Mesa College BIOL 107: General Biology Syllabus and Course Structure (Summer 2026)

Course Overview

Introduction to General Biology (BIOL 107)

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of biology, focusing on the chemical and physical processes common to all living organisms, their interactions with the environment, and the foundational concepts of genetics, metabolism, anatomy, physiology, evolution, and ecology. The course is designed for students pursuing further studies in life sciences or related fields.

• Lecture and Laboratory: 4 units, including both lecture and hands-on laboratory work.

• Transferable: Meets requirements for AA/AS, CSU, and UC (with limitations).

• Prerequisites: Recommended preparation in English and Mathematics.

Course Structure and Weekly Topics

Lecture Topics and Sequence

The course is organized into weekly modules, each covering key topics in biology. The following is a summary of the main topics addressed throughout the semester:

• Week 1: Introduction, Scientific Method, Organic Chemistry/Biochemistry

• Week 2: Cells, Enzymes & Energy

• Week 3: Respiration & Photosynthesis, Cell Division

• Week 4: Genetics, Molecular Biology

• Week 5: Gene Expression, Biotechnology

• Week 6: Natural Selection & Evolution, Microbes

• Week 7: Survey of Life on Earth (Plants, Fungi, Animals)

• Week 8: Human Population & Ecosystems, Review and Final Exam

Laboratory Topics

Laboratory exercises are designed to reinforce lecture concepts through hands-on experimentation and observation. Key lab topics include:

• Lab Safety and the Scientific Method

• Biological Molecules

• Microscopy & Cells

• Cell Transport

• Enzymes

• Cellular Metabolism

• DNA and Chromosomes

• DNA Technology

• Cancer

• Genetics, Inheritance & Disease

• Natural Selection & Evolution

• Local Terrestrial Adaptations

• Ecosystems

Course Learning Objectives

Key Competencies

• Scientific Method: Apply the process of science to problem-solving and design procedural steps for investigations.

• Ecology: Explain and evaluate basic ecological concepts and organism-environment interactions.

• Evolution: Describe evolution and speciation, linking molecular, classical, and population genetics.

• Chemistry of Life: Define atoms, molecules, compounds, and chemical bonds; identify biological molecules and their functions.

• Cell Biology: State cell theory; compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

• Metabolism: Interpret cellular metabolism, including enzymes, respiration, and photosynthesis.

• Genetics: Apply Mendelian principles and their exceptions; describe DNA replication, protein synthesis, mutation, and biotechnology.

• Development: Compare mechanisms of reproduction, growth, and development among organisms.

Course Requirements and Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Regular attendance and participation are required for success.

• Active engagement in lectures, labs, quizzes, and discussions is expected.

• Absences may result in being dropped from the course.

Assignments and Grading

• Lecture Assignments: Weekly assignments posted on Canvas.

• Lab Reports: Completion and submission of lab manual exercises.

• Quizzes: Weekly quizzes for both lecture and lab topics.

• Exams: Three semester exams, one final exam (multiple formats).

• Discussion Forums: Eight research-based discussions requiring critical analysis and peer replies.

• Grading Scale:

  • A: 900–1000 points (90–100%)

  • B: 800–890 points (80–89%)

  • C: 700–790 points (70–79%)

  • D: 600–690 points (60–69%)

  • F: 0–590 points (0–59%)

• Late work receives a 20% deduction; no make-up for on-campus quizzes/exams except for medical reasons.

Academic Integrity

• Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

• Proper citation (MLA format) is required for all written work.

• Use of AI-generated content is not permitted without explicit instructor permission.

Student Support and Conduct

Diversity and Respectful Conduct

• The classroom is a supportive environment that values diversity and respectful interaction.

• Netiquette guidelines apply to all online and in-person communications.

Support Services

• Student support services are available for health, disability, veterans, and academic needs.

• Students with disabilities should contact the instructor for accommodations.

Course Map and Canvas Navigation

• Announcements, syllabus, modules, quizzes, discussions, assignments, grades, calendar, inbox, and help are all accessible via Canvas.

• Weekly modules contain all necessary materials and assignments for each week.

Lab Safety and PPE Regulations

• No food or drinks in the lab.

• Wear close-toed shoes, pants, and tops covering the stomach/shoulders.

• Use gloves, splash goggles, and aprons as required (provided for most labs).