General Biology I (BIOL-121) Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course introduces basic principles of biology, including cell structure, metabolism, genetics, evolution, and biological diversity. It is designed for students with a background in high school science and serves as a prerequisite for advanced biology courses.

• Instructor: Andrea Anacy Santos

• Class & Lab: Thursdays, 6 pm – 8:30 pm, Middleborough Campus, Room 108

• Textbook: Campbell et al., Biology, 12th ed., Benjamin Cummings Publisher

• Prerequisites: High school science, preparatory biology, and introductory writing and mathematics

Course Description

Topics include scientific methods, evolution, cell structure, metabolism, photosynthesis, DNA structure and replication, protein synthesis, and biological diversity. The course emphasizes the development of scientific thinking and laboratory skills.

• Scientific Method: Understanding how scientists ask questions, design experiments, and interpret results.

• Cell Biology: Structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, organelles, and membranes.

• Metabolism: Chemical reactions in cells, including photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

• Genetics: DNA structure, replication, gene expression, and inheritance.

• Evolution: Mechanisms of evolution, natural selection, and speciation.

• Biological Diversity: Classification and diversity of living organisms.

Course Objectives

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

• Describe the general steps of the scientific method and use these steps in solving problems.

• Explain how scientific knowledge is obtained and evaluated.

• Describe the structure and function of biological molecules and cells.

• Understand the basics of metabolism, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration.

• Explain the principles of genetics, including DNA replication and gene expression.

• Describe mechanisms of evolution and the diversity of life.

• Apply laboratory techniques and safety procedures.

• Perform simple mathematical calculations and analyze experimental results.

Methods of Instruction

• Lecture: Instructor-led presentations, discussions, and demonstrations.

• Lab: Hands-on activities, experiments, and group work.

• Online Materials: Access to assignments, quizzes, and lab activities via Canvas.

Evaluation

Grades are based on exams, laboratory activities, quizzes, and participation. The lowest scores for some categories may be dropped.

Grading Scale

Attendance and Academic Honesty

• Attendance: Mandatory for all lectures and labs. Absences must be documented.

• Academic Honesty: All work must be your own. Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

Lab Safety and Policies

• Read lab instructions before class.

• Follow all safety procedures.

• No food or drink in the lab.

• Electronic devices must be turned off during class.

How to Succeed in BIOL 121

• Attend lectures and labs regularly.

• Get organized: Use a notebook for notes, quizzes, labs, and activities.

• Read the textbook and complete assigned readings before lecture.

• Complete assignments and lab activities on time.

• Ask questions and participate in discussions.

• Study regularly and review material before exams.

Course Schedule (Sample)

Key Terms and Concepts

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

• Cell: The basic unit of life, consisting of organelles and surrounded by a membrane.

• Metabolism: The sum of all chemical reactions in an organism.

• Photosynthesis: The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

• Cellular Respiration: The process by which cells break down glucose to produce energy.

• DNA Replication: The process of copying DNA before cell division.

• Evolution: The change in genetic composition of populations over time.

Additional info:

• Students are encouraged to use laptops or Chromebooks for assignments and note-taking.

• Accommodations are available for students with disabilities.

• Mastering Biology online platform may be used for some assignments.