BIOL101 Biological Science I

Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Biology

  1. Course Number and Title

    BIOL101 Biological Science I

  2. Number of Credits

    4 credits

  3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

    3750

  4. Prerequisites

    Reading Level 3 or READ110 (C or better) or permission of the Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; Math Level 5 or higher or MATH095 (C or better); Writing Level 4 or COMP090 (C or better)

    Corequisites

    None

  5. Other Pertinent Information

    Lecture-laboratory format to include in-class and/or online presentation of content material and participation in hands-on and/or virtual laboratory exercises. Topics are presented in various modes including, but not limited to, traditional lecture style, online presentation, group exercises, computer simulations and/or online research. This course does not meet the curriculum requirements for biology majors.

  6. Catalog Course Description

    This course is an introduction to processes common to all living organisms. Science and the scientific method are described. Topics include: cell structure, energy transfer in plants and animals, classical genetics, molecular genetics, genetic engineering, and evolution. This course does not meet the curriculum requirements for biology majors.

  7. Required Course Content and Direction

    1. Learning Goals:

      1. Course Learning Goals

        2. Students will be able to:

        1. explain the meaning of scientific thought and identify the steps to the scientific method;
        2. describe the organization and function of living cells;
        3. explain the mechanics of energy transformations in living systems;
        4. explain the process of genetic inheritance;
        5. describe the techniques related to genetic engineering; and
        6. explain the concepts of evolution and natural selection.

      2. Core Learning Goals(if applicable)

        3. Category I - Mathematics or Science
        Students will be able to:

        1. analyze, interpret, and apply quanititative information.
        2. recognize the scientific method of analysis and apply it in a variety of situations.

        Core Learning Objectives:
        Category I - Mathematics or Science
        Students will be able to:

        1. apply the scientific method by explaining and identifying its components in a variety of situations. (2)
        2. evaluate and graph data. (1)

        Category III - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
        Students will be able to:

        1. use methods, concepts, and theories in new situations (Application Skills).
        1. demonstrate an understanding of solving problems by:
          1. recognizing the problem
          2. reviewing information about the problem
          3. developing plausible solutions
          4. evaluating the results

        RESPONSIBLE CITIZENSHIP
        Students will be able to:
        1. demonstrate an understanding of major ethical concerns.

    2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      The following topics are presented:
      1. biology as a science
      2. biochemistry of the cell
      3. cell structure and function
      4. metabolism: energy and enzymes
      5. photosynthesis
      6. cellular respiration
      7. cell division: mitosis and meiosis
      8. mendelian genetics
      9. non-mendelian genetics
      10. human genetics
      11. molecular genetics
      12. recombinant DNA and biotechnology
      13. evolution

    3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

      1. Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals

        2. Exams, quizzes, laboratory exercises, class participation, and projects as specified in the individual instructor’s course format will be utilized.

      2. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals (if applicable)

        3. Math or Science: Evaluation and graphing of data as obtained during laboratory exercises will be assigned.

        Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: At least one Critical Thinking writing assignment related to one of the Planned Topics will be assigned. Problem solving exercises related to data obtained during laboratory exercises will be included.

        Responsible Citizenship: At least one assignment related to ethical issues related to one of the Planned Topics under this category will be assigned.

        Other Evaluative Tools: Exams, quizzes, class participation, and projects as specified in the individual instructor’s course format will be utilized.

    4. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

      Students use educational resources as approved by the department and specified in the individual instructor's format.

  8. Teaching Methods Employed

    Section VIII is not being used in new and revised syllabi as of 12/10/08.

Review/Approval Date - 11/06; Core Goals/Objectives added 4/06; Revised 6/09; Dept name change, 8/21/2012