General Biology I (BSCI) Syllabus and Study Guide

General Biology I (BSCI) Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of biology, focusing on the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. It is designed for students pursuing studies in biology and related fields, and satisfies the BSCI requirement for graduation. The course covers topics such as cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, physiology, and ecology.

• Lecture Times: 11:10-12:00 pm MWF in Todd Hall 116.

• Laboratories: Held in Eastlick Hall rooms G82 and G88 at various times.

• Prerequisites: One of the following: minimum ALEKS placement score of 40%, MATH 100 or 103, or 6 credits of biology with lab.

• Instructors: Dr. Sian Ritchie and Dr. Lisa Carlyon.

Course Topics

• Cell Biology: Structure and function of cells, including organelles and membranes.

• Genetics: Principles of inheritance, DNA structure and replication, gene expression.

• Evolution: Mechanisms of evolution, natural selection, speciation.

• Physiology: Basic physiological processes in plants and animals.

• Ecology: Interactions between organisms and their environments.

• Microbiology: Introduction to microorganisms and their roles.

Required Materials

• Textbook: Campbell Biology: In Focus 4th edition (Mastering included). Big 10 Digital Direct program provides access.

• Laboratory Manual: Biology 106 Organismal Biology Lab Manual (2025-2026) by various authors. Purchase online or at the Bookie.

Grading and Assessment

Your grade is determined by a combination of exams, laboratory work, homework, writing assignments, and participation. The grading scale and point breakdown are as follows:

Assessment	Points
Exams (5 @ 100 points each)	500
Lab (pre-lab & post-lab)	220
Writing Project	120
Homework/Participation	125
Lecture Polls	50
Total	1015

Additional info: Extra credit opportunities are available for engagement activities, up to 20 points total.

Grading Scale

Grade	Percent	Grade Points
A	93.0	4.0
A-	90.0	3.7
B+	87.0	3.3
B	83.0	3.0
B-	80.0	2.7
C+	77.0	2.3
C	73.0	2.0
D	60.0	1.0

Course Policies

• Attendance: Regular attendance is expected for both lectures and labs.

• Late Work: Polling and homework must be completed on schedule; no late homework is accepted. Writing assignments may be accepted up to 1 day late for documented reasons.

• Electronics Policy: Electronic devices may be used for note-taking, but not for non-course activities.

• Academic Integrity: All work must be your own; plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

Learning Support and Resources

• Canvas Website: All course materials, assignments, and grades are posted on Canvas.

• TA Lounge Hours: Opportunities for extra help and engagement outside of class.

• Mental Health Safety Valves: Policies to help manage stress, including drop-in hours and grace periods for assignments.

Assignments and Homework

• Pre-lecture Reading: Read assigned textbook chapters before each lecture.

• Homework: Complete online assignments and submit before the deadline.

• Writing Project: Craft a scientific report on a designated topic, including research and proper citation.

• Poll Everywhere: Participate in live polls during lectures for engagement points.

Exams

• Midterm Exams: Five exams throughout the semester, covering major topics.

• Final Exam: Cumulative, with opportunity for score recovery if needed.

Additional Information

• UCORE Requirement: This course satisfies the UCORE BSCI requirement, emphasizing scientific inquiry and critical thinking.

• Use of AI Platforms: AI tools may be used for writing and thinking, but proper citation is required.