Microbiology Course Syllabus and Structure: BIOL-107 Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Microbiology

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to microbiology, focusing on the molecular and cellular characteristics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Students will explore the biology of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, including their morphology, classification, reproduction, metabolism, genetics, population growth, and disease production. Laboratory sessions offer hands-on experience with microbiological tools and techniques.

• Microorganisms Studied: Bacteria, fungi, protozoa, viruses

• Key Areas: Morphology, classification, reproduction, metabolism, genetics, population growth, disease production

• Laboratory Skills: Use of microbiological tools, experimental design, cell quantification, biochemical testing

• Target Audience: Allied health students

Course Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Communicate microbiology concepts and terminology using appropriate symbols, notation, and vocabulary.

• Design and perform experiments to quantify cells in broth culture.

• Conduct biochemical tests and identify unknown microorganisms.

• Discuss elementary chemistry of atoms and bonding as a basis for understanding biological molecules.

• Identify cell anatomy, including internal and external structures.

• Compare mutualism, disease, immunity, and host-bacteria interactions.

• Discuss causes, effects, and diagnosis of common genetic disorders and solve heritability problems.

Course Structure

Hybrid Format

The course is delivered in a hybrid format, with asynchronous online lectures and in-person laboratory sessions. Students are expected to attend lab sessions weekly and participate in virtual office hours, review sessions, and open instruction sessions as needed.

• Lecture: Asynchronous online instruction

• Lab: In-person, weekly attendance required

• Materials Required: Reliable Wi-Fi, compatible computer/iPad, webcam, disposable lab coat, Ziplock bag

• Textbook: Biology 107 Fundamentals of Microbiology Study Guide, Bard et al., 15th edition, XanEdu Publishing, 2023

Assessment and Grading

Assignment Weighting

Grades are determined by performance in both lecture and laboratory components. The grading scheme ensures a balanced evaluation of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Assessment Group	Weight (%)
Exams	40
Final Exam	10
Lecture Quizzes	5
Case Study	7
Cell Part Labeling Assignments	3
Online Homework	8
Discussion and Communication	2
Lab Grade	25

Grading Scale:

Letter Grade	Percentage
A	90-100% (including at least 60% on laboratory)
B	80-89% (including at least 60% on laboratory)
C	70-79% (including at least 60% on laboratory)
D	60-69%
F	59% and below

Additional info: Students must achieve at least 60% in the laboratory portion to earn an A, B, or C for the course.

Key Topics and Schedule

Major Themes and Chapter Coverage

The course schedule aligns with foundational topics in microbiology, including:

• Introduction to Microbiology

• Classification and Microbial Growth

• Chemical Principles: Atoms, Bonding, Water, pH

• Organic Molecules: Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids

• Cell Structure: Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

• Cell Membrane and Transport

• Cell Cycle and Mitosis

• Principles of Inheritance and Genetics

• Bioenergetics: Cellular Respiration and Fermentation

• Immunity: Innate and Adaptive

• Infection and Disease

Example: Lecture topics such as "Atoms and Bonding," "Water and pH," "DNA Structure and Replication," "Protein Synthesis," "The Bacterial Cell," and "Immunity" directly correspond to core chapters in microbiology textbooks.

Laboratory Experience

Hands-On Microbiology Techniques

Laboratory sessions are designed to reinforce lecture concepts through practical application. Students will:

• Quantify cells in broth culture using serial dilution and plating techniques

• Perform biochemical tests to identify unknown microorganisms

• Label and identify cell structures in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

• Apply scientific notation and dilution calculations in experimental design

Additional info: Laboratory assignments include cell labeling, pre-lab activities, lab quizzes, and practical projects.

Academic Policies

Academic Honesty and Integrity

Students are expected to adhere to strict academic honesty policies, including prohibitions on plagiarism, cheating, and self-plagiarism. Violations result in disciplinary action and potential course failure.

• Unauthorized use of notes or materials is prohibited

• Copying from other students or sources without citation is considered plagiarism

• Reusing assignments from previous semesters is not allowed

Support and Accessibility

Student Resources

Howard Community College provides a range of support services, including disability accommodations, technical support, and emergency assistance. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are emphasized throughout the college environment.

• Disability Support Services: Accommodations for physical and learning differences

• Technical Support: Helpdesk for computing and Canvas issues

• Public Safety: Emergency assistance contacts

• Title IX Policy: Reporting and support for sexual misconduct and harassment

Course Communication

Instructor and Peer Interaction

Communication is facilitated through HCC email, Canvas messaging, discussion boards, and announcements. Students are encouraged to engage actively in course discussions and check announcements regularly for important updates.

• Primary contact: HCC email and Canvas messaging

• Discussion boards: Peer and group interaction

• Announcements: Instructor-to-class communication

• Feedback: Assignment comments and grade flags

Summary Table: Core Microbiology Topics Covered

Topic	Relevant Chapter(s)
Introduction to Microbiology	1
Chemical Principles (Atoms, Bonding, Water, pH)	3, 4
Organic Molecules (Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids)	5
Cell Structure (Prokaryotic & Eukaryotic)	7, 8
Cell Membrane & Transport	6
Microbial Growth & Classification	10
DNA Structure, Replication, Protein Synthesis	14, 15
Genetics & Inheritance	16
Bioenergetics (Cellular Respiration, Fermentation)	12
Immunity	19, 20
Infection & Disease	21

Additional info: The course schedule and objectives closely match the standard microbiology curriculum, ensuring coverage of all foundational topics required for allied health students.