Microbiology 20: Course Syllabus, Structure, and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Microbiology 20

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the biology of microorganisms, their roles in nature, and their applications in health, industry, and the environment. Students will explore the diversity, physiology, and genetics of microbes, as well as laboratory techniques for their study and identification.

• Course Title: General Microbiology (Microbiology 20)

• Units: 4

• Prerequisites: Introductory Biology and Chemistry courses

• Institution: Los Angeles Trade-Technical College

• Semester: Spring 2024

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

• Explain the biology of microorganisms – Understand microbial structure, function, and diversity.

• Apply microbiology to principles of human health – Relate microbial processes to disease, immunity, and public health.

• Demonstrate proper laboratory techniques – Practice aseptic technique, culturing, and identification of microbes.

Course Structure and Grading

Lecture and Laboratory Components

The course consists of self-paced lectures and weekly laboratory sessions. Students are expected to participate actively in both components, working individually and in teams to reinforce theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

• Lecture: Scheduled on your own time (asynchronous)

• Lab: Wednesdays, 8:00 am – 11:10 am

Grading Criteria

Grades are based on exams, quizzes, lab reports, presentations, and participation. The grading scale is as follows:

Assessment	Points
Midterm Exams (4 x 100)	400
Lab Exams (2 x 100)	200
Unknown Exercise	50
Presentation	50
Lecture Activities (9 x 2)	18
Lab Reports (14 x 3)	43
Quizzes (9 x 3)	27
Discussions (4 x 3)	12
Final Exam	200
Total	1000

• A: 900–1000 pts

• B: 800–899 pts

• C: 700–799 pts

• D: 600–699 pts

• F: 0–599 pts

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Regular attendance and participation are required for both lecture and lab.

• Excessive absences or tardiness may result in exclusion from the course.

• Active engagement in team activities is essential for success.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized collaboration are strictly prohibited.

• First offense: Zero on the assignment/exam; Second offense: Report to Dean and further consequences.

Disability Support Services (DSPS)

• Students with disabilities are encouraged to seek accommodations through DSPS.

• Contact DSPS for support and information on rights and responsibilities.

Other Important Policies

• No late assignments or make-ups except for documented emergencies.

• Students are responsible for dropping/withdrawing before deadlines.

• Follow all lab safety and classroom decorum rules.

Course Schedule Overview

Major Topics by Week

The course follows a logical progression through foundational and applied microbiology topics, closely matching standard microbiology textbook chapters:

• Ch. 1: The Microbial World and You

• Ch. 2: Chemical Principles

• 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. 9: Biotechnology & DNA Technology

• Ch. 10-13: Classification of Microorganisms, Viruses, Fungi, Protozoa, Helminths

• Ch. 14-15: Principles of Disease, Epidemiology, Pathogenicity

• Ch. 16-17: Innate and Adaptive Immunity

• Ch. 18-20: Immunology Applications, Immune Disorders, Antimicrobial Drugs

• Ch. 21-26: Microbial Diseases of Organ Systems

• Ch. 27-28: Environmental and Applied Microbiology

Laboratory Topics

• Microscope use and safety

• Aseptic technique and pure culture methods

• Staining and identification of microorganisms

• Bacterial population counts

• Antiseptic and disinfectant effectiveness

• Antimicrobial sensitivity testing

• PCR and DNA technology

• Isolation and identification of unknowns

Textbooks and Resources

• Lecture Text: Microbiology: An Introduction by Tortora et al., 13th Ed.

• Lab Manual: Microbiology Laboratory Manual, Pantastico-Caldas et al., 2023

• Other: Permanent marker, lab coat, and online Canvas access

Contact and Support

• Instructor: Dr. Aguilar

• Office Hours: Mondays 8:30 am – 12:30 pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 – 11:30 am, or by appointment

• Contact: Canvas inbox (preferred) or email

• Additional Support: Academic Connections tutoring, DSPS, Student Health Center

Key Success Strategies

• Attend all lectures and labs

• Participate actively in class and group work

• Complete all assignments and study regularly

• Seek help early if you encounter difficulties

• Follow all safety and academic integrity guidelines