BIO 161: Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology – Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology

This course provides a foundational understanding of cell and molecular biology, focusing on the chemical and molecular processes that underlie life. Students will explore the structure and function of macromolecules, cellular energetics, genetic information flow, and experimental techniques in biology.

• Course Title: BIO 161-02: Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology

• Schedule: Spring 2026, TR 3:10-4:30pm

• Instructor: Professor Neal

• Location: Bldg 006-124

Course Objectives

• Understand basic principles of cellular energetics

• Describe the structure, assembly, and function of cellular macromolecules

• Explain cellular division, reproduction, and inheritance

• Understand genetic information storage, maintenance, and usage

• Explain gene expression control mechanisms

• Collect, analyze, and interpret biological data

• Perform fundamental cell and molecular biology techniques

• Describe experimental approaches in cell and molecular biology

• Read, interpret, and apply scientific information

Required Materials

• Lecture: Mastering Biology Access (includes eText and online assignments)

• Lab: BIO 161 Lab Report Booklet, Labflow (online lab platform)

Grading Breakdown

Component	Percentage
Assignments (DSMs, Canvas, Quizzes)	35%
Learning Catalytics	5%
Midterms (2)	20%
Final Exam	15%
Lab Grade	25%
Total	100%

Letter Grade Scale

Letter	Percentage Range
A	≥ 93%
A-	90.000-92.999%
B+	87.000-89.999%
B	83.000-86.999%
B-	80.000-82.999%
C+	77.000-79.999%
C	73.000-76.999%
C-	70.000-72.999%
D+	67.000-69.999%
D	63.000-67.999%
D-	60.000-62.999%
F	≤ 59.999%

Course Topics & Weekly Schedule

Week	Main Topics	Key Chapters/Readings
1	Introduction, Chemistry Review, Proteins	Ch. 2.1-2.3, 2.5; Ch. 8.1-8.2; Ch. 3.1-3.4
2	Energy & Enzymes, Nucleic Acids	Ch. 4.1-4.3; Ch. 8.3-8.5; Ch. 5
3	Carbohydrates, Lipids, Membranes	Ch. 6; Ch. 8
4	Metabolism, Respiration, Photosynthesis (if time)	Ch. 9; Ch. 10
5	Midterm 1, Photosynthesis, Cell Structure	Ch. 10; Ch. 7.2-7.6
6	Cell Structure & Organization, Cell Signaling, Cell Cycle & Mitosis	Ch. 7.2-7.6; Ch. 11.2-11.3; Ch. 12
7	Meiosis, Mendelian Inheritance	Ch. 13; Ch. 14
8	Mendelian Inheritance, Midterm 2	Ch. 15.1, 15.3-15.5
9	DNA Replication, Gene Expression (Central Dogma, Transcription, Regulation)	Ch. 16; Ch. 17.1; Ch. 18.1-18.3
10	Gene Expression (Translation, Regulation)	Ch. 17.2-17.5; Ch. 19 (if time)
Finals	Comprehensive Final Exam	Ch. 15-19 (cumulative)

Major Topics Covered

• Biology as a Science: Introduction to the study of life, scientific method, and experimental design.

• Chemical Basis of Life: Water, carbon, and the chemical properties essential for biological molecules.

• Macromolecules: Structure and function of proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

• Cell Structure and Function: Membranes, organelles, and cellular organization.

• Energetics and Metabolism: Enzyme function, metabolic pathways, cellular respiration, and photosynthesis.

• Cell Division: Mitosis, meiosis, and the cell cycle.

• Genetics: Mendelian inheritance, DNA replication, gene expression, and regulation.

• Experimental Techniques: Data collection, analysis, and interpretation in cell and molecular biology.

Assignments and Assessments

• Dynamic Study Modules (DSMs): Weekly online modules for self-assessment and review.

• Homework Assignments: Varied assignments submitted via Canvas or in person, including preparatory and follow-up activities.

• Quizzes: Timed, online quizzes before each exam, covering recent chapters.

• Learning Catalytics: In-class, device-based questions for real-time assessment (graded on participation and accuracy).

• Midterms and Final Exam: Two midterms and a cumulative final exam, with strict policies on electronic devices.

• Lab Assignments: Lab report booklet and Labflow assignments for hands-on experience.

Policies and Success Strategies

Attendance and Participation

• Regular attendance is strongly encouraged for success.

• Active participation in class and lab is expected.

Device Policy

• Handwritten notes are encouraged for better retention.

• Electronic devices are allowed for note-taking but must not be used for non-class activities.

• Strict prohibition of devices during exams; violations result in a zero and disciplinary action.

Assignment Policies

• Late assignments incur a 10% per day penalty, up to 50% maximum.

• One grace day per quarter is allowed for homework extensions (not for quizzes or exams).

Academic Honesty

• Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited and will be reported.

Suggestions for Success

• Attend all lectures and labs; take thorough notes.

• Review material after each lecture to reinforce learning.

• Use the textbook and course resources actively (e.g., diagrams, tables, practice questions).

• Study actively: write, draw, answer questions, and discuss with peers.

• Organize information using outlines, diagrams, and comparison tables.

• Test yourself regularly and seek help when needed.

Key Study Techniques

• Answer textbook and lecture questions to identify gaps in understanding.

• Make outlines and summary tables for each topic.

• Draw diagrams and flowcharts for complex processes (e.g., cellular respiration, gene expression).

• Visualize molecules and processes to enhance comprehension.

• Study with peers for collaborative learning and discussion.

Sample Table: Comparison of Major Macromolecules

Macromolecule	Monomer	Bond Type	Main Function
Proteins	Amino acids	Peptide bond	Catalysis, structure, transport, signaling
Nucleic Acids	Nucleotides	Phosphodiester bond	Information storage and transfer
Carbohydrates	Monosaccharides	Glycosidic linkage	Energy storage, structure, recognition
Lipids	Fatty acids, glycerol (not true polymers)	Ester bond	Membranes, energy storage, signaling

Important Equations and Concepts

• Central Dogma of Molecular Biology:

$\text{DNA} \xrightarrow{\text{transcription}} \text{RNA} \xrightarrow{\text{translation}} \text{Protein}$

• Cellular Respiration (Overall Reaction):

$\mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 + 6\,\mathrm{O}_2 \rightarrow 6\,\mathrm{CO}_2 + 6\,\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} + \text{Energy (ATP)}$

• Photosynthesis (Overall Reaction):

$6\,\mathrm{CO}_2 + 6\,\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} + \text{Light Energy} \rightarrow \mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 + 6\,\mathrm{O}_2$

• Mendel's Law of Segregation: Each allele segregates into separate gametes during meiosis.

• Mendel's Law of Independent Assortment: Genes for different traits assort independently if on different chromosomes.

Final Exam Information

• Date: Thursday, June 11th, 4:10-7:00pm

• Format: ~50% cumulative, ~50% on Ch. 15-19

• Note: No alternative exam times; plan accordingly.

Additional Info

• LabFlow provides online access to lab procedures, safety, and assignments.

• Mastering Biology and Canvas are essential for assignments and communication.

• Check email and Canvas notifications regularly for updates.