Biology is a branch of science that deals with living organisms and their vital processes. Biology is the study of life. As a field of science, biology is particularly important as it helps us to understand the living world. 

This is why all RHS freshmen students are required to take biology and there is no better teacher than Mr. Torrey himself! In this Q&A, Mr. Torrey discusses his approach to Biology as “the study of life” and reflects on his ways of teaching the subject. 

Q : What classes do you teach?

A : I teach freshman Biology!

Q: Where did you attend college/what did you study?

A: I attended Morehouse college in Atlanta, Georgia. There, I studied Chemistry, Math and the Spanish language. 

Q: Did you grow up liking/ or being good at bio or science in general ?

A: No, I was a terrible student! In high school, I was a B- student. 

Q: Why did you choose to teach at Revere High School (RHS) ?

A: I was teaching in Boston Public Schools, and I was living in Revere. So, I applied to teach here because it’s closer to me. 

Q: What do you think of Revere High School (RHS) ?

A: This is my 4th year here, I’ve seen a lot of changes around here. Some for better, some for worse. I try to associate with people who do the best for the students. 

Q: What is your favorite moment about teaching?

A: My favorite thing about teaching is when students seem like they have an enjoyable time learning. 

Q: When you are frustrated, what do you do?

A: I listen to music.I’m really into instrumental funk/soul right now but i’ll listen to just about anything

Q: How do you keep students engaged?

A: I try to have a balance between content and personal things. I try to connect with students and teach not only biology, but life in general. I also did circle time where students stand up behind their seats and gather in a circle to talk about their life or whatever sparks their interest. 

Q: What’s your advice to students who struggle with biology?

A: I’d ask, are you physically present in class? Are you following along with class? Use other resources like google?  Learning is a process you won’t get it the first time.

Q: Has a student’s experience with biology affected you or changed your view/method of teaching? 

A: No. Teaching is a practice. Content is content. Teaching is the practice. There hasn’t been a student who’s broken me yet, but I’ve broken a few students