to help. Out of all of the times I asked a question I never got a solid answer or response. Exams are heavy! I did better reading the textbook on my own.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
BIO60
Grade: A+
Jun 6, 2019
Would take again

Great professor, very knowledgeable and funny. Quizzes consist of lecture, Exams consist of book material. If you start early on the blue sheets that come with your course packet, you will be on track. It does help if you have taken other science classes before. Like everybody else says, if you plan on putting no effort in this class, just drop it

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
MICROBIO2
Grade: C
Jul 12, 2019
Wouldn't take again

If you love bio and don't have a job this is the perfect prof for you. He takes attendance, his lectures are on hard to read transparencies on an overhead projector and he doesn't post anything on canvas. You will not know your overall grade until the final. If you meet him for office hours he'll tell you to read the book. He doesn't do technology.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
MICROBIO2
Grade: B+
Aug 27, 2019
Wouldn't take again

So unless you're willing to give up your entire life for 16 weeks I highly recommend not taking this teacher. Apart from not giving you any guidance he is very old school and teaches off of a projector. I enjoyed how organized he was and he does give you back your test and quiz scores the next class. But still it wasn't worth the level of stress.

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
4.0
BIO2
Grade: A
Sep 20, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Worst professor Ive ever had in college. I shouldve listened to these reviews and didnt take him. The lecture is mainly him verbally saying stuff that you have to know WORD PER WORD. Otherwise, its marked wrong. He doesnt allow laptops or technology. Doesnt answer questions. Doesnt teach. Rude. Take this class with a better professor.

Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO2
Dec 11, 2019
Wouldn't take again

If you have the following you should not take this class: 1. Job 2. Family 3. Another class 4. Life outside of school 5. the will to live he doesn't give any guidelines on what to study, just "read the textbook" he says One of the worst teachers I've ever taken. Lab is okay because he gives blue sheets to study, but read the whole book for exams

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO2
Grade: Rather not say
Feb 17, 2020
Wouldn't take again

WORST PROFESSOR IVE EVER TAKEN Its laughable to call him an educator.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
BIO060
Grade: B
Apr 23, 2020
Would take again

I took this class in Fall 2019. I struggled for the first half of the class, but did very well in the second half and was able to pull my grade up to a B! There are a lot of points-which is helpful for the student. The blue sheets study guide required for the class are helpful and will ensure a good grade if you use/study them!

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
BIO60
Grade: C-
May 28, 2020
Wouldn't take again

He's super old school. If you are a kinesthetic or visual learner this professor is not for you. Weekly quizzes and gives no extra credit. Very straight forward doesn't care about what you have going on. Don't be late and never miss a class or he will fail you. Also a lot of his blue sheets are his views in biology not book related so be mindful.

Lecture heavy
2.0
3.0
BIO2
Grade: A
Aug 29, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Definitions had to be memorized word-for-word and explanations were minimal, and he had no online materials. He only started using canvas because of the covid situation and provided little-to-no-notes, so we had to teach ourselves for the most part. Not sure if anything has changed but not the best experience in the this class.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

94%

Textbook Required

87%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 30 grades
Most common grades:
A (12)
B (6)
C+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(6)C(9)D(3)F(0)A-/B+(2)
Based on 37 reported grades
A: 12
B: 6
C+: 5
Not sure yet: 3
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (16)
Get ready to read (13)
Tough Grader (13)
TEST HEAVY (10)
LECTURE HEAVY (4)
Test heavy (4)
Clear grading criteria (3)
Gives good feedback (3)
Rating Trend

Stable

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Ratings by Course

BIOMICR

5.0

(1)

BIOBIO

4.3

(3)

MICR000

4.0

(1)

BIO060

3.5

(4)

BIO21

3.5

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Difficulty by Course

BIOLOGY60

5.0

BIO61

5.0

BIO

5.0

MICRO101

4.7

BIO60

4.6

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