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General Biology: Organismic Biology – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

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General Biology: Organismic Biology

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the diversity of organisms on Earth, focusing on the relationship between structure and function. It covers the diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, emphasizing structure, function, ecology, and evolution. The course is designed for biology majors and selected health sciences majors.

  • Course Number and Section: BIOL 1300-007

  • Term: Fall 2025

  • Course Dates: August 25 – December 20, 2025

  • Prerequisites: High school biology and chemistry or consent of instructor

  • Credit Hours: 3

Class Meeting Times and Location

  • Days: Tuesday AND Thursday

  • Start Time: 8:00 AM

  • End Time: 9:15 AM

  • Room: B136

Instructor Information

  • Name: Jennifer Wawrzonek, MS

  • Email: jwawrzon@uccs.edu

  • Office Location: Webex

  • Office Hours: By appointment

Important Dates

  • Census Date (Last day to drop with refund): September 11, 2025

  • Withdrawal Date (Last day to drop without instructor/academic dean approval): October 31, 2025

  • Finals Week: December 15-18, 2025

  • Holidays: Labor Day (September 1), Fall Break (November 24-28)

Course Materials

Required Materials

  • Internet access, camera, and microphone: Required for online activities and exams.

  • Textbook: Biology: Campbell Biology (12th ed) by Urry, Cain, Wasserman, Minorsky, Orr. ISBN 9780135898846. Online version accessed via Vital Source in Canvas under the TAAP program.

  • Calculator: Basic or scientific, non-graphing calculator.

  • AccuScan Answer Sheets: Blue AccuScan answer sheets (not green Scantrons).

Learning Goals

Course Objectives

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

  • Describe the scientific method and the process of scientific inquiry.

  • Analyze and interpret data.

  • Apply scientific knowledge and critical thinking to evaluate current societal concerns.

  • Explain how evolution is a unifying theme in biology.

  • Describe the characteristics of and compare organisms from the domains and kingdoms of life.

  • Discuss the relationship between structure and function in living organisms.

  • Communicate scientific information effectively.

Course Structure and Resources

Canvas LMS

  • Announcements: Posted regularly for updates, schedule changes, and clarifications.

  • Weekly Folders: Contain readings, PowerPoint slides, videos, animations, tutorials, quizzes, and assignments.

  • Vital Source: Digital copy of the textbook available for homework and reading assignments.

  • Discussions: Online discussion threads for course questions and peer interaction.

Course Assessments

Assessment Types

  • Final Exam: Cumulative, 200 points, covers all course content.

  • Quizzes: Four online exams, 80 points each. Exams are timed and require Respondus LockDown Browser and webcam monitoring.

  • Person Mastering Biology Homework Assignments: 20 points each, based on textbook companion site activities and publisher assignments.

  • Biology Undergraduate Research Project: 100 points, includes project and presentation.

Exam Policies

  • Exams require webcam and LockDown Browser. Students must show face and shoulders on camera throughout the exam.

  • No hats, hoods, headphones, or sunglasses allowed during exams.

  • Students with accommodations must arrange with Disability Services at least two days prior to the exam.

  • No make-up exams except for documented emergencies.

Grading Policy

  • Grades are posted on Canvas as soon as assignments are graded.

  • Extra credit opportunities are available for participation in discussions and other activities.

Grading Scale

Letter Grade

Percentage

A

93.00% and above

A-

90.00 – 92.99%

B+

87.00 – 89.99%

B

83.00 – 86.99%

B-

80.00 – 82.99%

C+

77.00 – 79.99%

C

73.00 – 76.99%

C-

70.00 – 72.99%

D+

67.00 – 69.99%

D

60.00 – 66.99%

F

59.99% and below

Course Expectations

Academic Integrity

  • Plagiarism, cheating, or other forms of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated.

  • Students must not knowingly contribute to the dishonesty of others.

  • Cheating includes sharing answers, posting work online for others, or using unauthorized resources during exams.

For more information, see the UCCS Academic Honor Code.

Study Tips and Success Strategies

  • Ask Questions: Seek clarification from your instructor, classmates, or academic peers when struggling with material.

  • Comprehension: Read and understand material at a level that allows you to analyze and evaluate it.

  • Work on Recall: Practice recalling information from memory to prepare for exams.

  • Get Organized: Track class schedules and assignments, and plan ahead for exams and projects.

  • Stay Connected: Utilize campus resources such as tutoring and study groups.

Summary Table: Course Components and Points

Component

Points

Discussions

50

Quizzes

80

Mastering Biology Homework

20

Biology Undergraduate Research Project

100

Cumulative Final Exam

200

Total Possible Points

~900

Additional Info

  • Students are expected to spend significant time outside of class reading, studying, and completing assignments.

  • Course covers both prokaryotic and eukaryotic diversity, structure, function, ecology, and evolution.

  • Critical thinking, scientific communication, and data analysis are emphasized throughout the course.

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