BackBIOL 243 Microbiology: Course Syllabus and Study Guide
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Course Overview
This course, BIOL 243: Microbiology, provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of microorganisms, focusing on their structure, function, metabolism, genetics, classification, and their roles in health, disease, and the environment. Both lecture and laboratory components are included, emphasizing hands-on skills and theoretical understanding essential for students in the biological sciences.
Course Topics and Competencies
History of Microbiology: Major events and discoveries that shaped the field.
Microscopy and Laboratory Techniques: Use of light microscopes, preparation of slides, staining methods, and aseptic techniques.
Microbial Structure and Function: Characteristics of bacteria, algae, protists, fungi, and viruses.
Microbial Metabolism and Genetics: Metabolic pathways, DNA replication, protein synthesis, genetic mutation, and recombination.
Control of Microbial Growth: Physical and chemical methods, antimicrobial drugs, and laboratory safety.
Classification and Identification: Use of Bergey’s Manual, classification of prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses.
Host-Microbe Interactions: Normal flora, infection, immunity (innate and adaptive), and immune disorders.
Applied Microbiology: Industrial, environmental, and epidemiological applications.
Laboratory Skills and Safety
Microscope Use: Proper handling, cleaning, and storage of microscopes.
Staining Techniques: Gram stain, acid-fast stain, endospore stain, capsule stain, and simple stains.
Aseptic Techniques: Safe transfer and handling of microorganisms to prevent contamination.
Colony Morphology and Isolation: Streak plate methods, identification of pure cultures, and use of biochemical test media.
Antibiotic Testing: Disk diffusion (Kirby-Bauer) method and evaluation of antiseptics.
Laboratory Safety Protocols: Use of lab coats, goggles, gloves, and proper disposal of biohazardous waste.
Assessment and Grading
Assessment Method | Points Possible | Contribution to Grade |
|---|---|---|
Lecture Exams (4) | 400 | 40% |
Quizzes (17) | 170 | 17% |
Discussions (1) | 15 | 1.5% |
Written Assignments (1) | 15 | 1.5% |
Laboratory Safety (2) | 15 | 1.5% |
Laboratory Analyses (24) | 120 | 12% |
Laboratory Exams (2) | 200 | 20% |
Identification of Unknown Bacterium Project | 65 | 6.5% |
Total | 1000 | 100% |
Key Laboratory Exercises
Glow Germ Hand Wash Education
Introduction to the Light Microscope
Colony Morphology
Common Aseptic Transfers and Inoculation Methods
Microscopic Examination of Eukaryotic Microorganisms
Gram Stain, Simple Stains, Acid-fast Stain, Endospore Stain, Capsule Stain
Streak Plate Methods of Isolation
Bacterial Motility (Wet Mount, Hanging Drop, Motility Agar)
Bacterial Transformation (pGLO System)
Alcohol Fermentation, Anaerobic Jar, Fluid Thioglycollate Broth
Effect of pH, Temperature, and Ultraviolet Radiation on Microbial Growth
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
Course Policies and Student Responsibilities
Adherence to laboratory safety protocols is mandatory.
Academic integrity is strictly enforced; violations result in severe penalties.
Attendance and participation in all scheduled sessions are required.
Timely completion of assignments and assessments is expected.
Students must demonstrate respect, professionalism, and effective communication.
Grading Scale
Grade | Score Range | Grade Points |
|---|---|---|
A | 100-90 | 4.0 |
B | 89-80 | 3.9-3.0 |
C | 79-70 | 2.9-2.0 |
D | 69-60 | 1.9-1.0 |
F | 59 & Below | 0.0 |
Textbooks and Resources
Microbiology with Disease by Body System by Bauman, Robert (Pearson, 2nd Edition, 2018)
Microbiology: Laboratory Theory & Application by Leboffe, Michael J. and Pierce, Burton E. (Morton Publishing, 3rd Edition, 2016)
Lab Manual (printed copy required)
Important Dates and Support Services
Final Exam: June 25, 2026
Learning Support Services: Free tutoring, writing support, and academic coaching available.
Disability Support Services: Contact for accommodations.
Laboratory Safety Highlights
Lab coats, splash-resistant goggles, and gloves are required.
No food or beverages in the lab; tie back long hair and avoid open-toed shoes.
Know the location of safety equipment (shower, eyewash, fire extinguisher, etc.).
Dispose of biohazardous waste properly and wash hands before leaving the lab.
Additional info: This syllabus aligns closely with standard college-level microbiology courses and covers all major topics listed in the reference chapter titles, including microbial structure, function, genetics, metabolism, immunity, and laboratory techniques.
