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Principles of Genetics – Syllabus and Study Guide

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Principles of Genetics (PCB3060) – Syllabus Overview

Course Description

This course introduces the mechanisms of transmission of hereditary information. Students will learn the classical Mendelian principles of heredity, the foundation of modern genetics, and the molecular basis of genetic inheritance. Topics include Mendelian genetics, population genetics, gene expression and regulation, genetic analysis, linkage and mapping, and genetics of population variation and mutation. The genetics of cancer and other genetic disorders are also discussed.

  • Mendelian Genetics: Study of inheritance patterns based on Gregor Mendel's laws.

  • Classical Genetics: Includes chromosomal theory and gene mapping.

  • Population Genetics: Analysis of genetic variation within populations.

  • Gene Expression & Regulation: Mechanisms controlling how genes are turned on/off.

  • Genetic Disorders: Examination of mutations and diseases such as cancer.

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion, students will have a basic understanding of:

  • Mendelian or Classical Genetics

  • Deviations from Classical Genetics

  • History and Principles of Modern Genetics

  • Population Genetics

Organization & Learning Modalities

Lecture Format

  • Lectures are delivered in-person (F2F) with synchronous and asynchronous online components.

  • Attendance is required and tracked.

  • Online assignments, quizzes, and assessments are completed via Canvas and Mastering Genetics (MG).

Textbook

  • Concepts of Genetics, William Klug et al., Benjamin Cummings, Pearson. 12th Edition. ISBN: 9780134833707

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Communication: Listening, writing, and speaking skills effectively.

  • Numbers/Data Analysis: Ability to evaluate and process numerical data.

  • Critical Thinking: Solve problems using critical thinking and scientific information.

  • Information Literacy: Locate, evaluate, and apply information.

  • Technology Usage: Use emerging technologies efficiently.

Grading & Assessments

Grading Components

Assessment

Weight (%)

1st Exam

13.3%

Midterm

13.3%

Final

13.3%

Quizzes

20%

Papers

20%

Assignments (including MG)

20%

Grade Scale

Grade

Score (%)

A

90 - 100

B

80 - 89

C

70 - 79

D

60 - 69

F

Below 60

Attendance & Policies

  • Attendance: Required for all scheduled class sessions. Absences must be notified in advance.

  • Make-up Work: No make-ups for quizzes or exams. Missed work receives a zero grade.

  • Withdrawal: Last day to withdraw is Oct. 29. Excessive absences may result in withdrawal.

  • Punctuality: Students are expected to be on time and prepared.

Technology & Online Resources

  • Canvas and Mastering Genetics (MG) are required for assignments and quizzes.

  • Students must have access to a computer and internet.

  • Exams are administered online using secure proctoring tools.

Student & Campus Resources

  • Student Portal: https://mdc.edu

  • Admissions and Registration: link

  • Academic and Career Advisement: link

  • ACCESS Disability Services: link

  • Student Life: link

  • TRiO Student Support Services: link

  • SingleStop: link

  • Learning Resources: link

Tips for Success in Genetics

  • Spend 1–2 hours outside of class for every hour in class.

  • Read assigned textbook chapters before class.

  • Review notes and study regularly, not just before exams.

  • Form study groups for mutual support.

  • Balance work and play to avoid burnout.

Key Genetics Topics (Expanded Academic Context)

Mendelian Genetics

Mendelian genetics is the study of how traits are inherited according to the laws established by Gregor Mendel. These laws form the foundation of classical genetics.

  • Law of Segregation: Each individual has two alleles for each gene, which segregate during gamete formation.

  • Law of Independent Assortment: Genes for different traits assort independently during gamete formation.

  • Example: In pea plants, the allele for tallness (T) is dominant over shortness (t).

Population Genetics

Population genetics examines the distribution and changes of allele frequencies under the influence of evolutionary processes.

  • Hardy-Weinberg Principle: Describes genetic equilibrium in a population.

  • Equation:

  • p: Frequency of dominant allele

  • q: Frequency of recessive allele

Gene Expression & Regulation

Gene expression refers to the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products (proteins or RNA). Regulation ensures genes are expressed at the right time and amount.

  • Transcription: DNA is transcribed to mRNA.

  • Translation: mRNA is translated to protein.

  • Regulatory Elements: Promoters, enhancers, and silencers control gene activity.

Genetic Disorders & Mutations

Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic disorders. Some mutations are inherited, while others occur spontaneously.

  • Types of Mutations: Point mutations, insertions, deletions.

  • Example: Sickle cell anemia is caused by a point mutation in the hemoglobin gene.

Classical vs. Modern Genetics

Classical Genetics

Modern Genetics

Focuses on inheritance patterns and gene mapping

Includes molecular biology, genomics, and biotechnology

Uses observable traits (phenotypes)

Uses DNA sequencing and molecular markers

Additional info: These expanded academic contexts are inferred from standard genetics curricula and the syllabus outline.

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