BIO 106 Introduction to Biology II – Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Biology II: Scope and Structure

This course, BIO 106 Introduction to Biology II, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the foundational concepts in evolutionary biology, organismal diversity, and ecology. The course integrates lectures, laboratory experiences, and active learning strategies to foster mastery of biological principles and scientific inquiry.

• Units Covered: Nature of Science, Evolutionary Theory, Diversity of Life, Ecology of Life

• Lecture: 3 hours per week

• Laboratory: 3 hours per week (inquiry-based, research-driven)

• Textbook: Campbell Biology, 12th Edition (Reece et al., 2020)

Major Course Topics and Alignment with Biology Curriculum

Unit 1: Evolutionary Biology

• Descent with Modification (Chp. 22)

• Evolution of Populations (Chp. 23)

• Origin of Species & Speciation (Chp. 24)

• Phylogeny (Chp. 26)

• Viruses (Chp. 19)

Key Concepts:

• Mechanisms of evolution (natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, mutation)

• Speciation and the formation of new species

• Phylogenetic trees and evolutionary relationships

• Role of viruses in evolution and biology

Unit 2: Diversity of Life

• Prokaryotes: Bacteria & Archaea (Chp. 27)

• Protists (Chp. 28)

• Green Algae & Land Plants (Chp. 29)

• Fungi (Chps. 30 & 31)

• Animals: Invertebrates & Vertebrates (Chps. 33 & 34)

Key Concepts:

• Classification of domains and kingdoms of life

• Major characteristics and evolutionary developments of each kingdom

• Adaptations for life on land (plants, fungi, animals)

• Ecological roles and interactions among organisms

Unit 3: Ecology

• Introduction to Ecology (Chp. 52)

• Population Ecology (Chp. 53)

• Community Ecology (Chp. 54)

• Behavioral Ecology (Chp. 51)

• Ecosystem Ecology (Chp. 55)

• Biodiversity and Conservation Biology (Chp. 56)

Key Concepts:

• Levels of biological organization (organism, population, community, ecosystem, biosphere)

• Population dynamics and regulation

• Species interactions (competition, predation, mutualism, etc.)

• Energy flow and nutrient cycling in ecosystems

• Conservation of biodiversity and human impacts

Course Competencies and Learning Outcomes

Core Competencies

• Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology: Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental concepts and processes.

• Classification: Understand similarities and differences among biological kingdoms and major evolutionary developments.

• Ecological Context: Place organisms within ecological frameworks and explain their roles in ecosystems.

General Education Competencies

• Critical Thinking: Evaluate evidence and reasoning in scientific communication.

• Ethics: Apply ethical principles to scientific and societal issues.

• International Diversity: Understand cultural perspectives in science.

• Information and Technology Literacy: Use electronic resources for research and data analysis.

• Oral and Written Communication: Present and write about scientific topics clearly and effectively.

• Quantitative and Scientific Reasoning: Analyze data, use mathematical concepts, and apply the scientific method.

Specific Learning Outcomes

• Define levels of biological organization (e.g., cell, tissue, organ, organism, population, community, ecosystem, biosphere).

• Outline and apply the steps of the scientific method.

• Relate DNA, genes, and mutation to evolutionary processes.

• Explain scientific evidence for evolution.

• Classify organisms into domains and kingdoms; describe major characteristics of each.

• Diagram and explain ecosystem processes and interspecies interactions.

• Apply ecological principles to human populations and environmental issues.

Course Schedule and Readings

Sample Weekly Topics (Selected Weeks)

Week	Monday	Wednesday	Friday	Readings
1	Course Syllabus, Learning Community Set-up	Basics of Evolution	Quiz 1	Chp. 22
2	Descent with Modification	Descent with Modification	Quiz 2	Chps. 22, 23, 24
3	MLK Day (No class)	Origin of Species	Quiz 3	Chps. 24, 25 (in part)
5	Exam 1: Evolution	Viruses	Quiz 5	Chp. 19
8	Exam 2: Prokaryotes, Protists	Green Algae & Land Plants	Quiz 8	Chp. 29, Chp. 52 (terrestrial biomes)
13	Population Ecology	Community Ecology	Quiz 12	Chps. 53, 54
15	Ecosystem Ecology	Biodiversity & Conservation Biology	Quiz 14	Chps. 55, 56

Additional info: The full schedule includes all major topics in evolution, diversity, and ecology, with readings from Campbell Biology and integration of laboratory modules.

Assessment and Grading Structure

Grading Breakdown

Component	Number	Points Each	Total Points	Weight
Class Exams	4	100	400	33.3%
Final Exam	1	100	100	8.3%
Weekly Quizzes	10 (best of 12)	10	100	8.3%
Learning Support Activities	10 (best of 12)	10	100	8.3%
Professionalism Points	--	--	100	8.3%
Laboratory	See Lab Syllabus	--	200	16.7%
Total			1200	100%

Grading Scale: A+ (97-100), A (93-96), A- (90-92), B+ (87-89), B (83-86), B- (80-82), C+ (77-79), C (73-76), C- (70-72), D+ (67-69), D (63-66), D- (60-62), F (below 60)

Assessment Types and Policies

Exams

• Four in-class exams (cumulative), one cumulative final exam

• Exam questions include multiple choice, matching, short answer, and essay/problem-based items

• Assess factual recall, application, and conceptual understanding

• Strict academic integrity and exam decorum enforced

Quizzes and Learning Support Activities

• Weekly quizzes and activities reinforce key concepts and provide ongoing feedback

• Only the top 10 scores in each category count toward the final grade

• Closed-resource, time-limited, and designed to promote steady study habits

Laboratory

• Mandatory attendance and participation

• Emphasis on scientific thinking, experimental design, data analysis, and communication

• Separate lab syllabus governs lab-specific policies and grading

Professionalism and Participation

• Consistent attendance, punctuality, and active engagement required

• Professional conduct, respectful communication, and responsible use of resources expected

• Points may be awarded or deducted for behaviors that support or disrupt learning

Academic Integrity and Course Policies

Academic Integrity

• Cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, and interference are strictly prohibited

• All major assignments are submitted through Canvas and checked for originality

• Violations result in severe penalties, including zeros, course failure, and possible university action

Use of Generative AI Tools

• Permitted only for limited, transparent support (e.g., brainstorming, grammar checks)

• AI-generated work may not be submitted as original work unless explicitly authorized

• All AI use must be documented and cited according to course guidelines

Inclusivity, Accessibility, and Student Support

Inclusivity Statement

• Commitment to a respectful, equitable, and supportive learning environment

• All students are encouraged to communicate needs and concerns for success

Disability Services

• Accommodations provided for documented disabilities

• Students must provide formal documentation to receive accommodations

Counseling and Wellness

• Confidential counseling services available for personal, emotional, and academic concerns

• Emphasis on self-care, wellness, and proactive support for student success

Student Responsibilities and Success Strategies

• Prepare in advance by reviewing materials and readings

• Take active, organized notes and engage in class discussions

• Study consistently using spaced practice

• Seek feedback and adjust study strategies as needed

• Use office hours and support resources proactively

• Collaborate ethically and maintain academic integrity

• Communicate professionally in all course contexts

Summary Table: Major Topics and Corresponding Chapters

Topic	Campbell Biology Chapter(s)
Evolutionary Theory	22, 23, 24, 25, 26
Viruses	19
Prokaryotes (Bacteria & Archaea)	27
Protists	28
Plants	29, 30
Fungi	31
Animals	33, 34
Ecology (Population, Community, Ecosystem)	51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56

Conclusion

This syllabus outlines a rigorous, comprehensive approach to the study of biology at the college level, emphasizing evolution, diversity, and ecology. Students are expected to engage actively, uphold academic integrity, and utilize available resources to achieve mastery of course content and scientific skills.