General Biology Syllabus and Study Guide: Core Concepts and Course Structure

General Biology: Course Overview

Course Description

This General Biology course is designed as an integrative Learning Core course, providing foundational knowledge in biological science. It covers essential topics such as cell biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution. The curriculum emphasizes the development of analytical skills and the ability to apply biological concepts to new situations, preparing students for advanced study and careers in science.

• Not for degree credit for students majoring in biological science.

• Topics include: Cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution.

• Integrative Learning Core (ILC): Focuses on inquiry, analysis, and the ability to transfer learning to new contexts.

Course Structure and Expectations

Class Schedule

• MWF: 2:30-3:30, Williams Hall Room 103

• TTh: 10:30-12:50, Williams Hall Room 102

Required Textbook

• Title: Biology

• Publisher: Pearson Publishing Company

Class Expectations

• For each credit hour, students should expect to spend at least two hours studying outside of class.

• Includes reading chapters, reviewing notes, and completing assignments.

Class Conduct

• Adherence to the LSU Code of Student Conduct is required.

• Academic integrity and respectful behavior are expected.

Assessment

• Class Participation: May include response systems, assignments, and in-class activities. At least 20% of questions on exams and homework will align with ILC proficiency.

• Homework: Quizzes and activities for each chapter.

• Exams: Four exams during the semester, plus a final exam. Each exam covers multiple chapters and includes questions aligned with ILC proficiency.

Grading Breakdown

Assessment	Percentage
Homework	16.67
Class Participation	16.67
Exam 1	16.67
Exam 2	16.67
Exam 3	16.67
Exam 4	16.67
Total	100

Final Grade Scale

Final Grade	Percent	Final Grade	Percent	Final Grade	Percent
A+	100-97	B-	82.99-80	D	66.99-63
A	96.99-93	C+	79.99-77	D-	62.99-60
A-	92.99-90	C	76.99-73	F	<60
B+	89.99-87	C-	72.99-70
B	86.99-83	D+	69.99-67

Course Topics and Weekly Schedule

Weekly Breakdown

Week	Dates	Topic(s)
1	Aug	Introduction to Course, An Introduction to the Life on Earth (Ch 1)
2	Sep 2-5	Atoms, Molecules, and Life (Ch 2); Biological Molecules (Ch 3)
3	Sep 8-12	Biological Molecules (Ch 3); Cell Structure and Function (Ch 4)
4	Sep 15-19	Cell Structure and Function (Ch 4); Cell Membrane Structure and Function (Ch 5)
5	Sep 22-26	Energy Flow in the Life of the Cell (Ch 6)
6	Sep 29-Oct 3	Capturing Solar Energy: Photosynthesis (Ch 7); Harvesting Energy: Glycolysis and Cellular Respiration (Ch 8)
7	Oct 6-10	Harvesting Energy: Glycolysis and Cellular Respiration (Ch 8); Cellular Reproduction (Ch 9)
8	Oct 13-15	Meiosis: The Basis of Sexual Reproduction (Ch 10)
9	Oct 20-24	Patterns of Inheritance (Ch 11); DNA: The Molecule of Life (Ch 12)
10	Oct 27-31	DNA: The Molecule of Life (Ch 12); Gene Expression and Regulation (Ch 13)
11	Nov 3-7	Biotechnology (Ch 14)
12	Nov 10-14	Principles of Evolution (Ch 15)
13	Nov 17-21	The Origin of Species (Ch 17); The History of Life (Ch 18)
14	Nov 24-25	Population Growth and Regulation (Ch 27); Community Interactions (Ch 28)
15	Dec 1-5	Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycling in Ecosystems (Ch 29)

Key Topics and Concepts

Atoms, Molecules, and Life

Understanding the chemical basis of life is essential in biology. Atoms combine to form molecules, which are the building blocks of cells and organisms.

• Atom: The smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.

• Molecule: Two or more atoms bonded together.

• Biological molecules: Include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

• Example: Water (H2O) is a vital molecule for life.

Cell Structure and Function

Cells are the basic units of life. Their structure determines their function in living organisms.

• Prokaryotic cells: Lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

• Eukaryotic cells: Have a nucleus and organelles.

• Cell membrane: Regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

• Example: Red blood cells transport oxygen using the protein hemoglobin.

Energy Flow in Cells

Cells require energy to perform functions. Energy is captured and converted through metabolic pathways.

• Photosynthesis: Process by which plants convert solar energy into chemical energy.

• Cellular respiration: Converts glucose into ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

• Equation for cellular respiration:

$C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + \text{ATP}$

Genetics and Inheritance

Genetics is the study of heredity and variation in organisms. Inheritance patterns explain how traits are passed from parents to offspring.

• Gene: A segment of DNA that codes for a protein.

• Allele: Different forms of a gene.

• Example: Mendelian inheritance describes dominant and recessive traits.

DNA and Gene Expression

DNA is the molecule of heredity. Gene expression involves transcription and translation, leading to protein synthesis.

• DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, stores genetic information.

• Transcription: DNA is copied into RNA.

• Translation: RNA is used to build proteins.

• Example: The genetic code determines amino acid sequences in proteins.

Biotechnology

Biotechnology applies biological knowledge to develop technologies and products for health, agriculture, and industry.

• Genetic engineering: Manipulation of DNA to produce desired traits.

• Example: Production of insulin using recombinant DNA technology.

Evolution and Speciation

Evolution explains the diversity of life through natural selection and genetic change over time.

• Natural selection: Process by which advantageous traits become more common in a population.

• Speciation: Formation of new species.

• Example: Darwin's finches demonstrate adaptive radiation.

Ecology and Ecosystems

Ecology studies interactions among organisms and their environment. Ecosystems involve energy flow and nutrient cycling.

• Population: Group of individuals of the same species in an area.

• Community: All populations in a given area.

• Energy flow: Movement of energy through food webs.

• Example: Producers, consumers, and decomposers in a forest ecosystem.

Attendance and Policies

Attendance

• Attendance is required for all classes and assignments.

• Valid reasons for absence include illness, emergencies, religious observances, and official university events.

Students with Disabilities

• Accommodations are available through the Office of Disability Services.

Academic Integrity

• All students must adhere to the LSU Code of Student Conduct.

• Violations may result in sanctions.

Summary Table: Major Biological Concepts

Concept	Definition	Example
Cell	Basic unit of life	Neuron, red blood cell
Gene	Segment of DNA coding for a trait	Gene for eye color
Photosynthesis	Conversion of light energy to chemical energy	Plant leaves producing glucose
Evolution	Change in species over time	Development of antibiotic resistance
Ecosystem	Community of organisms and environment	Rainforest, coral reef

Additional info: These notes are based on the syllabus and weekly schedule, providing a structured overview of the course content and expectations for General Biology. For detailed study, refer to the assigned textbook chapters and lecture materials.