BackBIO 100: Introduction to Biology – Course Syllabus and Structure
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Course Overview
Introduction to Biology (BIO 100)
This course provides a foundational introduction to general biology, focusing on essential concepts and principles relevant to living organisms. It is designed for students seeking a broad understanding of biological sciences without laboratory work.
Credit Hours: 4
Term: Summer 2026
Instructor: Yajuan Zeng
Required Textbook: Campbell Essential Biology, 7e, Pearson Publishing
Course Objectives
Learning Goals
Upon successful completion, students will:
Gain an understanding of general biology.
Demonstrate basic knowledge in chemistry, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
Instructional Methodology
Guided Instruction
The course utilizes guided instruction, with the instructor presenting material and answering questions. Students are expected to read, listen, and take notes. Formative assessments are used to check for understanding.
Assessment Methods & Grading Policy
Evaluation Structure
Five Exams: 55% total
Final Exam: 15%
Chapter Quizzes: 15%
Chapter Mastering Assignments: 15%
Students must achieve an overall average of 69.5 to pass. The lowest lecture grade may be replaced by the Final Exam score. No make-up exams or assignment extensions are allowed.
Grade | Percentage Range |
|---|---|
A | 100 – 89.5 |
B | 89.4 – 79.5 |
C | 79.4 – 69.5 |
D | 69.4 – 59.5 |
F | Below 59.4 |
Topical Outline and Class Schedule
Weekly Topics
The course covers the following chapters, which align with core biology concepts:
Week 1: Chapter 1: Learning About Life; Chapter 2: Essential Chemistry for Biology
Week 2: Chapter 3: The Molecules of Life; Chapter 4: A Tour of the Cell
Week 3: Chapter 5: The Working Cell
Week 4: Chapter 6: Cellular Respiration; Chapter 7: Photosynthesis
Week 5: Chapter 8: Cellular Reproduction
Week 6: Chapter 9: Patterns of Inheritance; Chapter 10: Structure and Function of DNA
Week 7: Chapter 13: How Populations Evolve
Week 8: Chapter 14: How Biological Diversity Evolves
Week 9: Chapter 18: Introduction to Ecology and Biosphere; Chapter 20: Communities and Ecosystems
Week 10: Exams and Final Review
Assignments include quizzes, mastering assignments, and exams for each chapter.
Course Policies
Attendance and Withdrawal
Students must participate weekly in academic activities.
Absence or lack of participation in more than 10% of the course may result in withdrawal or failing grade.
Withdrawal must occur before the deadline to avoid an "F" grade.
Academic Integrity
Cheating, plagiarism, and falsification of information are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.
All cases of academic dishonesty are documented and may result in course failure or further sanctions.
AI Policy
AI tools may be used for grammar improvement and as learning assistants, only when permitted by assignment instructions.
Direct content creation using AI is not allowed unless specified.
Proper citation and disclosure are required when using AI tools.
Support Services
Tutoring is available 24/7 via Tutor.com for biology, writing, and student success.
Disability accommodations are provided upon request and remain confidential.
Pregnant or parenting students are entitled to accommodations under Title IX.
Sexual Misconduct and Mandatory Reporting
FDTC prohibits discrimination and sexual misconduct; support and reporting resources are available.
Instructors are mandatory reporters for incidents of sexual misconduct.
Course Schedule Table
Week | Chapters/Topics | Assignments/Exams |
|---|---|---|
1 | Ch. 1, Ch. 2 | Syllabus, Honorlock Agreement, Mastering Assignments, Quizzes |
2 | Ch. 3, Ch. 4 | Mastering Assignments, Quizzes |
3 | Ch. 5 | Mastering Assignment, Quiz, Exam 1 (Ch. 1-4) |
4 | Ch. 6, Ch. 7 | Mastering Assignments, Quizzes |
5 | Ch. 8 | Mastering Assignment, Quiz, Exam 2 (Ch. 5-7) |
6 | Ch. 9, Ch. 10 | Mastering Assignment, Quiz |
7 | Ch. 13 | Mastering Assignment, Quiz, Exam 3 (Ch. 8-10) |
8 | Ch. 14 | Mastering Assignment, Quiz |
9 | Ch. 18, Ch. 20 | Mastering Assignments, Quizzes |
10 | Review/Exams | Exam 4 (Ch. 13-14), Final Exam (all chapters) |
Additional Information
Schedule changes may occur; students will be notified in advance.
Signed statement of understanding required for course participation.
