Paramedical Microbiology (Bio-152) – Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Introduction

Overview of Paramedical Microbiology (Bio-152)

This course provides a foundational understanding of microbiology, focusing on medically relevant microorganisms and their roles in health, disease, and biotechnology. Students will explore the classification, physiology, and genetics of microbes, as well as their impact on human health and society.

Course Logistics

Instructor and Contact Information

• Instructor: Eva Hawara ([e-mail])

• Lecture Time: Every Thursday, 4:20 – 5:20 PM

• Location: To Be Determined (TBD)

Textbook

• Required Text: Microbiology: An Introduction, 14th Edition by Tortora, Funke, Case, Bair, & Weber (2023), Pearson.

• Available as eTextbook ($9.99/mo) or on reserve in the library.

• Accessible 24/7 via the library website.

Course Structure and Topics

Weekly Topics and Chapters

The course covers a range of topics, including:

• History and classification of microbes

• Cellular anatomy of prokaryotes and eukaryotes

• Microbial growth and control

• Metabolism and genetics

• Immunity and infectious diseases

• Applied microbiology (food, industrial, environmental)

Refer to the course schedule for specific chapters and quiz/reading sections.

Grading Criteria

Assessment Breakdown

• Exams: 87% (divided among several exams)

• Assignments: 9%

• Participation: 4%

• Lecture: Counts for 2/3 of total course grade

• Lab: Counts for 1/3 of total course grade

Lectures and Homework

Expectations and Submission Guidelines

• Lectures present key aspects of the material; additional explanations are provided for each topic.

• Students are expected to read corresponding textbook sections before class.

• Lecture slides and homework questions are available for download from Canvas.

• Homework must be submitted electronically before lecture starts; late submissions are not accepted.

• Homework must be in accepted formats; images of handwritten work will receive a zero.

• All homework is checked for plagiarism.

Exam Guidelines

Exam Conduct and Policies

• Required materials: pencil, pen, eraser, scantron/Datalink.

• All electronics and personal belongings must be stored at the front of the class.

• Hats must be removed or turned around; drinks placed on the ground.

• Assigned seating during exams.

• Strict adherence to guidelines; violations result in a zero on the exam.

• Exams are returned in class for review; no pens or electronics allowed during review.

• Students have 1–2 weeks to receive graded exams.

Attendance and Participation

Attendance Policy

• Attendance is taken at the beginning of each lecture.

• Success in the course is linked to regular attendance and participation.

• More than two absences may result in dismissal from the course.

• Participation includes answering questions when called upon.

Technology Use

Classroom Technology Policy

• No video recording allowed without instructor permission.

• Laptops/tablets may be used for note-taking only; misuse may result in loss of privilege.

• Phones must be silenced; non-compliance may affect participation grade.

Accessibility Needs

Accommodations

• Students with disabilities should contact the Accessibility Resource Center (A.R.C.) in the first week.

• Accommodations are implemented as soon as possible after paperwork is approved.

• Contact: [e-mail], phone: [phone].

Academic Integrity

Policy and Expectations

• Strict adherence to the Student Code of Conduct and Academic Integrity standards.

• Cheating, plagiarism, and use of unauthorized AI tools are prohibited.

• Violations result in immediate consequences, including possible dismissal from the course.

• Students are expected to understand and follow college policies on academic fraud.

Course Schedule

Sample Weekly Schedule (Excerpt)

Date	Topic	Chapter	Quiz/Reading Sections
8/19	Syllabus Review, Introduction and History of Microbiology	1	1.1,1.2,1.3
8/21	History of Microbiology; Classification of Microbes; Chemical Principles	1,2,3	1.2,2.3
8/26	Functional Anatomy of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells	4	4.5,4.6,4.8
9/2	Microbial Growth	6	6.1,6.2,6.3,6.4
9/9	Control of Microbial Growth	7	7.1,7.5

Additional Information

• Students must check Canvas regularly for updates and materials.

• Office hours are available for further explanation and help; respectful conduct is expected.

• Pop quizzes may be given at the beginning of lectures; no make-ups for absences or tardiness.