BIOL 2107K Principles of Biology: Course Overview and Study Guide

BIOL 2107K Principles of Biology

Course Introduction

BIOL 2107K is a foundational course in biological principles, designed for students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The course covers essential topics such as the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, photosynthesis, mitosis, meiosis, genetics, and biotechnology. It emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills.

• Core IMPACTS Course: This course is part of the STEM area and supports students' academic and career goals.

• Prerequisite: Passing or exempting READ 0999.

• Required Materials: Biology by Campbell, 11th Edition, Pearson Publishers; Mastering Biology online resource; safety equipment (goggles and lab coats).

Main Topics Covered

• Chemistry of Life: Study of atoms, molecules, and chemical reactions essential for biological processes.

• Cell Structure and Function: Examination of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, organelles, and cellular processes.

• Photosynthesis: Understanding the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

• Mitosis and Meiosis: Exploration of cell division mechanisms and their roles in growth and reproduction.

• Genetics: Study of inheritance, DNA structure, and gene expression.

• Biotechnology: Application of biological techniques for practical purposes.

Student Learning Outcomes

Expected Competencies

Upon successful completion of BIOL 2107K, students will be able to:

1. Identify steps of the Scientific Method and apply them in laboratory and classroom settings.

2. Identify four major macromolecules and their components: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

3. Summarize the stages of photosynthesis and their significance.

4. Summarize the steps of cellular respiration and energy production.

5. Describe the basics of genetics and inheritance patterns.

Course Structure and Assessment

Grading and Evaluation

Student progress is evaluated through assignments, quizzes, exams, lab exercises, and lab practicals. The grading scale is based on total points earned during the semester.

• Total Possible Points: 850 (Lecture: 650, Lab: 200)

• Grade Percentages:

  • A: 90-100%

  • B: 80-89%

  • C: 70-79%

  • D: 60-69%

  • F: <60%

Formula for Final Grade Calculation:

$\text{Final Grade Percentage} = \frac{\text{Total Points Earned}}{\text{Total Possible Points}} \times 100$

Lecture Point Breakdown

Assignments/Exams	Points
Assignments (Mastering Biology)	300
Quizzes (10 points each)	100
Exams (including HW/Modules)	100
Final Exam	150
Total Points for Lecture	650

Lab Point Breakdown

Quizzes/Exams	Points
Lab exercises (including quizzes and lab exercises)	100
Lab Practicals	100
Total Points for Lab	200

Assessment Details

• Exams: Four exams plus a comprehensive final exam. Exams cover lecture and lab material. The lowest exam grade (except the final) will be dropped.

• Quizzes: Quizzes are worth 10 points each and may include lab exercises. The lowest quiz grade will be dropped.

• Assignments: Assignments are worth 10 points each and are completed in Mastering Biology. Only the top 10 assignment grades are used in grade calculations.

• Lab Practicals: Two lab-based exams to assess understanding of lab activities.

Course Policies and Support

Attendance and Academic Integrity

• Regular attendance and participation are required for success.

• Students must adhere to the college's policy on academic integrity, including avoiding plagiarism and cheating.

Make-Up Work Policy

• No make-ups for missed exams or assignments without documentation of a college-approved excuse (e.g., doctor's note, medical emergency).

• Missed assessments must be made up within one week if documentation is provided.

• Missed lab practicals cannot be made up.

Student Support Services

• Counseling Services: Telecounseling, crisis support, and wellness programs are available.

• Library: Access to resources, study guides, and research support.

• Student Success Tutoring: Free tutoring for STEM and non-STEM courses, study skills workshops, and online support.

• Disability Services: Accommodations available for students with documented disabilities.

Key Terms and Concepts

Definitions

• Scientific Method: A systematic approach to research involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis.

• Macromolecules: Large molecules essential for life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

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

• Cellular Respiration: The process by which cells break down glucose to produce energy in the form of ATP.

• Genetics: The study of heredity and variation in organisms.

Examples and Applications

• Example of Scientific Method: Observing plant growth under different light conditions, forming a hypothesis, conducting experiments, and analyzing results.

• Application of Genetics: Understanding inheritance patterns in humans and predicting genetic disorders.

Summary Table: Major Macromolecules

Macromolecule	Monomer	Function	Example
Carbohydrate	Monosaccharide	Energy storage, structural support	Glucose, starch
Lipid	Fatty acid, glycerol	Energy storage, membrane structure	Triglyceride, phospholipid
Protein	Amino acid	Catalysis, structure, transport	Enzyme, hemoglobin
Nucleic Acid	Nucleotide	Genetic information storage	DNA, RNA

Additional Info

• Safety Equipment: Goggles and lab coats are required for laboratory activities. These are available at low cost from the bookstore.

• Online Resources: Assignments and quizzes are completed through Mastering Biology and GeorgiaVIEW.

• Support Services: Academic support, counseling, and library resources are available to all students.