Course Overview: Organismal and Ecological Biology (BIOL 150)

This course provides an introduction to the study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environments. It covers foundational concepts in biology, focusing on organismal diversity, ecological principles, and evolutionary processes.

Main Topics Covered

• Organismal Biology: Study of the structure, function, and diversity of living organisms.

• Ecological Biology: Examination of how organisms interact with each other and their environment.

• Evolutionary Biology: Exploration of the processes that drive the diversity and adaptation of organisms over time.

Course Structure and Team

Instructional Team

• Instructor: Dr. Árpád S. Nyári, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

• Supplementary Instructors: Undergraduate and graduate teaching assistants provide support, review sessions, and guidance on course material.

Course Sections

• Fall 2025 – Sections 001-009

• Multiple meeting times and locations to accommodate all students

Course Layout and Materials

Key Course Components

• Lecture Slides: Summarize key concepts and serve as reference notes. Students are expected to review slides before class.

• E-Textbook: Biological Science by Freeman, 8th edition. Provides comprehensive coverage of course topics and includes online resources such as videos and practice modules.

• Clicker Software: PointSolutions platform for in-class participation and attendance tracking.

• Canvas Platform: Central hub for course announcements, materials, quizzes, worksheets, and grades.

Assessment and Grading

• In-Class Participation: Clicker questions and worksheets (20% of grade)

• Review Quizzes: 15 quizzes throughout the semester, with the 10 highest scores counting toward 10% of the grade

• Exams: Three midterm exams and a cumulative final, together accounting for 50% of the course grade

• Biological Literacy (BioLit) Sessions: Weekly sessions focusing on scientific practices and data interpretation (20% of grade)

Keys to Success in BIOL 150

Effective Study Strategies

• Review lecture slides and textbook readings before class

• Attend all lectures and participate in discussions and activities

• Take detailed notes and focus on learning objectives

• Use clicker questions and quizzes to self-assess understanding

• Seek help early from instructors or supplementary instructors if needed

• Dedicate 8-9 hours per week to studying and course activities

Core Concepts in Biology

Five Core Concepts

• Structure and Function: The arrangement of biological structures determines their function in living systems.

• Evolution: Populations of organisms change over time through evolutionary processes, both selective and non-selective.

• Information Flow and Storage: Genetic and molecular information is exchanged and stored to direct biological functions.

• Transformations of Energy and Matter: Living organisms acquire, use, and transform energy and matter for survival and growth.

• Systems: Biological systems are interconnected and interact at multiple levels, from molecules to ecosystems.

Scientific Practices Developed

• Formulating hypotheses and predictions

• Interpreting scientific data and representations

• Summarizing information from scientific literature

• Predicting consequences of changes in biological systems

Common Misconceptions in Biology

• Biological systems are not simply collections of parts; their function arises from complex interactions.

• Evolution is not a linear or goal-directed process.

• Energy and matter transformations are fundamental to all living processes.

• Information flow is not limited to DNA but includes various molecular signals.

Weekly Tasks and Recommendations

• Complete the syllabus quiz and register for all required platforms (e-text, clicker software)

• Check Canvas regularly for updates, assignments, and resources

• Engage with supplementary materials and review sessions for deeper understanding

Example: Application of Core Concepts

• Structure and Function Example: The shape of a bird’s beak is adapted to its feeding habits, illustrating how structure determines function.

• Evolution Example: The diversity of finch species on the Galápagos Islands demonstrates adaptive radiation through natural selection.