Course Introduction

BIOL-1110 – Biology I for Majors is an introductory course designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in biology, focusing on cellular and molecular processes. The course emphasizes critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and the application of biological concepts to real-world societal and environmental issues.

Course Structure and Logistics

Instructor and Contact Information

• Instructor: Dr. Cerrone Foster

• Email: fosterc@etsu.edu

• Office: Nicks Hall 359

• Student Drop-In Hours: Scheduled via online link

Class Meetings

• Location: Bud Frank Theatre, RM 118-Gilbreath Hall A010

• Schedule: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:35–9:55am and 10:10–11:30am

Course Materials

Required Textbook and Tools

• Textbook: "Campbell Biology in Focus, 4th edition" (eText or Print + Mastering Biology access)

• Student Response System: TopHat (phone or tablet required; laptops not allowed)

• Study Guide: Provided for each chapter on D2L (not submitted, but essential for exam preparation)

Major Course Topics

The course covers the following key topics, aligning with the core chapters of a General Biology curriculum:

• The Process of Science and Scientific Reasoning

• Evolution and Natural Selection

• Cell Structure and Function

• Biological Membranes and Transport

• Biological Molecules and Enzymes

• Energy Transformation in Living Systems

• DNA Structure, Replication, and Inheritance

• Gene Expression and Regulation

• Cell Division and Cancer

• Meiosis, Genetic Variation, and Patterns of Inheritance

• Biology in Societal and Environmental Contexts

Learning Outcomes

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

• Evolution: Explain how the diversity of life evolved through genetic change, diversification, and extinction.

• Information Flow: Describe how genetic information regulates growth and behavior, and how phenotype is influenced by genotype and environment.

• Energy and Matter: Explain how biological systems grow and change through chemical transformation pathways governed by thermodynamics.

• Science and Society: Apply biological knowledge in societal contexts and understand the relationship between science and society.

• Scientific Process: Demonstrate evidence-based reasoning through observation, experimentation, and hypothesis testing.

• Quantitative Reasoning: Use quantitative analysis and mathematical reasoning in biological contexts.

Course Policies

Attendance

• Attendance is required; up to 4 absences allowed before grade penalty.

• Excused absences require documentation but still count toward the 4-day limit.

Late Work and Make-Up Policy

• Exams and in-class quizzes must be completed as scheduled; no late submissions.

• Mastering Biology assignments are open for multiple weeks; two lowest scores are dropped.

• Make-up exams are at instructor discretion and require prior communication.

Classroom Expectations

• Laptops are not allowed; tablets and smaller devices are permitted for note-taking.

• Respectful behavior is required; disruptions may result in removal from class and loss of participation points.

Assessment and Grading

Grade Components

• Exams (4): 45%

• Midterm Exam: 10%

• Final Exam: 10%

• Mastering Biology Assignments: 20%

• In-Class Quizzes (TopHat): 15%

Grading Scale

Learning Cycle and Study Strategies

The course employs an active learning cycle to maximize student engagement and retention. The cycle includes preparation before class, interactive participation during class, and review and assessment after class.

• Preview: Complete pre-class work such as study guide questions or reading quizzes.

• Interact: Attend class and participate in TopHat questions for credit.

• Review: Spend at least 60 minutes after class reviewing notes and filling gaps.

• Study: Engage in focused study sessions to reinforce concepts and vocabulary.

• Check: Assess learning using Mastering Biology and study area resources.

Academic Integrity and AI Policy

• Students must adhere to ETSU’s Academic Integrity policy; plagiarism and cheating are prohibited.

• Generative AI tools may be used for study purposes only, specifically those associated with the textbook. AI is not allowed for in-class or exam responses.

Additional Resources and Support

• Access to Pearson Biology’s Study Area for videos, practice questions, and learning tools.

• Supplemental instructor support available.

• University policies and accessibility information provided via syllabus attachment link.

Summary Table: Course Success Essentials

Conclusion

This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of BIOL-1110, outlining expectations, resources, and strategies for success. Students are encouraged to actively engage with the material, utilize available resources, and uphold academic integrity throughout the course.