General Biology I (BIOL 240) – Course Overview and Study Guide

General Biology I (BIOL 240) – Course Overview

Introduction

This study guide summarizes the key information and academic expectations for General Biology I (BIOL 240), a foundational course for biology majors and other science students. The course covers core biological principles, scientific reasoning, and laboratory skills, preparing students for advanced study in the life sciences.

Course Structure and Logistics

Course Staff and Contact Information

• Lecture Professor: Dr. Mark Running ([e-mail])

• Recitation Instructors: Dr. Muhammad Azmat Khan, Dr. Shamus Babcock

• Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) Facilitator: Adnan Shaikh

• Undergraduate Teaching Assistants (UTAs): Laura Clark, Alexandra Ellison, Navyal Gill, Pranjal Sharma

Class and Recitation Times

• Lecture: Tue and Thu, 2:30 – 3:45 PM (Humanities Building, Bingham 100)

• Recitation Sections: Multiple options, each 50 minutes, in BABT10A

Textbook

• Primary Text: Campbell Biology (12th Edition) or 11th Edition (Pearson)

• Earlier editions may be used, but students are responsible for any differences in content or page numbers.

Prerequisites

• ACT score of 24+ or SAT score of 540+ (math section), or completion of BIOL 104/105 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.

Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Student Learning Outcomes

Students will develop an understanding of the laws of nature and the physical world, with the following specific outcomes:

Objective	Assessment
1. Demonstrate understanding of the nature and methods of science in biology.	Understanding assessed on tests and homework; written assignments and data interpretation.
2. Apply scientific principles to interpret evidence, make predictions, and/or solve problems in the context of one or more sciences.	Interpretation, making hypotheses, interpreting evidence, homework, and tests.
3. Explain how scientific principles relate to issues of personal and societal importance.	Some homework assignments will cover the practical importance of scientific knowledge; written lab homework or tests.
4. Communicate effectively in an understanding of scientific concepts and experimental results in speech or writing, using documentation and citation appropriate to the discipline.	Some homework and tests will assess communication skills and proper citation.

Course Components and Grading

Grading Breakdown

Component	Points
4 Exams (100 points each)	400
24 In-Class Participation (2 pts each)	48
4 Homework Assignments (24 pts each)	96
13 Recitation Quizzes (8 pts each, lowest dropped)	96
Total	640

Grading Scale

Percentage	Points	Grade
88–100%	563 to 640	A
78–87%	499 to 562	B
68–77%	435 to 498	C
58–67%	371 to 434	D
<58%	0 to 370	F

Assessment Details

• Exams: Four exams, each worth 100 points, consisting of multiple-choice questions. Exams are closed-book and timed (75 minutes each). No calculators or electronic devices allowed.

• In-Class Participation: 24 opportunities (2 points each) for participation in lecture through attendance and activities.

• Homework: Four assignments (24 points each) to be submitted on UofL's Blackboard (Bb). Assignments are due before each exam and must be completed individually.

• Recitation Quizzes: 13 quizzes (8 points each; lowest score dropped). Quizzes are based on recitation content and are designed to reinforce lecture material.

• Extra Credit: Limited extra credit may be offered for class participation or other activities, not to exceed 2% of total available points.

Academic Policies and Guidelines

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is expected for all lectures and recitations. Absences must be excused in advance or with documentation (e.g., illness, university-sponsored events).

• Students arriving more than 10 minutes late to recitation may not receive credit for attendance.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating, plagiarism, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in disciplinary action, including a failing grade for the assignment or course.

• All work must be completed individually unless otherwise specified.

Makeup Exams and Assignments

• Makeup exams are only given for excused absences and must be arranged in advance or as soon as possible after the missed exam.

• Makeup exams may differ in format from the original exam.

Disability and Accessibility Services

• Students requiring accommodations should contact the Disability Resource Center and provide documentation to both the professor and recitation instructor.

Scientific Principles and Skills Emphasized

Nature and Methods of Science

• Scientific Method: A systematic approach to inquiry involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis.

• Data Interpretation: Ability to analyze and draw conclusions from scientific data, including graphs and tables.

• Communication: Presenting scientific findings clearly in both written and oral formats, using appropriate citation and documentation.

Application of Scientific Principles

• Applying biological concepts to solve problems and make predictions about living systems.

• Understanding the relevance of biology to personal and societal issues, such as health, environment, and technology.

Examples and Applications

• Example: Using the scientific method to design an experiment testing the effect of light on plant growth.

• Application: Interpreting data from a genetics experiment to predict inheritance patterns.

Summary

General Biology I (BIOL 240) provides a comprehensive introduction to biological principles, scientific reasoning, and laboratory skills. Success in this course requires active participation, completion of assignments, and adherence to academic integrity policies. The skills and knowledge gained will form the foundation for further study in biology and related fields.