BackBIO 251 Biology I with Lab – Course Overview and Study Guide
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Course Overview
Introduction to Biology I with Lab
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to fundamental biological principles at the molecular and cellular level. Students will explore the chemistry of biological molecules, cell structure and function, genetics, and biotechnology. Laboratory activities are designed to reinforce hypothesis-driven experimentation, data collection, and critical analysis.
Course Code: BIO 251 13521
Level: Undergraduate
Modality: Online
Instructor: Tolani Adebanjo (tolani.t.adebanjo@wilmu.edu)
Course Materials
Required Textbooks and Lab Access
Campbell's Biology w/Mastering Biology (Urry, 12th Edition, Pearson)
Labster Lab Access (Online lab simulations)
Additional equipment: Microphone, webcam, and reliable high-speed internet connection.
Major Instructional Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Demonstrate proper and safe use of biology laboratory equipment.
Describe the structure of biological polymers and analyze data to determine the effect of structure on function.
Describe the structure and function of cell organelles and membranes, including the movement of molecules across membranes to maintain homeostasis.
Identify mechanisms and structural features of cells that allow organisms to capture, store, and use free energy.
Model the transmission of genetic material to the next generation to create either identical cells or genetic variation.
Identify Mendelian and Non-Mendelian patterns of inheritance using data sets and predict the inheritance of traits in future generations.
Model the transfer of genetic information from DNA and RNA to a protein and explain how gene expression is regulated and can be altered to affect the organism.
Explain the transfer of genetic information in viruses and bacteria.
Describe the techniques used to manipulate genetic material in order to understand the importance of biotechnology to humankind.
Grading Structure
Assessment Components
Grades are determined by a combination of assignments, exams, simulations, and research papers. The following table summarizes the grade distribution:
Group | Weight |
|---|---|
Article Reviews and HW | 15% |
Weeks 3 and 11 Exams | 10% |
Midterm and Final Exams | 10% |
Mastering Biology Dynamic Study Modules (optional) | 0% |
Simulations | 45% |
Research Paper | 20% |
Total | 100% |
Teaching Methodology
Strategies and Evaluation
Interactive lectures and discussions
Online simulations and lab activities
Assignments, quizzes, and research projects
Evaluation through discussion boards, reflections, milestones, and final project
Course Schedule
Topics and Assignments
The course covers a wide range of topics in general biology, including:
Chemical Context of Life – Atoms, molecules, and chemical bonds
Water and Life – Properties of water and its biological significance
Structure and Function of Biological Molecules – Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids
Cell Structure and Function – Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, organelles, membranes
Cell Communication and Cycle – Signal transduction, mitosis, meiosis
Genetics – Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance, gene expression, DNA/RNA structure and function
Biotechnology – Genetic engineering, molecular cloning, applications in medicine and agriculture
Evolution – Natural selection, speciation, phylogeny
Microbiology – Bacteria, archaea, viruses
Plant and Animal Diversity – Classification, structure, and function
Assignments include dynamic study modules, lab simulations, quizzes, homework, and research papers, scheduled throughout the semester.
Attendance and Policies
Expectations and Integrity
Regular and prompt attendance is required for all scheduled meetings and online activities.
Students are responsible for making up missed work due to absences.
Academic integrity and adherence to university policies are mandatory.
Accommodations are available for students with documented needs.
Key Concepts and Definitions
Selected Topics Explained
Biological Molecules: Molecules essential for life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. These molecules form the structural and functional basis of cells.
Cell Membrane: A selectively permeable barrier that regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell. Composed primarily of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
Homeostasis: The maintenance of stable internal conditions in an organism despite changes in the external environment.
Genetic Material: DNA and RNA, which store and transmit hereditary information. Genes are segments of DNA that code for proteins.
Mendelian Inheritance: Patterns of inheritance that follow Gregor Mendel's laws, including the segregation and independent assortment of alleles.
Gene Expression: The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product (usually a protein). Regulation of gene expression determines cell function and differentiation.
Biotechnology: The use of biological systems or living organisms to develop products and technologies for human benefit, such as genetic engineering and molecular cloning.
Example Equation: Photosynthesis
The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy:
Example Equation: Cellular Respiration
The process by which cells break down glucose to produce energy:
Example: Mendelian Genetics
Law of Segregation: Each organism carries two alleles for each trait, which separate during gamete formation.
Law of Independent Assortment: Genes for different traits are inherited independently of each other.
Additional info:
Course schedule includes dynamic study modules covering protists, cell cycle, gene expression, evolution, plant diversity, and more.
Lab simulations provide hands-on experience with macromolecules, cell transport, mitosis, meiosis, inheritance, molecular cloning, and evolution.
