BIO 110 – General Biology I: Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Introduction

Overview of General Biology I

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of biology, focusing on the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. It is designed for students majoring in biology and related sciences, covering foundational concepts and preparing students for advanced study.

• Lecture and Laboratory: The course consists of both lecture and laboratory components, emphasizing hands-on and theoretical understanding.

• Major Themes: Evolution, structure and function, genetics, cellular processes, and ecology.

Course Structure and Learning Goals

Learning Modules and Objectives

The course is organized into modules, each with specific objectives and associated laboratory activities and assessments.

Learning Goal/Module	Module Objectives
Evolution	Identify the major unifying theme of life on earth. Understand the role of Charles Darwin in developing evolutionary theory. Describe mechanisms of evolution and natural selection. Explain adaptation and phylogeny.
Atoms & Molecules	Review atomic structure and chemical bonds. Describe the properties of water and their biological significance. Identify major classes of biomolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids). Relate structure to function in biomolecules.
Cells & Cellular Functions	Identify differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Describe cell organelles and their functions. Explain membrane structure and transport mechanisms. Summarize cellular respiration and photosynthesis.
Respiration & Physiology	Identify the processes involved in cellular respiration and photosynthesis. Compare aerobic and anaerobic pathways.
Mitosis & The Cell Cycle	Explain the various stages of cell division and understand why it is essential for growth and repair. Describe the regulation of the cell cycle and its checkpoints.
Meiosis & Fertilization	Define ploidy and the sequence of changes during sexual life cycles. Describe the process and significance of meiosis and fertilization.
Genetics	Describe the contributions of Mendel to genetics. Predict outcomes of genetic crosses using Punnett squares. Explain the concepts of genotype and phenotype. Discuss patterns of inheritance and genetic variation.
Populations & Species	Define what a population is and how this is the level of organization where evolution occurs. Explain mechanisms of speciation and factors affecting population genetics.
Ecology	Describe ecology as a level of biological inquiry and relate these concepts to environmental issues. Explain energy flow and nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Discuss population dynamics and community interactions.

Course Outline

Major Topics Covered

• Introduction to Biology: Scientific method, characteristics of life, levels of organization.

• Chemistry of Life: Atoms, molecules, water, pH, macromolecules.

• Cell Structure and Function: Prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells, organelles, membranes, transport.

• Metabolism: Enzymes, energy, cellular respiration, fermentation, photosynthesis.

• Cell Division: Mitosis, cell cycle regulation, cancer.

• Meiosis and Genetics: Sexual reproduction, Mendelian genetics, inheritance patterns, DNA structure and replication, gene expression.

• Evolution: Natural selection, population genetics, speciation, phylogeny.

• Ecology: Populations, communities, ecosystems, conservation biology.

Assessment and Grading

Course Components

• Lecture Exams and Final: Assess understanding of lecture material.

• Laboratory Activities: Hands-on experiments and practical applications.

• Homework Assignments: Reinforce concepts and prepare for exams.

• Quizzes: Frequent checks for understanding.

Key Definitions and Concepts

Important Terms

• Evolution: The process by which populations of organisms change over generations through mechanisms such as natural selection and genetic drift.

• Cell: The basic unit of life, capable of carrying out all life processes.

• Gene: A segment of DNA that encodes information for building proteins.

• Photosynthesis: The process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy.

• Cellular Respiration: The process by which cells extract energy from glucose and other molecules.

• Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism.

• Phenotype: The observable characteristics of an organism.

Sample Equations

• Photosynthesis:

$6CO_2 + 6H_2O + \text{light energy} \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2$

• Cellular Respiration:

$C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + \text{energy (ATP)}$

Course Policies and Resources

• Attendance: Regular attendance is expected for both lectures and labs.

• Academic Integrity: Students are expected to adhere to university standards for academic honesty.

• Accommodations: Support is available for students with disabilities.

• Required Materials: Textbook (e.g., Campbell Biology in Focus), access to online homework systems.

Additional info:

• This syllabus provides a roadmap for the semester, including weekly topics, exam dates, and assignment deadlines.

• Students are encouraged to use office hours and university resources for additional support.