Course Overview and Structure

Introduction to Principles of Biology: Diversity and Ecology

This course provides an introduction to the major concepts of the life sciences, with a focus on botany, zoology, and ecology. It is designed for biology majors and minors, covering the diversity of life, plant and animal structure and function, development, behavior, and basic ecological principles. Laboratory activities complement lecture material to reinforce understanding.

• Textbook: Biology by N. A. Campbell and J. B. Reece, 12th edition (Pearson)

• Course Components: Lectures, online homework, laboratory sessions, exams, and recitation sessions

• Grading: Exams (45%), Final Exam (20%), Homework (20%), Lab (15%)

Learning Objectives

• Describe properties and organizational levels of life, from molecules to ecosystems

• Distinguish major groups of living organisms (domains, kingdoms, phyla, etc.)

• Demonstrate familiarity with anatomical and physiological adaptations and ecological roles

Course Schedule (Selected Topics)

Themes of Biology and Scientific Inquiry

What is Biology?

Biology is the scientific study of life. Biologists investigate how living things function, develop, interact, and evolve. The discipline is rooted in observation, experimentation, and the formulation of testable hypotheses.

• Key Questions: How do organisms develop from single cells? How do they interact in communities? What processes govern life?

Properties of Life

• Order: Living things exhibit complex but ordered organization.

• Evolutionary Adaptation: Populations evolve over generations through adaptations.

• Response to Environment: Organisms respond to environmental stimuli.

• Reproduction: Living things reproduce their own kind.

• Growth and Development: Inherited information controls growth and development.

• Energy Processing: Organisms obtain and use energy to power activities.

• Regulation: Homeostatic mechanisms maintain internal balance.

Themes in Biology

• Biological Hierarchy: New properties emerge at each level of organization, from molecules to the biosphere.

• Interaction with Environment: Organisms exchange matter and energy with their surroundings.

• Structure and Function: Biological structures are closely related to their functions at all levels of organization.

Scientific Method and Inquiry

The Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic approach to understanding the natural world through observation and experimentation.

• Ask a Question

• Do Background Research

• Construct a Hypothesis

• Test with Experiment

• Analyze Results/Draw Conclusions

• Report Results

Types of Scientific Inquiry

• Discovery Science: Describes natural structures and processes through observation and data analysis.

• Hypothesis-Based Science: Involves formulating and testing hypotheses through experimentation.

Hypotheses and Theories

• Hypothesis: A tentative, testable, and falsifiable explanation for an observation.

• Theory: Broader in scope than a hypothesis, supported by a large body of evidence, and can generate new hypotheses.

Limitations of Science

• Scientific explanations must be testable and repeatable.

• Science cannot address supernatural explanations.

Core Theme: Evolution

Evolution as the Unifying Theme of Biology

Evolution is the process of change that has transformed life on Earth. It explains both the unity and diversity of life, connecting all living organisms through common ancestry.

• Organisms are modified descendants of common ancestors.

• Natural selection is the primary mechanism of evolution.

Darwin’s Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection

• Individuals in a population vary in their traits, many of which are heritable.

• More offspring are produced than can survive, leading to competition.

• Individuals best suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce (fitness).

• Over generations, advantageous traits become more common in the population.

Speciation and Evolutionary Relationships

• Natural selection can lead to the formation of new species (speciation).

• Evolutionary relationships are often depicted as tree-like diagrams showing common ancestry.

Sources of Genetic Variation

• Genetic Recombination: Occurs during sexual reproduction, shuffling alleles and creating new combinations.

• Mutation: Random changes in DNA that can be neutral, harmful, or (rarely) beneficial.

Tips for Success in Biology

• Study daily and actively engage with the material.

• Read chapters before class, take notes, and review regularly.

• Use flashcards, write practice questions, and sketch diagrams to reinforce learning.

• Attend recitation sessions if needed and seek help early.

Academic Integrity and Policies

• Exams must be taken at scheduled times; academic honesty is strictly enforced.

• Artificial intelligence tools may be used only as permitted and must be cited appropriately.

• University policies on accommodations, integrity, and conduct apply to all students.