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

Course Information

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As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

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Course

BIOL-1408-003 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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Hours

(4 sem hrs; 3 lec, 2 lab)

Class Type

Online Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

\  Biology: Concepts and Investigations second edition. Hoefnagels 2012

Supplies

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\ Computer access with internet connection.

Student Performance

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\ 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.

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\ 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.
\ 10. 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

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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

CHEATING: Do not give any indication of cheating. Cheating on any assessment will result in a zero for the grade and possible expulsion (removal) from the class. I know how to use Google too and I will check for plagiarism.

Students are expected to abide by the Amarillo College Student Rights and Responsibilities as a guide for college behavior.

Grading Criteria

GRADING: Grades are not curved.

89.5 - 100 = A

79.5 - 89.4 = B

69.5 - 79.4 = C

59.5 - 69.4 = D

Below 59.5 = F

One lab grade will be dropped. I will allow you MISS the DUE DATE and TIME for only one lab assignment.  A grade of zero will be assigned for any other late labs and that will be your drop for the semester. I will consider make-up lab work only under extenuating circumstances under that following conditions: Maximum possible grade for late work is 70 and the student must communicate intent to submit late work prior to submitting work. As I regularly submit feedback to the class regarding the quizzes, there will be absolutely no opportunity to make up quizzes.

REQUIRED EXAMINATION: There will be a comprehensive final exam.

EXAMS: 35% of the total grade for the semester. The exam will be online and consist of 100 questions (multiple choice, fill in the blank and short answer). Exam material will come from the text book and the other assigned reading and labs. The exam will close AT NOON on Thursday of finals week.

QUIZZES (25%), LABS (25%), AND WRITING ASSIGNMENTS (15%): 65% of the total grade for the semester. There will be quizzes and additional assignments made during the semester. The quizzes can be fill-in-the-blank, multiple choice, labeling, and/or short answer. Assignments and online quizzes will be made at least one week prior to the due date. I have attempted to make all labs with minimal required equipment. The equipment that is required should be readily available at your local store. I will require that you post pictures of your labs to show that it was completed. Lab content and results will be included in the exams and quizzes. All written assignments will be submitted online.   The lowest lab grade will be DROPPED. No writing grades will be dropped.

Attendance

\ No face-to-face contact is required but weekly participation is required.

Calendar

Additional Information

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