General Biology I (BIO 107) Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Overview

Introduction to General Biology I (BIO 107)

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of living organisms and their environments. It is designed for students in allied health and science majors, covering fundamental biological concepts, chemical and physical processes, and experimental and quantitative processes in biology.

• Instructor: Dr. Anastassia Erudattius

• Lecture: Tue/Thu 9:35 AM – 11:00 AM

• Lab: Tue/Thu 11:20 PM – 2:25 PM

• Required Text: Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections, 10th Edition

• Other Materials: BIO 107 Laboratory Manual, lab coat, latex-free disposable gloves, safety goggles, answer sheets

Course Description

Scope and Content

The course examines the diversity of living organisms, their structure, function, and evolution. It emphasizes the following:

• Genetics: Study of heredity and variation in organisms.

• Metabolism: Chemical processes that occur within living organisms to maintain life.

• Animal Anatomy and Physiology: Structure and function of animal bodies.

• Evolution: The process by which different kinds of living organisms develop and diversify from earlier forms.

• Cellular and Molecular Biology: Study of cells and their molecular components.

• Experimental and Quantitative Processes: Scientific methods and data analysis in biology.

Student Learning Outcomes

Expected Competencies

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

1. Apply the process of science to problem-solving situations and formulate procedural steps for scientific investigation.

2. Explain, employ, and evaluate basic ecological concepts.

3. Describe the process of evolution and explain its mechanisms using modern evolutionary theory.

4. Define and distinguish atoms, molecules, compounds, chemical bonds, and macromolecules; explain chemical bond formation and the properties of biological molecules.

5. State the cell theory and describe the structure and function of prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

6. Interpret and compare processes of cellular metabolism, including enzymes, cellular respiration, and photosynthesis.

7. Compare and contrast mechanisms of reproduction, growth, and development in the natural world.

8. Describe, apply, and distinguish Mendel’s principles of genetics and their exceptions.

9. Discuss the process of DNA replication, protein synthesis, mutation, and DNA technology; analyze data to predict outcomes from nucleotide or amino acid sequences.

Key Terms and Concepts

• Cell Theory: The scientific theory stating that all living things are composed of cells, and that the cell is the basic unit of life.

• Evolution: The change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations.

• Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.

• Genetics: The study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in living organisms.

• Macromolecules: Large, complex molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

• Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.

• Cellular Respiration: The process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water.

Course Policies

Attendance

• Attendance is mandatory for both lectures and labs.

• Missing more than two absences may result in being dropped from the class.

• Students are responsible for all material covered in class, even if absent.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating, plagiarism, and use of unauthorized materials (including AI generators) are strictly prohibited.

• Violations may result in a grade of zero and referral for disciplinary action.

Lab Safety

• All students must follow safety protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and goggles.

• Failure to comply with safety rules may result in removal from the lab.

Support and Resources

Disability Services

• Students with disabilities are encouraged to discuss accommodations with the instructor and the Disability Support Programs and Services (DSPS) office.

Pregnancy and Parenting

• Pregnant and parenting students are entitled to reasonable accommodations.

Basic Needs and Wellness

• Resources are available for students facing food, housing, or other basic needs insecurities.

• Health and wellness support is available through campus resources.

Table: Required Course Materials

Material	Description
Textbook	Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections, 10th Edition (with access code)
Lab Manual	BIO 107 Laboratory Manual
Lab Equipment	Lab coat, latex-free disposable gloves, safety goggles
Answer Sheets	4 Apperson AccuScan answer sheets #29240

Additional Info

• Communication: All course materials and grades are available on the Canvas website. Students are expected to check email and Canvas regularly for updates.

• Support Services: The syllabus provides information on support services for students with disabilities, pregnancy/parenting, basic needs, and health/wellness.