BIO 110: Introductory Biology for Pre-Health Professions – Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

Course Overview

This study guide summarizes the structure, expectations, and core content areas of BIO 110: Introductory Biology: Preparation for Pre-Health Professions at MiraCosta College. The course provides foundational knowledge in biology with an emphasis on human health, scientific inquiry, and laboratory skills, preparing students for advanced studies in health-related fields.

Course Structure and Logistics

Lecture and Lab Schedule

• Lecture: Mondays & Wednesdays, 4:30–5:45 PM

• Lab: Wednesdays, 6:00–8:50 PM

• Location: San Elijo Campus

• Instructor: Dr. Eva Hawara

• Textbook: Campbell Biology: Concepts and Connections, 10th Edition

Course Description

• Broad introduction to biological concepts and principles

• Emphasis on human health and scientific inquiry

• Topics include biochemistry, metabolism, cell division, genetics, development, evolution, and adaptation

• Laboratory component includes experiments, demonstrations, and discussions

Major Topics and Weekly Outline

Lecture Topics by Week

• Week 1: Classification of life, levels of biological organization, cells, domains, scientific method

• Week 2: Evolution, natural selection, taxonomy, phylogenetic relationships

• Weeks 3–5: Chemistry of life (atoms, bonds, water, pH), biomolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids)

• Week 7: Tour of the cell

• Week 8: Membrane structure and function

• Week 9: Energetics, cellular respiration

• Week 10: Cell division: mitosis, meiosis

• Week 11: Cell cycle regulation, genetic basis of cancer

• Week 13: Genetics and inheritance (Mendelian and non-Mendelian)

• Week 14: Molecular genetics (DNA, RNA, protein synthesis)

• Week 15: Control of gene expression, developmental biology

• Week 16: Immunology, vaccines, bacterial and viral pathogens

Laboratory Topics by Week

• Metric system, scientific method, natural selection, pH, biomolecules

• Enzyme action (Parts I & II)

• Microscopy, diffusion and osmosis, concentration gradients

• Genetics labs (PTC lab), genetic disease/disorder presentations

Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs)

• CSLO 1: Explain how structure contributes to biological function using factual evidence and terminology

• CSLO 2: Formulate hypotheses and design experimental protocols based on the scientific method

• CSLO 3: Present and interpret experimental data, forming appropriate conclusions

Performance Objectives

• Analyze the scientific method and evaluate hypotheses

• Explain evolutionary facts and mechanisms (e.g., natural selection)

• Describe structural features and reactions of biomolecules

• Examine structural organization and emergent properties in living systems

• Compare energy transformation and transfer in cells

• Explain information flow from DNA to RNA to protein

• Correlate molecular genetics with heredity and disease

• Describe developmental processes leading to cell specialization

• Evaluate the impact of biological discoveries on science and society

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments

• Prepare and examine microscope slides

• Operate laboratory equipment safely and effectively

• Collect, tabulate, and present experimental data

• Analyze and interpret data to draw scientific conclusions

• Evaluate experimental support for scientific theories

Grading Criteria

Assignment	Points
Lecture Exam 1	100
Lecture Exam 2	100
Lecture Exam 3	100
Homework (3 × 20 pts)	60
Lecture Assignments (6 × 10 pts)	60
Lab Exam I	100
Lab Exam II	100
Lab Packets (11 × 6 pts)	66
Pre-lab Worksheets (8 × 2 pts)	16
Lab Quizzes (8 × 5 pts)	40
Lab Presentation	50
Total	792

Final Grades:

Letter Grade	Percentage
A	90–100%
B	80–89%
C	70–79%
D	60–69%
F	0–59%

Course Policies and Expectations

• Attendance: Mandatory for both lecture and lab; more than two absences may result in being dropped from the course.

• Homework: Must be submitted electronically via Canvas; no late submissions accepted.

• Lab Work: Pre-lab worksheets, lab packets, and quizzes are required; only one make-up lab packet allowed with instructor notification.

• Exams: Combination of multiple choice and short answer; strict exam conduct enforced.

• Academic Integrity: Cheating and plagiarism are not tolerated; use of AI tools is restricted and must be disclosed if used for research reports.

• Technology: Reliable computer and internet access required; phones not compatible with course materials.

• Accessibility: Accommodations available through Student Accessibility Services; notify instructor early.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Student Support

• Commitment to a respectful and inclusive learning environment

• Support for diverse identities and backgrounds

• Resources available for mental health, LGBTQIA students, veterans, and more

• STEM Center and instructor office hours for academic support

Key Dates

• Last day to withdraw without record: January 30, 2026

• Last day to withdraw with 'W': April 24, 2026

• Pass/No Pass deadline: May 22, 2026

Summary Table: Major Lecture Topics and Corresponding Chapters

Topic	Chapter(s)
Biology, Classification, Scientific Method	1
Evolution, Taxonomy, Phylogeny	1, 13, 15
Chemistry of Life, Biomolecules	2, 3, 5
Cell Structure and Function	4, 5
Cellular Respiration, Energetics	5, 6
Cell Division, Mitosis, Meiosis	8
Genetics and Inheritance	9, 10, 11
Developmental Biology	11
Immunology, Pathogens	24

Advice for Success

• Read textbook material before class

• Attend all lectures and labs

• Participate actively in discussions and group work

• Complete all assignments and prepare for exams using provided materials

• Seek help early through office hours, STEM Center, or email

Additional Info

• This syllabus aligns closely with the standard introductory biology curriculum, covering foundational topics such as the scientific method, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and physiology, as outlined in the provided chapter list.

• Laboratory skills and scientific inquiry are emphasized throughout the course, preparing students for advanced coursework in health sciences.