Course Overview

Introduction to Principles of Biology I

Principles of Biology I (BIO 1150) is the first course in a two-part introductory sequence for biology majors, minors, and health science students. The course provides a broad overview of foundational topics in biology, focusing on biochemistry, cellular biology, and genetics. It is designed to build a conceptual framework for further study in biological sciences.

• Lecture Hours: 3 hours per week

• Credit Hours: 3

• Target Audience: Biology majors/minors, biochemistry and molecular biology students, health science students

Course Learning Objectives

Expected Competencies

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

• Recognize connections between different areas of biology

• Apply knowledge of atomic bonding to explain macromolecular properties

• Describe the structure, function, and interrelation of the four macromolecular classes of life

• Identify and describe the function of subcellular compartments

• Discuss energy production and use in cells and organisms

• Describe how cells and organisms are propagated

• Explain patterns and molecular mechanisms of hereditary transmission in organisms

• Appreciate the contributions of historical and current research in biology and policy

Required Materials

• Textbook: Campbell Biology: Concepts and Connections, 10th Edition (eText via Canvas)

• Online Platform: Pearson Mastering Biology

• Technology: Reliable internet access and Belmont email account

Course Structure and Instruction

Lecture and Learning Activities

• Lecture PowerPoints provided for note-taking

• Active learning during class: embedded questions, group activities

• Students are expected to read assigned textbook sections

Assessment and Grading

Assessment Components

• Lecture Exams (5) and Cumulative Final Exam: 77% of final grade

• Quizzes (5): 13% of final grade

• Mastering Biology Homework: 10% of final grade

Assessment Descriptions

• Mastering Biology Homework: Online assignments for practice and feedback; includes questions, tutorials, and interactive activities.

• Quizzes: Five in-class quizzes as progress checks; may include terminology, concepts, and application questions. The average quiz score can replace the lowest regular exam grade (see policy below).

• Lecture Examinations: Five in-class exams covering major instructional units; may include multiple-choice, matching, short-answer, and application questions.

• Cumulative Final Examination: Comprehensive exam covering all course material; emphasizes integration and application of concepts.

Exam Grade Replacement Policy

• If the average quiz score is higher than the lowest regular exam grade, it will replace that exam grade (applies to only one exam).

• The cumulative final exam is not eligible for replacement.

• Quiz average still counts as 13% of the final grade, regardless of replacement.

• Unexcused missed exams (grade of zero) cannot be replaced by the quiz average.

Grade Scale

Attendance and Make-Up Policies

Attendance

• Attendance is encouraged; more than 6 absences (20%) results in a grade of FN.

• Provost Excused absences (for university-sanctioned events) do not count toward the limit.

Missed Exams and Quizzes

• Makeup exams/quizzes allowed only for excused absences with documentation.

• Makeup must be completed within two business days unless otherwise arranged.

• Unexcused absences result in a grade of zero, not eligible for replacement.

• Personal travel and routine work are not excused absences.

Missed Homework

• Late Mastering Biology homework is not accepted except for documented emergencies.

Academic Integrity and Conduct

Honor Pledge and Academic Honesty

• All students must adhere to the Belmont University Honor Pledge: "A Bruin does not lie, cheat, or steal, and does not tolerate those acts."

• Violations (cheating, plagiarism, etc.) result in disciplinary action and a record of the incident.

• Consult the Bruin Guide for definitions and policies regarding academic integrity.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools

• Permitted for brainstorming, outlining, and grammar review.

• Not permitted for generating graded assignments or submitting AI-generated content as your own.

• Any use of AI must be cited and explained; improper use is considered academic dishonesty.

Classroom Policies and Expectations

• Arriving late counts as a tardy; two tardies equal one absence.

• Phones and headphones are not allowed unless stated.

• All deadlines are strictly enforced; late work is not accepted unless otherwise stated.

• Expect to spend 8-12 hours per week studying outside of class.

• Contact the instructor via university email; expect replies within 48 hours.

Course Calendar and Major Topics

Weekly Schedule and Chapter Coverage

Additional info: The course calendar aligns with standard introductory biology topics, including evolution, biochemistry, cell structure and function, metabolism, genetics, and molecular biology, as outlined in the provided chapter list.

Support and Resources

• Library and Learning Centers: Free tutoring available for science, math, and writing

• GPS and Counseling Services: Academic and personal support

• Office of Accessibility Services: For students requiring accommodations

Important Dates

• Labor Day: 9/7 (No class)

• Fall Break: 10/12-13

• Thanksgiving: 11/25-27 (No class)

• Last Day of Classes: 12/1

• Final Exams: 12/4 & 12/7-10

• Final Grades Due: 12/14