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

Course Information

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Course

BIOL-1408-004 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.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(4 sem hrs; 3 lec, 2 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Lecture Book:

For the Lecture portion of the course, students will need to copy course notes  however some students feel that a textbook is helpful.  The following book is the adopted book for the class:

Biology, Hoefnagels, 1st edition

Lab Book:  Life Science I Lab Manual (Dan Porter and Tracey Hines)

Supplies

Plenty of paper and something to write with, lab manual and textbook.

Student Performance

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/program.

PURPOSE AND GOALS OF THE COURSE: By the end of the semester the student will have satisfactorily completed all listed learning objectives with a minimum of 60% competency level based on the completion of all major exams.

PERFORMANCE AND LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
(MINIMUM COMPETENCIES)

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

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

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Grading Criteria

The lecture portion of this course will count as 75% of the final grade while the lab portion of this course will count as 25% of the final grade.   The lecture portion of the class will include 60% exams and 15% comprehensive final.

Evaluation: The final grades of A (89.5-100), B (79.5-89.4), C (69.5-79.4), and D (59.5-69.4), and F ( below 59.5) will be computed as the average of the earned grades from:

 Lecture Grade (75%)

• There will be an exam every Tuesday both in lecture and lab.  The exams will cover the previous weeks lecture and lab material.  If you miss of come in late to an exam for any reason, a grade of zero will be assigned for that exam.  No make-ups willbe givern for any reason on any exam.

Lab Grade (25%)

• Two major examinations will be given during the semester. These include the midterm and the final.. 

• Lab Quizzes will be given weekly.
• Doing the actual lab and handing in the lab worksheet will be assigned weekly.

NO MAKEUP EXAMS OR QUIZZES WILL BE GIVEN.

Attendance

 Attendance is required.  I have found in my long teaching career that students do much better if they attend class.  I will take role every class.

Calendar

Additional Information

I have the right to amend this syllabus at any time throughout the semester.