General Information

Course Description

BIO 150 General Biology for Majors Lecture This course introduces students to fundamental strategies and introductory knowledge within the core concepts of biology, including evolution, structure and function relationships, the flow, exchange, and storage of information, major pathways and transformations of energy and matter, and the living systems as integrated and interconnected entities. It is the first course of a three-course sequence for biology and related science majors. Corequisite: Take BIO 150L.

BIO 150L General Biology for Majors Lab The laboratory uses an investigative/inquiry-based approach to develop competence in scientific investigation, experimental design, analysis, and scientific communication and collaboration.

Course Objectives and Core Competencies

Science as a Way of Knowing

Students will learn how science is different from other kinds of inquiry and why it is important. The course emphasizes the scientific method, hypothesis testing, and the value of evidence-based reasoning.

• Scientific Method: A systematic approach to investigation involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis.

• Critical Thinking: Evaluating evidence and arguments to make informed decisions.

• Application: Understanding how scientific knowledge is generated and validated.

Atoms, Bonds, and Molecules

This topic covers the basic chemical building blocks of life, including atoms, chemical bonds, and molecules.

• Atoms: The smallest units of matter, composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

• Chemical Bonds: Interactions that hold atoms together, including ionic, covalent, and hydrogen bonds.

• Molecules: Combinations of atoms that form the chemical basis of biological structures.

• Example: Water (H2O) is a polar molecule essential for life.

Macromolecules: Structure and Biology

Macromolecules are large, complex molecules that play critical roles in biological systems.

• Types: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

• Functions: Energy storage, structural support, catalysis (enzymes), and information storage (DNA/RNA).

• Example: Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions.

Enzymes and Catalysis

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in cells.

• Definition: Enzymes lower the activation energy required for reactions.

• Application: Enzyme activity is regulated by factors such as temperature, pH, and substrate concentration.

• Equation: (Enzyme + Substrate forms Enzyme-Substrate complex, which yields Enzyme + Product)

Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

Comparison of the structural and functional differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

• Prokaryotes: Cells without a nucleus (e.g., bacteria).

• Eukaryotes: Cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., plants, animals).

• Table:

Cellular Processes: Energy and Metabolism

Explores how cells obtain and use energy, including photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

• Photosynthesis: Conversion of light energy into chemical energy by plants and some bacteria.

• Cellular Respiration: Breakdown of glucose to produce ATP.

• Fermentation: Anaerobic process to generate energy when oxygen is absent.

Anatomy and Physiology

Examines the organization and function of major organ systems in animals.

• Organ Systems: Groups of organs that work together to perform specific functions (e.g., nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine systems).

• Homeostasis: Maintenance of stable internal conditions.

• Example: The nervous system coordinates responses to stimuli.

Course Skill Development

Critical Thinking, Teamwork, and Leadership

Students will develop skills in problem-based learning, collaboration, and effective communication.

• Equity and Inclusion: Engaging with diverse perspectives in science.

• Technical Skills: Using online platforms and scientific tools.

• Professionalism: Practicing scientific writing and presentation.

Course Materials

• Textbooks: Knisely, Karin. 2021. A Student Handbook for Writing in Biology. 6th Ed. Sinauer Associates. ISBN: 9781319340382 or 9781319340429.

• Online Resources: Mastering Biology Online Study System (ISBN: 9780135189386 with Basic License).

• Lab Equipment: Biology goggles, lab notebooks.

• Optional Text: Urry, L.A., et al. Campbell Biology, 12th Edition. ISBN: 978-0135188743.

Lecture and Lab Schedule Overview

Major Topics by Week

Grading and Success Tips

• Grading Scale: A (93-100), A- (90-92), B+ (87-89), B (83-86), B- (80-82), etc.

• Minimum Passing Grade: C (70%) required for progression.

• Success Tips: Attend lectures and labs, participate in group work, complete assignments, and use provided resources.

Additional info:

• Some content inferred from syllabus structure and standard biology curriculum.

• Equations and tables added for clarity and completeness.