Syllabus Overview: Human Biology & Biochemistry (BIO 1511)

Course Overview

This course, Human Biology & Biochemistry, provides a foundational understanding of biology at the molecular and cellular levels, with a focus on human systems. It covers the chemistry of living things, cell structure and function, and the integration of these concepts into organ systems and overall human biology.

Main Learning Objectives

• Biological Literacy: Develop an understanding of biological concepts and terminology, focusing on human biology and biochemistry.

• Scientific Inquiry: Learn to apply the scientific method and critical thinking to biological questions.

• Integration of Concepts: Connect molecular and cellular processes to the function of tissues, organs, and organ systems in humans.

Key Topics Covered

• Human Biology, Science, and Society (Ch. 1)

• The Chemistry of Living Things (Ch. 2)

• Structure and Function of Cells (Ch. 3)

• From Cells to Organ Systems (Ch. 4)

• The Skeletal System (Ch. 5)

• The Muscular System (Ch. 6)

• The Immune System and Mechanisms of Defense (Ch. 9)

• The Respiratory System: Exchange of Gases (Ch. 10)

• The Endocrine System (Ch. 13)

• The Digestive System and Nutrition (Ch. 14)

• The Urinary System (Ch. 15)

Course Structure and Assessment

• Quizzes: Weekly quizzes on Blackboard and Mastering Biology (25% each).

• Midterm Exam: Covers material from the first half of the course (25%).

• Final Exam: Cumulative, with emphasis on later chapters (25%).

Weekly Content Progression

Week	Topic	Readings/Tasks
Jan 5-11	Human Biology, Science and Society	Ch. 1, Quiz
Jan 12-18	The Chemistry of Living Things	Ch. 2, Quiz
Jan 19-25	Structure and Function of Cells	Ch. 3, Quiz
Jan 26-Feb 1	From Cells to Organ Systems	Ch. 4, Quiz
Feb 2-8	The Skeletal System	Ch. 5, Quiz
Feb 9-15	The Muscular System	Ch. 6, Quiz
Feb 23-29	The Immune System and Mechanisms of Defense	Ch. 9, Quiz
Mar 2-8	The Respiratory System: Exchange of Gases	Ch. 10, Quiz
Mar 9-15	The Endocrine System	Ch. 13, Quiz
Mar 16-22	The Digestive System and Nutrition	Ch. 14, Quiz
Mar 23-29	The Urinary System	Ch. 15, Quiz

Study Strategies

• Read the textbook chapters and complete online assignments weekly.

• Label and study diagrams to reinforce anatomical and physiological concepts.

• Review lecture notes and participate in online discussions for clarification.

• Utilize Mastering Biology for interactive learning and practice questions.

Academic Integrity and Exam Policies

• Strict adherence to academic honesty is required; plagiarism and cheating are not tolerated.

• Exams are proctored using LockDown Browser with Monitor and may include screen recordings.

• Final exam is cumulative, with a focus on later chapters.

Required Textbook

• Human Biology: Concepts and Current Issues by Michael D. Johnson (with Mastering Biology access).

Contact and Support

• Instructor office hours and email support are available for student questions.

• Technical support for online platforms is provided through Pearson and the university IT services.

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, assessment, and weekly topics, aligning closely with standard Anatomy & Physiology curricula. Students are encouraged to follow the suggested study strategies and utilize all available resources for success.