General Biology I (BIO 170) – Course Overview and Study Guide

Study Guide - Smart Notes

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General Biology I – Course Overview

Introduction

This study guide provides an overview of the foundational concepts and unifying theories in General Biology I, as outlined in the course syllabus for BIO 170. The course covers the chemical basis of life, cellular processes, physiological systems, and the integration of biological knowledge for understanding living organisms.

Course Structure and Resources

Required Textbook and Online Resources

Textbook: Biological Science, 6th Edition by Freeman (Pearson)
Online Platform: Pearson Mastering Biology (includes eText, quizzes, study modules, and interactive activities)
Interactive Study Modules: Cumulative tests, self-study resources, Bio Interactive Films, 3D Animations, GraphIt Coaching, and cognitive science integration for adaptive learning.

Course Objectives

Learning Goals

Understand the chemical basis of life, focusing on water, carbon, proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.
Describe key cellular processes, including:
- Cell interactions
- Photosynthesis
- Respiration
- Cell cycle
Identify and describe physiological processes at the molecular, cellular, and organ system levels.
Explain physiological processes governing animal form and function, including:
- Water and electrolyte balance
- Nutrition
- Gas exchange
- Circulation
- Nervous and sensory systems

Major Topics and Chapters

Course Content Outline

Topic	Chapters
Biology – The Study of Life	1
Water and Carbon – The Chemical Basis of Life	2
Protein Structure and Function	3
Nucleic Acids and RNA World	4
An Introduction to Carbohydrates	5
Lipids, Membranes, and the First Cells	6
Inside the Cell; Cell-cell Interactions	7, 11
The Cell Cycle; Meiosis	12, 13
Energy and Enzymes	8
Cellular Respiration and Fermentation	9
Photosynthesis	10
Animal Form and Function	39
Water and Electrolyte Balance in Animals	40
Animal Nutrition	41
Gas Exchange and Circulation	42
Animal Nervous System	43
Animal Sensory Systems and Movement	44, 45
Chemical Signal in Animals	46
Animal Reproduction	47
The Immune System in Animals	48

Key Concepts and Definitions

Sample Definitions and Explanations

Cellular Interactions: The processes by which cells communicate and coordinate activities, including cell signaling and cell junctions.
Photosynthesis: The process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen. Equation:
Cellular Respiration: The metabolic process by which cells break down glucose to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell. Equation:
Protein Structure: Proteins are composed of amino acids and have four levels of structure: primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary.
Water and Electrolyte Balance: The regulation of water and ion concentrations in the body, essential for maintaining homeostasis.
Nervous System: The organ system responsible for transmitting signals between different parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

Course Evaluation

Assessment Methods

Lecture Exams (Multiple Choice): 50%
Cumulative Final Exam (Multiple Choice): 20%
Pearson Mastering Biology Assignments: 15%
Quizzes (Multiple Choice): 15%
Class Participation & Full Attendance: Extra credit (5 points added to final exam score)

Study Tips

How to Succeed in General Biology I

Attend all lectures and participate actively.
Complete all assigned readings and online modules.
Utilize interactive study tools and practice quizzes on Pearson Mastering Biology.
Review key concepts regularly and seek clarification from your instructor as needed.

Additional info:

Some details about the cognitive science integration and adaptive learning features were inferred from standard Pearson Mastering Biology platform descriptions.
Definitions and equations for photosynthesis and cellular respiration were added for academic completeness.