General Biology I (BIOL 115) Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the study of living systems at the molecular, cellular, and multicellular levels. It covers the chemical and cellular foundations of life, energy flow, reproduction, and development. The course is designed to provide foundational knowledge for understanding biological systems and their interrelationships.

• Course Objectives: Understand the structure and function of cells, the molecular basis of life, and the processes of energy transformation, reproduction, and development.

• Applications: Prepares students for advanced study in biology and related fields.

Course Structure and Logistics

• Lecture Times: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:25-10:40 AM, 104 College Hall

• Professors: Dr. Jill Dembowski and Dr. Joseph McCormick

• Teaching Assistants: Josh Robinson, Meghan Wentzell

• Textbook: Freeman, Scott, 2024. Biological Sciences, 8th Edition, Pearson with Mastering Biology (companion website access).

• Laboratory: Separate syllabus provided by lab instructors.

Major Topics and Chapters

The course is organized by chapters, each focusing on a major topic in general biology. Below is a summary of the main topics covered:

• Introduction and Evolution of Life (Chapter 1)

• Chemical Basis of Life (Chapter 2)

• Protein Structure and Function (Chapter 3)

• Nucleic Acids, RNA World (Chapter 4)

• Carbohydrates (Chapter 5)

• Lipids and Membranes (Chapter 6)

• Inside the Cell (Chapter 7)

• Metabolic Pathways: Respiration (Chapter 8)

• Photosynthesis (Chapter 9)

• Respiration & Fermentation (Chapter 10)

• Cell-Cell Interactions (Chapter 11)

• Cell Cycle (Chapter 12)

• Meiosis (Chapter 13)

• Mendel and the Gene (Chapter 14)

• DNA Replication and Repair (Chapter 15)

• Transcription and RNA Processing (Chapter 16-17)

Assessment and Grading

Student performance is evaluated through exams, quizzes, assignments, recitations, and laboratory work. The grading breakdown is as follows:

• Grading Scale: A = 90-100%; B+ = 88-89.9%; B = 80-87.9%; C = 70-79.9%

• Exams: True/false, multiple-choice, and short answer/essay questions.

• Recitation: Weekly sessions for review and active learning.

• Laboratory: Separate evaluation and syllabus.

Course Policies

• Attendance: Required for all lectures, recitations, and labs. Medical or other excused absences must be communicated to the instructor as soon as possible.

• Make-up Exams: Only with documented excused absence.

• Academic Integrity: Students must adhere to university policies on academic honesty.

• Disability Services: Accommodations available through the Office of Disability Services.

• Electronic Devices: Use only for educational purposes as permitted by the instructor.

Study Tips

1. Review assigned material before each lecture.

2. Take notes and highlight important points during class.

3. Do not wait until the last minute to prepare for exams; study regularly.

4. Organize notes and review them after every lecture.

5. Set aside at least 3 hours of study for every lecture hour.

6. Form study groups to discuss and review material.

Important Campus Resources

• Counseling Services

• Health Services

• Recreation Services

• Oasis Mental Health and Wellbeing App

• Spiritan Campus Ministry

For more information, visit the university's student wellbeing and academic support websites.

Additional info:

• This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, expectations, and resources for success in General Biology I.

• Students are encouraged to utilize all available resources and communicate proactively with instructors and teaching assistants.