General Biology I: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

General Biology I: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Content and Objectives

Major Topics Covered

• Cell Biology: Structure and function of cells, cellular components, and processes.

• Molecular Biology: DNA, RNA, protein synthesis, and gene expression.

• Genetics: Mendelian and molecular genetics, inheritance patterns.

• Evolution: Principles of evolution, natural selection, and the diversity of life.

• Ecology: Interactions among organisms and their environments.

• Experimental Design: Scientific method, hypothesis testing, and data analysis.

Content Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Describe the relationship between genotype and phenotype as described by the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology.

2. List the principles of Cell Theory and explain the contribution of biological macromolecules to cellular structure and function.

3. Describe the major features and organization of cells, organisms, and the biosphere.

4. Describe the mechanisms of evolution and how they affect biodiversity.

5. Describe the major interactions of individuals, populations, and communities in the biosphere.

6. Describe evolutionary relationships between major groups of organisms on Earth.

7. Describe how the major topics covered by this course are integrated across spatial and temporal scales.

Skills Objectives

• Find and interpret primary literature and apply concepts to scientific questions.

• Design and execute experiments that test hypotheses (Critical Thinking).

• Interpret and present scientific data in written or oral formats (Communication).

• Demonstrate resourcefulness and responsibility in the learning process.

• Recognize lifestyle requirements to meet personal and academic needs.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

• Major Biology Principles: Identify and describe the major principles of biology.

• Cell & Molecular Bio Principles: Analyze and apply the major principles of cell and molecular biology.

• Ecology & Evolution Principles: Analyze and apply the major principles of ecology and evolution.

• Biological Concepts: Integrate principles across biology and chemistry.

• Experimental Design: Evaluate, interpret, and design experiments.

• Oral Communication: Communicate effectively in multiple contexts.

• Group Collaboration: Collaborate effectively in group settings.

• Professional Performance: Perform competently in a professional setting.

Key Definitions and Concepts

• Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism.

• Phenotype: The observable characteristics of an organism.

• Central Dogma of Molecular Biology: The flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein.

• Cell Theory: The theory that all living things are composed of cells, and that the cell is the basic unit of life.

• Evolution: The process by which populations of organisms change over generations.

• Ecology: The study of interactions among organisms and their environment.

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

Example: Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

• Definition: The process by which genetic information is transferred from DNA to RNA to protein.

• Equation:

$\text{DNA} \rightarrow \text{RNA} \rightarrow \text{Protein}$

• Application: Mutations in DNA can lead to changes in the protein produced, affecting the phenotype.

Additional Information

• Students are encouraged to use the textbook, online resources, and office hours for additional support.

• All assignments and grades will be managed through Canvas and Pearson.