Biology I Syllabus and Course Overview – General Biology

Course Overview

Introduction to Biology I

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of modern biology, focusing on the molecular and cellular basis of life, genetics, evolution, and the diversity of living organisms. It is designed for students pursuing degrees in biology, health sciences, and related fields.

• Course Code: Biology 2200

• Semester: Fall 2023

• Instructor: Mitch Albers

• Prerequisites: CHEM 1020 or CHEM 1151 or equivalent high school chemistry with a grade of C or higher

Course Description and Objectives

Course Description

This course covers the fundamental concepts of biology, including the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, energy and metabolism, genetics, evolution, and the diversity of life. Laboratory exercises reinforce lecture topics and provide hands-on experience with biological investigation.

Course Objectives

• Understand the chemical and physical basis of life

• Describe the structure and function of cells and cell organelles

• Explain the processes of energy transformation and metabolism

• Understand the principles of genetics and inheritance

• Describe the mechanisms of evolution and the diversity of living organisms

• Develop laboratory skills in biological investigation and data analysis

Required Materials

• Textbook: Campbell Biology (12th Edition) by Urry, Cain, Wasserman, Minorsky, and Reece

• Lab Manual: Minneapolis College Online Laboratory Manual (LabArchives)

• Online Resources: MasteringBiology, D2L (Desire2Learn), LabArchives

Major Topics Covered

• Introduction to Biology

• Chemistry of Life

• Water and Biomolecules

• Cell Structure and Function

• Membranes and Transport

• Energy, Metabolism, and Enzymes

• Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis

• Cell Communication and Division

• Genetics: Meiosis, Mendelian Genetics, DNA Structure and Function, Gene Expression

• Evolution and Diversity of Life

Course Schedule (Sample Topics by Week)

Week	Lecture Topics	Textbook Reading	Lab Topics
1	Introduction to Biology	Ch. 1	Scientific Method & Laboratory Safety
2	Chemistry of Life	Ch. 2–3	Biological Molecules
3	Cell Structure & Function	Ch. 4–6	Cell Structure & Microscopy
4	Membranes & Transport	Ch. 7	Membrane Structure & Function
5	Energy, Metabolism, Enzymes	Ch. 8	Enzyme Activity
6	Cellular Respiration	Ch. 9	Cellular Respiration
7	Photosynthesis	Ch. 10	Photosynthesis
8	Cell Communication & Division	Ch. 11–12	Cell Division (Mitosis & Meiosis)
9	Genetics	Ch. 13–17	Genetics & DNA Fingerprinting
10	Evolution & Diversity	Ch. 22–27	Evolutionary Mechanisms

Additional info: The full schedule includes exam dates, holidays, and specific lab deadlines. Refer to the syllabus for the complete schedule.

Grading and Assessment

• Lecture Exams (3)

• Final Exam (comprehensive)

• Laboratory Exercises and Reports

• Online Assignments (MasteringBiology, D2L quizzes)

• Participation and Attendance

Grades are based on a percentage system, with specific weights assigned to each component. See the syllabus for detailed breakdowns.

Course Policies

• Attendance: Regular attendance is required for both lecture and lab. Excessive absences may result in withdrawal from the course.

• Academic Integrity: Cheating and plagiarism are not tolerated. All work must be your own.

• Late Work: Assignments must be submitted on time. Late work may not be accepted or may incur penalties.

• Disability Services: Accommodations are available through the Accessibility Resource Center (ARC).

Bloom’s Taxonomy and Critical Thinking

Levels of Thinking

The course emphasizes higher-order thinking skills, following Bloom’s Taxonomy. Students are encouraged to move beyond memorization to application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of biological concepts.

• Remembering: Recall facts and basic concepts

• Understanding: Explain ideas or concepts

• Applying: Use information in new situations

• Analyzing: Draw connections among ideas

• Evaluating: Justify a stand or decision

• Creating: Produce new or original work

Additional info: Students are encouraged to use Bloom’s Taxonomy as a guide for studying and preparing for exams.

Student Responsibilities

• Complete all assigned readings and homework

• Participate in lectures, labs, and discussions

• Submit assignments and lab reports on time

• Seek help when needed (office hours, tutoring, ARC)

Support Services

• Accessibility Resource Center (ARC)

• Student Support Services

• Academic Advising

• Library and Online Resources

Contact Information

• Instructor Email: [e-mail]

• Office Hours: See syllabus for details

Note: This is a summary of the syllabus and course structure. For detailed policies, schedules, and grading rubrics, refer to the full syllabus document provided by your instructor.