General Biology I (BIOL 1102) Course Overview and Study Guide

Course Information

Resources

• Textbook: Campbell Biology, Urry, et al., 12th edition, 2023 (Pearson)

• Lab Manual: Quad Grand Laboratory Notebook, Scientific Calculator

• Online Platform: D2L for Biology 1102-01

• Additional Materials: Scientific papers as assigned

Office Hours

• Monday: 2:00 – 3:30 pm

• Wednesday: 11:00 am – 12:15 pm

• Tuesday/Thursday: 8:45 – 9:30 am and 2 – 3:30 pm

Course Structure

Overview

This is a rigorous, college-level biology course designed to challenge and prepare students for further study in science. The course includes lectures, laboratory work, assignments, and exams. Success requires active participation, preparation, and engagement with both the material and your peers.

• Lecture Meetings: M/W 12:00 – 1:50 pm, BHCC 212

• Laboratory Meetings: W 2:00 – 4:50 pm, BHCC 212

What to Bring to Every Meeting

• Textbook (or e-book) and a note-taking device (laptop, tablet, or notebook)

• Scientific calculator

• Dedicated lab notebook or electronic note-keeping device

Preparing Before Lecture

• Read assigned materials before class

• Prepare questions or notes on difficult concepts

During Lecture

• Take clear, complete notes

• Record (audio) lectures if permitted

• Ask questions and participate in discussions

After Lecture

• Review and annotate your notes

• Rewrite notes for clarity and completeness

• Discuss concepts with classmates or instructors

Laboratory Attendance and Preparation

Attendance Policy

Lab attendance is required and will be recorded. Each unexcused absence will result in a loss of 20 points (5%) from your course total. Make-up labs are not feasible except in rare circumstances.

What to Bring to Lab

• Same materials as lecture

• Lab notebook and calculator

Preparing for Lab

• Check D2L for documents and instructions at least 24 hours before lab

During Lab

• Participate in group work and discussions

• Maintain a comprehensive lab notebook

After Lab

• Complete any outside work as required

• Share data and observations with your group as needed

Student Conduct and Assignment Requirements

• Treat classmates and professors with dignity and respect

• Do not use AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) for assignments unless instructed

• All assignments must be typed and submitted electronically

• Use proper English, grammar, and spelling

• Additional requirements may be given with each assignment

Academic Integrity and Student Behavior Expectations

• Cheating, plagiarism, and academic dishonesty will not be tolerated

• Follow the NHCC Student Code of Conduct

• Attendance is expected and required

• Notify your instructor in advance if you must miss class

Prerequisites and Required Knowledge

• Completion of General Chemistry I with a grade of "C" or better

• Enrollment in General Biology I

Essential Background Concepts

• Basic chemical principles (atoms, energy, etc.)

• Understanding of aerobic/anaerobic cellular respiration

• Membranes, osmosis, diffusion, and passive transport

• Cell division, inheritance, and mutation

• DNA replication and protein synthesis

• Fundamental algebraic skills

Chemical Safety

• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available for all chemicals used in lab

• Review safety information and ask questions if concerned

Course Withdrawal

• If you need to withdraw, it is your responsibility to do so officially

• Consult your professor for permission to re-enroll if you wish to resume attendance

How Learning is Evaluated

Assessment Types

• Assignments: Problem sets and worksheets to practice and expand skills

• Quizzes and ICs (In-class assignments): Frequent, short assessments

• Lecture Exams: Three midterms and one comprehensive final exam

• Lab Project: Final project based on laboratory work

Grade Determination

Grades are based on a point system, with the following breakdown:

Grade	Percent (total points needed)
A	90–99% (2.94–3.3 x 103)
B	80–89% (2.64–2.93 x 103)
C	70–79% (2.32–2.63 x 103)
D	60–69% (2.0–2.31 x 103)
F	<60% (<2.0 x 103)

Item	Available Points
Lecture Exam I	5.0 x 102
Lecture Exam II	5.0 x 102
Lecture Exam III	5.0 x 102
Quizzes and IC Assignments	4.0 x 102
Assignments	3.0 x 102
Final Lab Project	3.0 x 102
Total	3.3 x 103

Exam Policies

• Three midterm exams and one comprehensive final exam

• Make-up exams only for documented, excused absences

• Final exam score may replace lowest midterm score if higher

Laboratory Passing Requirement

• Must acquire at least 60% of laboratory points to pass the course

Key Concepts to Review Before the Course

• Essential chemistry concepts

• Basic cell structure and function

• General metabolic principles

• Cell division and genetics

• DNA replication and protein synthesis

• Fundamental algebraic skills

Contacting Your Professor

• Use clear, concise, and respectful communication

• Include your name, course, and a brief question or request

Additional info:

• Students are encouraged to use office hours and communicate regularly with the instructor for support.

• Active participation and engagement are essential for success in this course.