General Biology I (BIOL 1440) Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to General Biology

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of cellular and molecular biology, as well as organismal biology. It is designed for biology majors and pre-professional students, and also fulfills general education requirements.

• Course Code: BIOL 1440

• Instructor: Dr. Steven Runge, Professor of Biology

• Textbook: Biology in Focus 3rd Edition, Urry et al., 2020

• Lab Manual: Biology 1440 Laboratory Manual: Principles of Biology I, 7th Edition

Course Topics and Schedule

Main Topics Covered

The following topics are covered throughout the semester, each with associated textbook readings:

• Introduction/What is Biology?

• Evolution / Scientific Method / Chemistry of Life

• Water

• Carbon and Molecular Diversity

• Carbohydrates and Lipids

• Proteins / Nucleic Acids

• Enzymes / Energy and Metabolism

• Membrane Structure and Function

• Cell Structure and Function

• Enzyme Regulation / Cell Signaling

• Cellular Respiration and Fermentation

• Photosynthesis

• Cell Division (Binary Fission, Cell Cycle, Mitosis)

• Meiosis / Sexual Reproduction

• Patterns of Inheritance

• DNA and Inheritance

• Gene Expression and Regulation

• Viruses

Key Concepts and Learning Objectives

Scientific Method and Nature of Science

Students will learn the process of scientific inquiry, including hypothesis formation, experimental design, and data analysis.

• Definition: The scientific method is a systematic approach to investigation involving observation, hypothesis, experimentation, and conclusion.

• Example: Testing the effect of light on plant growth by controlling variables and measuring outcomes.

Chemistry of Life

Understanding the chemical basis of biological molecules and the role of water in life.

• Key Terms: Atom, molecule, ion, covalent bond, hydrogen bond.

• Water Properties: Cohesion, adhesion, high specific heat, solvent abilities.

• Example: Water's polarity allows it to dissolve many substances essential for cellular processes.

Macromolecules

Exploration of the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

• Carbohydrates: Energy storage and structural components (e.g., glucose, starch).

• Lipids: Membrane structure, energy storage (e.g., phospholipids, triglycerides).

• Proteins: Enzymes, structural support, transport (e.g., hemoglobin, enzymes).

• Nucleic Acids: Genetic information storage and transfer (DNA, RNA).

Cell Structure and Function

Analysis of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures and their functions.

• Prokaryotic Cells: No nucleus, simple structure (e.g., bacteria).

• Eukaryotic Cells: Nucleus, membrane-bound organelles (e.g., plants, animals).

• Organelles: Nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus.

Membrane Structure and Function

Understanding the fluid mosaic model and mechanisms of transport across membranes.

• Fluid Mosaic Model: Describes the dynamic arrangement of phospholipids and proteins in the cell membrane.

• Transport Mechanisms: Diffusion, osmosis, active transport.

• Example: Sodium-potassium pump maintains cellular ion balance.

Metabolism and Enzymes

Study of metabolic pathways, enzyme function, and energy transformations in cells.

• Metabolism: All chemical reactions in a cell, including catabolism and anabolism.

• Enzymes: Biological catalysts that speed up reactions by lowering activation energy.

• Equation: $E_a$ (activation energy) is reduced by enzyme action.

Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis

Examination of how cells obtain energy from nutrients and convert light energy into chemical energy.

• Cellular Respiration: Process by which cells break down glucose to produce ATP.

• Equation: $C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + ATP$

• Photosynthesis: Conversion of light energy to chemical energy in plants.

• Equation: $6CO_2 + 6H_2O + light \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2$

Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis

Understanding the mechanisms and significance of cell division in growth, development, and reproduction.

• Mitosis: Produces two identical daughter cells for growth and repair.

• Meiosis: Produces four genetically unique gametes for sexual reproduction.

• Example: Human somatic cells divide by mitosis; gametes are produced by meiosis.

Patterns of Inheritance

Exploration of Mendelian genetics and inheritance patterns.

• Key Terms: Gene, allele, genotype, phenotype, dominant, recessive.

• Example: Mendel's pea plant experiments demonstrated inheritance laws.

DNA, Gene Expression, and Regulation

Study of DNA structure, replication, transcription, translation, and gene regulation.

• DNA Replication: Semi-conservative process ensuring genetic continuity.

• Transcription: DNA is transcribed to mRNA.

• Translation: mRNA is translated to protein.

• Gene Regulation: Control of gene expression at transcriptional and translational levels.

Viruses

Introduction to viral structure, replication, and impact on living organisms.

• Structure: Genetic material (DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat.

• Replication: Requires host cell machinery.

• Example: Influenza virus, HIV.

Grading and Assessment

Grading Scale

Grades are based on total points earned from exams, lab reports, and other assignments.

Percentage	Grade
90-100%	A
80-89%	B
70-79%	C
60-69%	D
59% and below	F

• Exams: Multiple exams and a comprehensive final exam.

• Lab Reports: Account for 35-40% of total course points.

• Attendance: Required; excessive absences may result in being dropped from the course.

Academic Integrity and Conduct

Expectations

Students are expected to maintain academic honesty and integrity. Plagiarism and sharing information between sections are strictly prohibited.

• Cell Phone Policy: Phones must be off or silenced during class; no recording without permission.

• Student Handbook: Students should review university policies on conduct and harassment.

Course Objectives

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the nature of science and the scientific method.

• Explain the process of evolution by natural selection.

• Demonstrate proper use of laboratory equipment and data collection.

• Write scientific papers based on collected data.

• Understand the role of water and macromolecules in cells.

• Describe cell structure and function, including organelles and membranes.

• Explain enzyme function, cellular respiration, and photosynthesis.

• Compare mitosis and meiosis, and explain errors in cell division.

• Describe DNA replication, transcription, and translation.

• Explain the relationship between gene expression and evolution.

Additional Information

• Prerequisites: High school chemistry or CHEM 1301 (or equivalent) and ACT score of 19 or higher.

• Office Hours: By appointment (email recommended).

• Disability Services: Contact the Office of Accessibility Resources for accommodations.

• Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with campus safety protocols.

Example Table: Grading Scale

Percentage	Letter Grade
90-100%	A
80-89%	B
70-79%	C
60-69%	D
59% and below	F

Additional info: This study guide is based on the official syllabus for General Biology I and is suitable for exam preparation and understanding course expectations.