Biology for Non-Science Majors I Syllabus for 2013-2014
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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Course

BIOL-1408-001 Biology for Non-Science Majors I

Prerequisites

Course Description

Provides a survey of biological principles with an emphasis on humans, including chemistry of life, cells, structure, function and reproduction. Laboratory activities will reinforce lecture content.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

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Occupational License Disclaimer

Hours

(4 sem hrs; 3 lec, 2 lab)

Class Type

Online Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Biology: Concepts and Investigations. 2nd ed. Hoefnagels, 2012 with online code for McGraw-Hill Connect OR ebook (Connect Plus)

Students have the option of purchasing the new textbook with online code from the AC Bookstore or the ebook (Connect Plus) through McGraw Hill (online purchase).  Buying a used book is NOT the most cost effective method of purchasing required materials. We will register with McGraw-Hill Connect during the first class period. McGraw-Hill provides a free, three-week trial of Connect, so is it NOT necessary to purchase the textbook prior to the first day of class. Registration in McGraw-Hill Connect will remain open for the first two days of class. Students must create accounts and register within the first two days of class.

Supplies

Students are expected to have access to a computer with Internet access.

 Supplies other than the textbook will be required for the Lab Assignments.  These supplies will be noted in each

Student Performance

\ STUDENT PERFORMANCE, COMPETENCIES AND OBJECTIVES: After studying the material presented in this course of study, the student will be able to do the following as evaluated by the faculty in the department.

\ Lecture Objectives

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1. \ Explain the basic principles of evolution.
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2. \ Describe the difference between a hypothesis and a theory.
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3. \ Describe and utilize the scientific method.
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4. \ Describe the biological organizational levels from chemical aspects through the biosphere.
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5. \ Discuss the characteristics of living organisms.
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6. \ Discuss basic chemistry and how its applies to living systems.
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7. \ Describe the components and functions of plant and animal cells.
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8. \ Explain structure and function of enzymes.
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9. \ Discuss the process of cellular respiration, fermentation, and photosynthesis.
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10. \ Describe DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis and the relationship between them.
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11. \ Give a detailed analysis of the cell cycle, to include all phases of mitosis as well as cell cycle regulation.
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12. \ Describe the process of meiosis and explain how it functions in genetics.
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13. \ Discuss the basic principles of Mendelian genetics and heredity.
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14. \ Discuss current biotechnology techniques and the benefits to man.
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15. \ Discuss other current issues in biology.
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Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE: If a student is having a problem with the course policies or the instructor, he or she should first try and resolve any such problems with the instructor.  If the problem is not resolved the student may proceed to the Department of Biological Sciences Chairperson, the Division of Sciences and Engineering Chairperson, the Associate Vice President of Instruction, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the College President, in that order.

WITHDRAW: A grade of "W" will be given for drops or withdraws on or before the published official withdraw date.  You may not drop or withdraw after that date.

Grading Criteria

\ GRADING: .
\ 89.5 - 100 = A
\ 79.5 - 89.4 = B
\ 69.5 - 79.4 = C
\ 59.5 - 69.4 = D
\ 00.0 - 59.4 = F

\ EXAMS: 30% Three exams (CH1-2, CH3-6, CH7-10)  Exams will consist of questions in multiple choice and short answer format.  Questions will come from class activities and online assignments. Students will use the Scantron mini-essay book (Form No. 886-E) for exams. Alternate assessment methods may be used at the instructor's discretion. Exams cannot be made up. 

\ LEARNSMART MODULES: 20% One online LearnSmart module per chapter (10 chapters). Due dates are published in McGraw-Hill Connect.

\ PROJECTS:20% One individual and one team project. Details will be discussed in class and/or posted in AC Connect (Blackboard LMS). Late projects are not accepted.

\ NOTEBOOK:10% One notebook grade per chapter (10 chapters). Notebook grades are based on completion of notes and drawings for each chapter. Notebooks are checked on chapter due dates and on exam days (see calendar below). Late notebooks are not accepted.

\ CLICKER QUIZZES: 10% One clicker quiz grade per chapter (10 chapters). Quizzes occur in class and cannot be made up if missed.

\ ONLINE REVIEWS: 10%  One review per chapter plus three test reviews (CH1-2, CH3-6, CH7-10) will be administrered through McGraw-Hill Connect. Due dates are published in McGraw-Hill Connect.

\ The instructor reserves the right to make exceptions to late and make-up policy. If an exception is granted, maximum points may be limited (example: half credit).
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Attendance

\ Students are expected to be on time and attend all classes. Students should check AC Online (Angel LMS) weekly for class assignments and announcements. In-class activities cannot be made up.  Late arrivals or early departure may result in lower grades for class activities.

Calendar

Additional Information

\ The instructor reserves the right to amend the course syllabus during the semester.