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BIO 333 Microbiology: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

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Course Overview

Introduction to Microbiology

This course, BIO 333 - Microbiology, provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Students will explore the anatomy, physiology, classification, genetics, and ecology of these organisms, as well as their relevance to human health and the environment. The course emphasizes mechanisms of disease transmission, infection control, immune responses, antimicrobial treatments, and laboratory techniques for culturing and identifying microorganisms.

Course Structure and Logistics

Lecture and Laboratory Details

  • Lecture: MWF 9:00-9:50 am in CHS #204

  • Associated Lab: Thursday 9-10:50 am in Corrigan Health Sciences Center #414

  • Professor: Mrs. Julie Olson, MA

  • Contact: julie.olson@dwu.edu, Office: 212 Corrigan, 605–995–2930

  • Office Hours: Multiple times throughout the week; see syllabus for details.

Required Materials

  • Pearson Mastering Microbiology (includes e-book) - ISBN: 9780138244156

  • Optional Print Textbook: Microbiology: An Introduction, 14th ed. by Tortora et al. (Print ISBN 13: 9780137941612)

Course Description and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand and describe the characteristics of microorganisms and their impact on health and the environment.

  • Explain mechanisms of disease transmission and methods for infection control.

  • Discuss immune responses and implications for vaccines and infection recovery.

  • Identify antimicrobial treatments and mechanisms of resistance.

  • Perform and interpret basic microbiological diagnostic procedures.

  • Engage in problem solving and investigative methods.

Course Calendar and Topics

Major Topics Covered

  • Ch. 1: The Microbial World and You

  • Ch. 3: Observing Microorganisms Through a Microscope

  • Ch. 4: Functional Anatomy of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

  • Ch. 5: Microbial Metabolism

  • Ch. 6: Microbial Growth

  • Ch. 7: The Control of Microbial Growth

  • Ch. 8: Microbial Genetics

  • Ch. 12: The Eukaryotes: Fungi, Algae, Protozoa, and Helminths

  • Ch. 13: Viruses, Viroids, and Prions

  • Ch. 16: Innate Immunity: Nonspecific Defenses of the Host

  • Ch. 17: Adaptive Immunity: Specific Defenses of the Host

Additional topics include fermentation, anaerobic respiration, photosynthesis, chemolithotrophy, bacterial growth, and immunology.

Assessment and Grading

Evaluation Methods

  • Exams: 60% (4 Unit Exams, 100 points each)

  • Lecture Quizzes: 25% (given after completion of a chapter)

  • Pearson Mastering Assignments: 15% (due at the start of every chapter discussion)

Grading Scale

Grade

Percentage

A

93-100%

A-

90-92%

B+

87-89%

B

83-86%

B-

80-82%

C+

77-79%

C

73-76%

C-

70-72%

D+

67-69%

D

63-66%

D-

60-62%

F

59% and below

Policies and Support

Attendance Policy

  • Attendance is required for all lectures and labs.

  • Missed quizzes, assignments, or tests require documentation and prior notice.

  • Make-up material must be approved by the professor.

Academic Honesty and AI Use

  • Academic integrity is essential; dishonesty will result in penalties.

  • AI use is limited to certain assignments as specified by the instructor. Unauthorized use may result in penalties.

Student Support Services

  • Academic Success and Career Services Center: Offers tutoring, writing assistance, career planning, and more.

  • Office of Disability Services: Provides accommodations for students with documented disabilities.

  • Title IX: Ensures a safe and inclusive environment free from sex and gender-based misconduct.

Course Schedule Snapshot

Sample Weekly Topics

  • Week 1: Introduction, History of Microbiology

  • Week 2: Observing Microorganisms, Microscopes

  • Week 3: Functional Anatomy of Prokaryotes

  • Week 4: Microbial Metabolism, Fermentation

  • Week 5: Bacterial Growth, Control of Growth

  • Week 6: Microbial Genetics, Survey of Fungi and Protozoa

  • Week 7: Viruses, Immunology

Additional Information

  • Material from cancelled classes will be covered in the next class meeting.

  • Assignments must be submitted via Canvas; email submissions are not accepted.

  • In the event of university closure, check DWU email for instructions.

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