General Biology I (BIO 121) Syllabus and Course Structure

Course Overview

General Biology I (BIO 121) is an introductory course designed for non-science majors, focusing on the unifying principles that govern all living things. The course covers foundational topics in biology, including biological chemistry, energy and metabolism, cell biology, genetics, and evolution. It is structured to prepare students for further studies in biology and related fields.

Course Information

• Credits: 4 (3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab per week)

• Prerequisites: ENG011 or ESL011, MAT010, REA017 or REA011

• Textbook: Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections, 10th Edition, by Taylor et al.

• Online Resources: Mastering Biology (Pearson access code required)

Student Learning Outcomes

• Evaluate the role of science in society.

• Analyze evolution by natural selection and its acceptance in the scientific community.

• Discuss the impact of biological discoveries on society.

• Explain the relationship of atoms, ions, and molecules in living and nonliving systems.

• Discuss the scope and interrelatedness of life on Earth.

• Explain the role of water in biological systems.

• Analyze the role and uniqueness of cells in organisms.

• Describe basic processes of cells and living organisms.

• Analyze the distinctiveness and importance of prokaryotic cells.

• Apply the scientific method and critical thinking to biological problems.

• Analyze complex biological processes and make conceptual connections.

• Demonstrate basic laboratory skills (microscopy, chromatography, experiments).

• Support opinions on biological issues using relevant resources.

Course Structure and Grading

Assessment Components

Component	Approximate % of Total Grade
Quizzes and Assignments	10%
Labs and Mastering Biology	8%
4 Unit Exams	52%
Lab Report and Paper	10%
Department Final Exam	20%

Grading Scale

Grade	Quality Points	Numerical Range	Definition
A	4.00	93-100	Surpasses Expectations
A-	3.67	90-92	Surpasses Expectations
B+	3.33	87-89	Above Expectations
B	3.00	83-86	Above Expectations
B-	2.67	80-82	Above Expectations
C+	2.33	77-79	Meets Expectations
C	2.00	70-76	Meets Expectations
D	1.00	60-69	Below Expectations
F	0.00	0-59	Academic Failure
XF	0.00	0.00	Academic Misconduct

Course Outline & Required Readings

Unit I: Introduction to Biology, Biochemistry, and Evolution

• Ch. 1 – Exploring Life

• Ch. 13 – Concepts of Evolution (Sections 13.1-13.6)

• Ch. 2 – Atoms and Molecules

• Ch. 3 – Biological Molecules

• Labs: Lab Safety, Experimental Design, Evolution, Atomic Structure, Carbohydrates

Unit II: Cell Biology and Metabolism

• Ch. 4 – Cell Structure

• Ch. 5 – Cell Membrane Structure and Function

• Labs: Microscope, Cell Structure/Cell Membrane, Diffusion & Osmosis, Enzyme Activity, Protein Critical Thinking

Unit III: Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

• Ch. 7 – Photosynthesis

• Ch. 6 – Glycolysis and Cellular Respiration

• Labs: Photosynthesis, Pigment Extraction, Cellular Respiration

Unit IV: Cellular Reproduction, Inheritance, and Gene Pool

• Ch. 8 – Cellular Reproduction

• Ch. 9 – Patterns of Inheritance

• Labs: Cell Division, Mendelian Inheritance, Genetics Problems

Unit V: DNA, Gene Expression, and Biotechnology

• Ch. 10 – DNA and Genes (Sections 10.1-10.16)

• Ch. 11 – Gene Regulation (Sections 11.1-11.8, 11.16-11.19)

• Ch. 12 – Biotechnology (Sections 12.1-12.16)

• Labs: RNA Extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Electrophoresis

Course Policies and Resources

• Attendance: Defined as engagement in course-required activities for online students.

• Withdrawal: Students must follow official procedures and deadlines for course withdrawal.

• Academic Integrity: Zero tolerance for cheating or plagiarism; violations result in an XF or zero for the assignment.

• Makeup Policy: No makeup quizzes; excused exams require documentation and may be replaced by the final exam grade.

• Communication: Use MCCC email for all correspondence; expect responses within 24 hours on weekdays.

• Lab Safety: Review and understand virtual lab safety standards.

• Student Resources: Access to library, health, and wellness services, and technology policies are available online.

Important Notes

• This is an accelerated online course; expect to spend at least 24 hours per week on coursework.

• Course schedule and test dates are tentative and may change; check Canvas for updates.