Genetics: Course Syllabus and Foundational Concepts

Course Information and Structure

Course Overview

This course, Biology 3304: Genetics, provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of genetics, including classical Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, and population genetics. The course is structured around lectures, reading assignments, homework, and examinations, with a focus on both conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.

• Instructors: Rick Jones ([e-mail]), Annika Wylie ([e-mail])

• Textbook: Genetics: A Conceptual Approach, 7th Ed., Benjamin A. Pierce

• Lecture Schedule: See detailed reading assignments and exam dates in the syllabus.

• Final Exam: Section 1: Thursday, December 11, 11:30AM; Section 2: Tuesday, December 16, 11:30AM

Grading and Assignments

• Hourly Exams: 2 x 125 points = 250 points

• Homeworks: 6 sets x 10 points each = 60 points

• Final Exam: 175 points

• Total Points: 485 points

• Grading Distribution:

  • 100-93%: A

  • 92.9-90%: A-

  • 89.9-87%: B+

  • 86.9-83%: B

  • 82.9-80%: B-

  • Etc.

• Make-up Exams: Only 2 of the 3 hourly exams count toward the final grade; the lowest score is dropped. The final exam is cumulative and mandatory.

Homework and Exams

• Homework assignments are available on Canvas and must be submitted online within one week.

• Collaboration is allowed for homework, but the purpose is exam preparation.

• Midterm exams are taken in class using Lockdown Browser on your laptop.

• A practice 'Mock Exam' must be completed in the first week to ensure technical compatibility.

Strategies for Success in Genetics

• Download lecture PowerPoint files before class.

• Read relevant textbook sections before lectures.

• Take and review notes promptly after class.

• Work through suggested problems and seek clarification as needed.

• Attend office hours or contact instructors for help.

• Be aware that exams are based entirely on class material.

Support Resources

• Genetics Tutor: Sneha Algole

• Help Sessions: Wednesdays, 3:00-4:30pm, Room 132 DLS

Foundational Concepts in Genetics

What is Genetics?

Genetics is the scientific study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics. It explores how traits are passed from parents to offspring and how genetic information is encoded, replicated, and expressed.

• Heredity: The process by which living organisms produce offspring with traits similar to themselves.

• Transmission Genetics: Focuses on the mechanisms by which genes are transferred from parent to offspring.

• Molecular Genetics: Examines the structure and function of genes at a molecular level.

• Population Genetics: Studies the distribution and change of allele frequencies in populations over time.

Figure 1.6 (Described): A Venn diagram illustrates the overlap and distinctions between transmission genetics, molecular genetics, and population genetics, with images representing heredity in animals and plants.