BIOL& 100 Survey of Biology (5 credits)
Distribution Area Fulfilled Natural Sciences with Lab; General Transfer Elective
Prerequisite none
Course Description
This is a biology course for non-science majors. Emphasis is on the study of the diversity of life, cells and cellular processes, genetics, evolution, and ecology to establish a foundation of understanding about living things. This course includes a lab.
Course Content
A. Scientific Method: formal and informal; experimental versus observational studies
B. Characteristics all living things share and how domains and kingdoms differ
C. Basic chemistry: elements, atoms, subatomic particles, electron shells on small atoms, isotopes, ions, ionic bond, covalent bond, polar covalent bond, polar molecule, properties of water including hydrogen bonds
D. Four categories of biomolecules: how to view simplified diagrams of organic molecules, major characteristics and common examples for each category, introduction to enzymes
E. Major cell structures and basic functions for bacteria, plants, and animals
F. Roles of cellular respiration and photosynthesis in biological systems
G. Structure of chromosomes
H. Protein synthesis
I. Viruses: general structure and activities
J. Overview of DNA replication; mitosis and meiosis; sexual vs asexual reproduction; definition of cancer
K. Mendelian inheritance genetics and mutations
L. Evolutionary mechanisms, focusing on natural selection
M. Ecological principles such as trophic levels (producers and consumers including detritivores, decomposers); inter-species interactions (mutualism, predation, parasitism, commensalism); and general diversity of ecosystems/biomes
N. Environmental issues (e.g. loss of biodiversity; climate change, including inequities among human populations); impacts of our personal activities (directly and indirectly)
Student Outcomes
1. Apply the scientific method in formal and informal applications
2. Apply basic chemistry and bioenergetic principles to explain life sciences
3. Explain the relationships between the three Domains of life in the context of evolution
4. Summarize biological processes involving DNA and RNA and their significance in biological systems
5. Apply ecological principles to life processes and major environmental issues
6. Describe the essential role of biology throughout everyday life
Degree Outcomes
Critical, Creative, and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.
Natural Sciences: Graduates use the scientific method to analyze natural phenomena and acquire skills to evaluate authenticity of data/information relative to the natural world.
Lecture Contact Hours 40
Lab Contact Hours 20
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 60
Potential Methods
Quizzes and exams
Writing assignments: lab reports/worksheets, literature research, etc.
Discussions
Laboratory and/or field experiences
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