BIOL 1100 Principles of Biology I – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

BIOL 1100 Principles of Biology I – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

BIOL 1100 is an introductory biology course designed for students majoring in biological sciences and related fields. The course emphasizes a modern, research-focused approach to understanding the structure, composition, dynamics, interactions, and evolution of cells and organisms. It prepares students for advanced coursework in biology and related disciplines, and fulfills a Natural Science w/lab requirement for General Education.

• Course Title: Principles of Biology I (BIOL 1100)

• Semester: Fall 2025

• Instructor: Christine Minor (Principal Lecturer)

• Class Meeting: M/W 3:35 – 4:50 pm, Brackett Auditorium

• Corequisite: Must be concurrently enrolled in BIOL 1101 Laboratory

Course Description

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of biology, including cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and evolution. It is designed for students pursuing majors in biological sciences, pre-health, and related fields. The course covers:

• Structure and function at all levels of biological organization

• Mechanisms of inheritance and genetic variation

• Biological chemistry and metabolism

• Evolutionary processes and patterns

• Scientific inquiry and experimental design

Course Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of BIOL 1100, students will be able to:

• Explain how evolution is the driving force behind life's unity and diversity.

• Describe and give examples of how structure and function are related in biological systems.

• Apply ideas of structure and function at all levels of biological organization.

• Describe the transfer and transformation of energy and matter at the organismal level.

• Show how homeostasis and homeostatic processes, such as positive and negative feedback, are critical to life.

• Explain and illustrate the mechanisms of inheritance and genetic variation, including Mendelian genetics, DNA replication, transcription, translation, and genetic recombination.

• Evaluate and analyze evolutionary processes and patterns, including natural selection, adaptation, speciation, and the evidence supporting the theory of evolution.

Laboratory-Focused Outcomes

• Apply scientific inquiry skills to analyze and interpret biological data, hypotheses, and experimental results.

• Design and execute basic biological experiments using the scientific method, including formulating testable hypotheses, selecting appropriate data collection techniques, and analyzing results.

• Demonstrate the process of scientific reasoning through experimental activity and critically compare results to accepted natural science principles.

Required Text and Resources

• Textbook: Biology: How Life Works (4th Edition) by James Morris et al., Macmillan Learning. ISBN: 9781319261858

• Canvas: Course materials and communications will be available via Clemson’s Canvas platform.

• Technology: Computer with webcam and microphone, reliable internet connection, and access to Zoom for video conferencing.

• Other Materials: Microphone headset or earbuds with microphone, notebook for note-taking, and access to the electronic textbook or hard copy.

Learning Environment

The course is delivered in a traditional, in-person format with both synchronous (in-class) and asynchronous (online) components. Students are responsible for keeping up with course material, attending lectures, and participating in laboratory sessions. Exams will be taken in class on scheduled exam days.

Course Policies and Expectations

• Attendance: Regular attendance is expected. Students who do not attend lab during the first week may be dropped from both lab and lecture.

• Grading: Grades are based on formative assessments, exams, written assignments, and laboratory performance. Details on grading policies and schemes are provided in the full syllabus.

• Academic Integrity: Students are expected to adhere to Clemson University’s academic integrity policies. Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

• Getting Help: Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) sessions, Academic Success Center (ASC) tutoring, and instructor office hours are available for additional support.

Technical Skills Requirement

Students are expected to have basic computer skills, including word processing, email, and the ability to navigate online learning platforms. Lack of technical knowledge may interfere with learning and performance in the course.

Example Table: Required Materials and Resources

Resource	Description	Access
Textbook	Biology: How Life Works (4th Ed.)	Purchase or access via Clemson Bookstore or publisher website
Canvas	Course materials, assignments, and communication	canvas.clemson.edu
Computer & Internet	Laptop or desktop with webcam and microphone	Student-provided
Zoom	Video conferencing for remote sessions	zoom.us

Support Services

• Academic Success Center: Offers coaching, tutoring, and academic resources (www.clemson.edu/asc).

• PAL Assistance: Peer-Assisted Learning sessions for collaborative study and exam preparation.

• Writing Lab: Support for writing assignments and lab reports.

• Libraries: Access to books, journals, and research databases.

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to use a notebook for all notes, as this is often more effective than typing on an electronic device.

• Students who regularly keep up with course content tend to perform better academically.

• For technical assistance, students may contact Clemson IT support or consult the university’s help resources.