Principles of Organismal Biology: Introduction and Foundations

Course Overview

Introduction to BIOL 204: Principles of Organismal Biology

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of organismal biology, focusing on the diversity, structure, function, and evolution of living organisms. Students will explore the major groups of life, their physiological processes, ecological relationships, and the scientific methods used to study them.

• Instructor: Dr. Josh Corrie

• Office: Life Sciences South (LSS) 350

• Office Hours: Friday 10:00 – 11:00 AM (or by appointment; Zoom appointments available)

• Email: [e-mail]

• Learning Assistants: Allie Tappe, Shoshana Lescht-Smith

Course Structure and Content

Main Topics Covered

• Evolution and Systematics: Understanding the evolutionary relationships and classification of organisms.

• Microbial Diversity: Survey of bacteria, protists, and fungi.

• Plant and Algal Biology: Structure, function, and diversity of plants and algae.

• Animal Diversity and Function: Comparative study of animal groups and their physiological adaptations.

• Physiology, Reproduction, and Development: Fundamental biological processes in various organisms.

• Ecology and Conservation: Ecological interactions and causes of species endangerment.

Learning Objectives

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

• Describe the phylogenetic relationships and key features of major life groups.

• Explain basic biological processes and systems common to all organisms.

• Analyze significant ecological relationships and the impact of environmental changes.

Course Format and Assessment

Class Meetings and Assignments

• Lectures: Three per week (Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM), with a mix of in-person and online components.

• Pre-lecture Assignments: Due before each lecture via Mastering Biology.

• In-class Participation: Learning Catalytics questions during lectures.

• Weekly Quizzes: Available online, with the lowest score dropped.

• Exams: Four exams (first three non-cumulative, final exam partially cumulative).

Grading Breakdown

Component	Weight
Exams (in-person/online)	70%
Quizzes (lowest dropped)	10%
Pre-exam Quizzes (lowest dropped)	10%
Homework Assignments	5%
Participation (Learning Catalytics)	5%
Total	100%

Required Materials and Online Components

• Mastering Biology: Required for online assignments and pre-lecture work. Register via Canvas.

• Learning Catalytics: Integrated with Mastering Biology for in-class participation.

• Respondus Lockdown Browser: Required for online exams.

Expectations and Student Goals

• Engage actively with course materials and assignments.

• Participate in lectures and online activities.

• Utilize office hours and learning assistants for support.

• Develop a foundational understanding of organismal biology for future coursework and scientific literacy.

Additional Information

• Access the full syllabus and schedule via Canvas.

• A syllabus quiz will be available on Canvas to ensure understanding of course policies.

• Lab course (BIOL 204L) is graded separately and coordinated by Dr. Eric Ekdale.