Biology for Non-Science Majors I Syllabus for 2014-2015
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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Course

BIOL-1408-005 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

George Johnson. 2013. Essentials of The Living World, 4th edition.

Life Science Lab Manual Non-Science Majors by Dan Porter, Tracey Hines, and Briony Foster

Supplies

Computer access with internet connection.

3 X 5 index cards

Notebook or notebook paper

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.

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

Student 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

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.

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

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You will be required to complete and submit the "Biology Contract for Success" within the first week of class.

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 assignment, one grade, and one exam grade will be dropped.

Labs, quizzes, and exams can't be made up. 

Exams :There will be 4 unit exams and a final exam

QUIZZES AND ADDITIONAL ASSIGNMENTS: 15% of the total grade for the semester.
Random quizzes or assignments may be administered at any time during class. Quizzes may cover material from previous lectures or the current material. The instructor will drop one quiz or assignment grade for the semester. If a student is late to class or leaves early from class and misses a quiz, a makeup quiz will NOT be given

EXAMS: 60% of the total grade for the semester. All exams will be completed in the testing center (except the final). Exams will consist of material covered during course instruction, discussion, and material from the textbook. Exams may be composed of Multiple Choice, matching, true/false and short answer questions. All question styles may not be represented on exams, I will announce exam format during class. Students should bring a scantron answer sheet and pencil to submit multiple choice answers for every exam.  One exam grade will be dropped.  You may opt out of the final exam if you have taken all of the Unit Exams and are content with your grades.  The final exam is comprehensive and all questions will come from the Unit Exams.  

Labs:  25% of your total grade for the semester.  There will be no make-up for missed labs, but I will drop 1 lab grade.  You are expected to help you lab partners and fully participate in all lab activities.

There will be no extra credit given.

Attendance

Daily attendance is necessary for success in this course.

Attendance will be taken regularly

An absence may be excused if the student is participating in a school sponsored activity or due to a family emergency or personal illness (self or dependent) requiring medical care. Documentation (notification from school sponsor or physician’s note) must be submitted to the instructor. Students absent from class are responsible for checking with me to obtain assignments, course materials, announcements, handouts, etc. during their absence.

Calendar

Additional Information

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