Holly McTernan
Data based on 5 reviews.
What kind of test questions does this teacher use most often (choose one):
Multiple ChoiceIs the teacher available for extra help during study halls, lunchtime, before or after school, etc.?
Almost AlwaysThe teacher responds to emails promptly. Do you...
Strongly AgreeThe teacher posts in-class materials online for reference (slides, etc.):
Almost AlwaysThe teacher lets us know at the beginning of the course and along the way how much each part of the class (homework, papers, quizzes and tests) counts towards our total grade:
Strongly AgreeHow much homework does this teacher assign?
Way too muchThe amount of writing required in this class is:
Very HighThe teacher allows us to use technology in class (e.g. laptop, calculator, smart pen, etc.)
Almost AlwaysHow much memorization is required to do well in this teacher’s course?
Very HighWhat advice would you give yourself if you were just starting the class now?
Class of 2021
Advice I give would be to write down everything, and write it well. So much of the classes are remembering formulas and knowing all the steps to get to the goal. There are some of problems that are unfamiliar but if you know the material that's been taught its easy to understand. See the notes as something fun or interesting to understand rather than monotonous work and the whole class become so much more fun. Don't forget your comp book and four color pen, you need it.
Class of 2021
If you can just keep up to date on the content, you will do good. This may mean some extra review after learning something, or studying for tests. You will learn a lot in this class, and it is a lot of fun if you participate and try. It's pretty hands on and the labs are really cool. Make sure to stay organized with your notes, because this is a skill you will need for the rest of your life.
Class of 2021
The key to this class is to always keep up on homework. The homework is given well before the due date time, so take advantage of it! If you have more time to do the work, your work will turn out better, leading you to a better grade but more importantly a better experience in Physics.
Class of 2021
Mrs. McTernan is one of the best teachers I have ever had. Unlike other teachers, she provides a course where she actually teaches. The class is very engaging, and never about reading packets or doing unnecessary busy work. Through fun/interesting experiments (in-person and virtual), I am glad to say I have found interest in to the world of physics. As long as you are actively engaged and willing to learn, you will do great (grade wise. ) All test material is viewed and worked with in class, no obscure questions that she wouldn't have prepared you for. I would recommend this class to everyone.
Additional Comments
Class of 2021
I had the same science teacher for two years in a row before Ms. McTernan and I expected her class to be the same tedious work but it was so much more with hands on labs, easy ways at conveying the information, and she didn't give up on you and made sure you understand. As as student you can tell she enjoyed the subject she taught and that makes the whole class have more fun.
Class of 2021
Ms. McTernan is easily one of my favorite teachers ever. She cares about her class a lot and puts in a lot of time and effort. She will help you with anything you have questions on, as long as you put forth an effort too. She is almost always available during community period and after school. She also makes sure to teach the content thoroughly and puts out many resources to help everyone learn.
Class of 2021
Ms. McTernan is always there for help, whether that is in office hours, after or before school, or in Eagle Study, so take advantage of that help! Nobody wants to fail you, especially not her, so don't go into the class with a negative attitude, no matter what you have heard from previous years. There are tons of interesting and cool experiments you do that keep the class engaged, so have fun and keep a positive attitude!