Course Overview

General Information

This syllabus outlines the structure, requirements, and policies for Biology 3 – Introduction to Biology at Pierce College for Fall 2025. The course includes both lecture and laboratory components, designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in general biology.

• Lecture: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 2:20PM - 3:45PM

• Laboratory: Wednesdays, 2:40PM - 5:50PM

• Instructor: Brandon Jones

• Office: CFS 91077

• Contact: JonesBR@piercecollege.edu

Required Materials

Textbooks and Lab Manual

• Essential Biology with Physiology (6th edition) by Simon, Dickey, Hogan, and Reece

• Biology 3 Laboratory Manual: Biological Patterns (12th edition) by Farris, Koller, and Beavers

• Lab manual must be purchased new from the bookstore. Do not use a used copy.

• Functional computer for lab assignments (correct audio jack, internet access)

Course Structure and Policies

Lectures

Lectures will cover core concepts in general biology, including cell structure, physiology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Attendance and participation are expected.

• Lecture exams will be given in person and are worth approximately 80 points each.

• Exams will not be dropped.

• No phones, smart watches, or unauthorized materials allowed during exams.

• Students must bring pencils, erasers, and sharpeners for exams.

• Parts of lectures may be recorded for instructional purposes.

Laboratory

Laboratory exercises reinforce lecture concepts through hands-on activities and experiments. Some lab exercises are completed online via Canvas, while others require in-person attendance.

• Lab assignments are based on the lab manual and weekly activities.

• Students must complete all lab exercises and record information in lab manuals.

• Lab computers are available for assignments; students must sign in and out.

• Lab policies prohibit food/drink (except water), unauthorized headphones, and leaving the lab without signing out.

• Lab points contribute to the overall course grade.

Grading and Assessments

Evaluation Components

• Lecture Exams: Multiple exams, each worth ~80 points.

• Lab Assignments: Weekly lab exercises and assessments.

• Lab Manual: Completion required for passing the course.

• Final Exam: Scheduled during final exam week.

All students must complete both lecture and lab requirements to pass the course. Failure to complete lab assignments will result in being dropped from the class.

Academic Integrity

Honesty Policy

Students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty. Violations include cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, and use of unauthorized materials during exams or assignments.

• Penalties for academic dishonesty may include a zero on the assignment, failure of the course, and disciplinary action.

• No photos, screenshots, videos, or audio recordings of exams or assignments are permitted.

Student Support and Resources

Accommodations and Accessibility

• Students with disabilities should contact the instructor and the Disabled Students Services (DSS) for accommodations.

• Accommodations must be approved prior to exams.

• Contact DSS at special_services@piercecollege.edu or (818) 719-6430.

Tutoring and Academic Support

• Center for Academic Success (CAS) offers tutoring for biology concepts and skills.

• Contact CAS at (818) 405-5696 or helpdesk@outlook.com.

Emergency and Health Services

Campus Safety

• Emergency contact: Sheriff's emergency number (818-710-4311).

• Student Health Center provides medical and mental health services.

• FamilyPACT and other programs available for students.

Important Dates

Semester Timeline

• First day of class: September 1

• Last day to enroll with permission: September 1

• Last day to drop online without "W": September 1

• Last day to drop online with "W": November 7

• Final Exam Week: December 15 - December 21

• Holidays: Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving

Course Objectives

Learning Goals

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Understand and apply basic biological concepts and terminology.

• Demonstrate knowledge of cell structure and function.

• Explain principles of genetics, evolution, and ecology.

• Perform laboratory techniques and record scientific observations.

• Analyze and interpret biological data.

Additional Information

Financial Aid and Support

• Financial assistance is available for books, supplies, and tuition.

• Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

Privacy and FERPA

• Student records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

• Personal information will not be shared without consent.

Diversity and Inclusion

• The course promotes an inclusive environment for all students.

• Discrimination, harassment, or bias will not be tolerated.

Summary Table: Key Course Components

Conclusion

This syllabus provides a comprehensive guide to the expectations, resources, and policies for Biology 3 – Introduction to Biology. Students are encouraged to utilize available support services, adhere to academic integrity, and actively participate in both lecture and laboratory components to succeed in the course.