Course Introduction

Overview of BIOL1000 Section B

This course, Biology I: Cells, Molecular Biology, and Genetics, introduces students to foundational concepts in biology, focusing on cellular structure and function, molecular biology, and genetics. The course is taught by Dr. Nicole Nivillac and includes lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions.

• Instructor: Dr. Nicole Nivillac

• E-mail: b1000lec@yorku.ca

• Lecture Times: Mon, Wed, Fri 1:30-2:20pm (CLH I)

• Office Hours: Wednesdays 9:00am-10:00am (Zoom link on eClass)

Course Policies and Etiquette

Copyright and Academic Misconduct

All course materials, including lecture recordings, activities, quizzes, and laboratories, are for personal study use only. Unauthorized distribution is strictly prohibited and may result in academic misconduct charges under York University Senate Policy and Canadian Copyright Law.

• Do not share, download, or distribute course materials.

• Unauthorized distribution includes sharing or uploading materials online.

Classroom Etiquette

Respectful behavior is expected in all classes and tutorials to maintain a productive learning environment.

• Do not engage in disruptive activities such as talking, texting, watching videos, listening to loud music, singing, humming, arriving late, or leaving early.

• Be considerate of classmates and the instructor.

Recording Lectures

Photographs and video recordings are not permitted during lectures. Official lecture recordings will be posted on eClass within 48 hours after the lecture ends.

• Some images and materials are copyrighted and cannot be reproduced.

E-mail Etiquette

Professional communication is required when contacting the instructor or teaching staff.

• Use a clear subject line (e.g., "BIOL1000B – Question regarding Gene Expression").

• Write in formal letter format with proper salutation (e.g., "Hello Dr. Nivillac" not "Hi Nicole").

• Use full sentences, proper spelling, and avoid texting acronyms.

• Include your name and student number at the end of the email.

Use of Generative AI Technology

Students are not authorized to use generative AI tools (text, image, code, or video) for academic work unless explicitly permitted by the instructor. Unauthorized use may be considered cheating or plagiarism under York's Senate Policy on Academic Honesty.

• Cheating includes obtaining assistance by means not approved by the instructor.

• Plagiarism includes presenting another's work as your own without proper attribution.

• Refer to the full document on eClass for additional policies regarding AI use in BIOL1000.

Course Materials

Required Texts and Resources

• Textbook: Biological Science, 4th Canadian Edition, Pearson (2024).

• Lab Manual: Available in the bookstore; required for laboratory sessions.

• Mastering Biology Account: Details provided in the lab manual and on eClass.

• REEF Account: Used for in-class polling; see eClass for setup instructions.

Course Structure and Learning Outcomes

Main Themes and Concepts

The course covers major unifying concepts and fundamental principles of biology, including:

• Evolution

• Cell Structure and Function

• Energy Acquisition and Use

• Heritable Information

• Cell Communication

• Biochemistry

• Molecular Biology

• Genetics

• Ecology

Students will also learn about effective study strategies and the science of learning, as research in education and cognitive science informs course design.

Course Evaluation

Assessment Components

Students must pass both the lecture and laboratory components independently to pass the course. The evaluation breakdown is as follows:

The final exam is cumulative. The lowest 20% of small activity grades will be dropped.

Laboratory Information

Lab Sessions and Policies

Laboratory sessions begin the week of September 8. Lab 1 is completed individually using Simbio virtual lab software. In-person attendance is mandatory for subsequent labs, and there are no online alternatives for in-person labs.

• Lab manual and safety equipment (lab coat and goggles) are required.

• Follow all laboratory safety regulations as outlined in the lab manual (pages 7-11).

• No eating, drinking, or use of distracting electronic devices in the lab.

• Lab schedule and policies are detailed in the lab manual and on eClass.

• Excuses are not granted for missed labs due to scheduling confusion; missed labs result in a grade of zero.

Additional Information

Course Website and Resources

• eClass: Course outline, news, quizzes, policies, files, and discussion forums.

• Slides: Posted ahead of class when possible; may differ from in-class slides.

• In-class polling: Participation via mobile device or computer using REEF account.

• Study strategies and skills resources available on eClass.

Learning Outcomes

Students are expected to master both biological concepts and effective learning strategies to succeed in university-level biology.