Principles of Biology (BIO 113) – Study Guide and Course Overview

Principles of Biology

Course Introduction

This course provides a foundational overview of biology, focusing on the structure and function of cells, mechanisms of inheritance, ecology, and evolution. It integrates lecture and laboratory experiences to develop scientific literacy and laboratory skills.

• Course Code: BIO 113

• Credits: 4

• Format: Lecture & Laboratory

• Prerequisites: CHM 140 or higher-level chemistry course with a grade of C (2.0) or better, or consent of instructor.

Course Learning Outcomes

Skills and Knowledge Developed

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Develop confidence and proficiency in skills needed to succeed in college and become a scholar.

• Communicate effectively in science, including verbal and written communication of scientific ideas.

• Understand chemical context of life, such as properties of water and carbon.

• Develop scientific literacy and use methods of inquiry.

• Identify major classes of biologically important molecules, their operation, and location.

• Describe cell structure and function, including organelles and membranes.

• Explain cellular processes, such as metabolism and energy transformation.

• Describe mechanisms of cell reproduction and inheritance.

• Analyze and interpret genetic information, including how it is passed from generation to generation (Mendelian genetics).

• Indicate basic components of evolution via natural selection, mutations, and population genetics.

• Demonstrate quantitative literacy in biological contexts.

• Practice laboratory safety and demonstrate basic laboratory techniques.

Course Topics & Schedule

Main Topics Covered

The following topics are covered throughout the semester, integrating both lecture and laboratory experiences:

• Scientific Method & Measurement: Introduction to scientific inquiry, hypothesis testing, and data analysis.

• Properties of Water & Carbon: Chemical basis of life, importance of water and carbon in biological systems.

• Biological Molecules: Structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

• Organelles & Microscopes: Cell structure, organelle function, and microscopy techniques.

• Membranes & Processes: Membrane structure, transport mechanisms, and cellular processes.

• Sugar Metabolism: Cellular respiration and energy production.

• Cell Reproduction: Mitosis and meiosis, cell cycle regulation.

• Genetics & Inheritance: Mendelian genetics, chromosomes, inheritance patterns.

• DNA & RNA: Structure, replication, transcription, and translation.

• Population Genetics & Evolution: Natural selection, mutations, and evolutionary mechanisms.

Key Terms and Definitions

• Cell: The basic unit of life, consisting of cytoplasm enclosed within a membrane.

• Organelle: Specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function (e.g., nucleus, mitochondria).

• Metabolism: The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism.

• Genetics: The study of heredity and variation in organisms.

• Evolution: The change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations.

• Mitosis: A process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

• Meiosis: A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four gamete cells.

• Natural Selection: The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Important Equations and Concepts

• Genotype Frequency (Hardy-Weinberg Principle):

  • $p^2 + 2pq + q^2 = 1$

  • Where p and q are the frequencies of two alleles in a population.

• Photosynthesis Equation:

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

  • Describes the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using sunlight.

• Cellular Respiration Equation:

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

  • Describes the breakdown of glucose in the presence of oxygen to produce energy.

Sample Table: Comparison of Mitosis and Meiosis

Feature	Mitosis	Meiosis
Number of Divisions	1	2
Number of Daughter Cells	2	4
Genetic Composition	Identical to parent	Genetically unique
Chromosome Number	Diploid (2n)	Haploid (n)
Function	Growth, repair	Sexual reproduction

Academic Integrity and Laboratory Safety

Expectations and Conduct

• Academic Integrity: Students must avoid plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, and other forms of dishonesty. Intellectual integrity is essential for scholarly work.

• Plagiarism: Submitting someone else's work or ideas as your own is strictly prohibited.

• Cheating: Using unauthorized materials or aids during exams or assignments is not allowed.

• Fabrication: Falsifying or omitting data for deceptive purposes is a violation of academic conduct.

• Lab Safety: Proper attire (closed-toe shoes, lab coat) is required. Electronics and food/drink are not permitted in the lab. Know the hazards of equipment and chemicals before use.

Grading and Attendance

Course Assessment

• Exams: Three major exams and a comprehensive final exam.

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to assess understanding.

• Lab Assignments: Laboratory reports and practicals.

• Attendance: Expected at all lectures and labs; participation is essential for success.

Grading Scale:

Grade	Percentage
A	99-94
A-	93-90
B+	89-87
B	86-84
B-	83-80
C+	79-77
C	76-74
C-	73-70
D+	69-67
D	66-64
D-	63-60
F	59-0

Additional info:

• Students are encouraged to ask questions and seek help when needed.

• Disability accommodations are available through the university's office.

• Course materials include a textbook (Campbell Biology, 12th ed. or older) and access to online resources.