Biology for Non-Science Majors I Syllabus for 2026-2027
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Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

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

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Statement on State-Authorized Courses at Amarillo College

For-credit academic and workforce education courses offered at Amarillo College are limited to the course options available in the statewide inventory for two-year public institutions. Courses in the state-authorized lower-division Academic Course Guide Manual and Workforce Education Course Manual have specific descriptions that prescribe course content and may include specific student learning outcomes. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) maintains and regularly updates these manuals. Amarillo College faculty and leaders ensure that these courses are aligned with THECB guidelines and evaluated based on student performance outcomes. Students enrolled in these courses are expected to engage with and learn course content. According to the AC Board of Regents Policy Manual, "faculty members are entitled to academic freedom in the conduct of research and teaching and are tasked with the associated responsibilities" (DGC). Students are entitled to academic freedom in the classroom, as well, and faculty "must not attempt to force on students a personal viewpoint and must at all times allow diversity of opinion" (Amarillo College Academic Affairs Manual).

Course

BIOL-1408-033 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

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(4 sem hrs 3 lec 2 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Shuster, Michele. Biology for a Changing World with Physiology 4th ed. WH Freeman, 2018 - REQUIRED

Laboratory Notebook: Porter, D. and Hines, T. 2003. Life Science I Lab Manual. Amarillo college Available in the Bookstore. - REQUIRED

Supplies

Required Supplies

• Access to a reliable computer and reliable internet connectivity. (There is access to computers and the internet for students at all AC campuses.)
• Three-ring binder for textbook
• Spiral notebook
• A calculator and a pencil or pen

A working cell phone with a QR code reader app.

SERVICES:

Printing, Computer Work Stations, Technology help, Scanners, Free WiFi, and Software help can be found in the BASEMENT of the WARE Building.  (371-5468).  
For Printing Services you will need funds available on your ID or TRACCARD.  Additional funds can be added to your card.

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. Apply scientific reasoning to investigate questions, and utilize scientific tools such as microscopes and laboratory equipment to collect and analyze data.
2. Use critical thinking and scientific problem-solving to make informed decisions in the laboratory.
3. Communicate effectively the results of scientific investigations.
4. Distinguish between prokaryotic, eukaryotic, plant and animal cells, and identify major cell structures.
5. Identify stages of the cell cycle, mitosis (plant and animal), and meiosis.
6. Interpret results from cell physiology experiments involving movement across membranes, enzymes, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration.
7. Apply genetic principles to predict the outcome of genetic crosses and statistically analyze results.
8. Identify the importance of karyotypes, pedigrees, and biotechnology.
9. Identify parts of a DNA molecule, and describe replication, transcription, and translation.
10. Analyze evidence for evolution and natural selection.

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

COURSE EXPECTATIONS

Every student will take personal responsibility for his/her learning in this course.

To succeed, each student must...

1. Be respectful of others in the class
2. Attend all lecture and lab meetings. This includes online lectures. 
3. Design and implement a study schedule as advised by our instructor.
4. Complete all before-class reading assignments or videos before coming to class
5. Demonstrate college-level effort and behavior by participating in lecture and lab
   • No talking during lecture to fellow students or on your cell.
   • Arrive on time.
   • Keep devices on silent.
   • Do not listen to headphones.
   • Stay off of social media during class!
6. Complete all assignments when due.
7. You are responsible for printing your notes from Blackboard and bringing them to class. Class preparedness is key to the successful completion of the class.
8. Students may only use their cell phones for the gathering of information when authorized by the instructor. If a student is using their cell phone for any other reason the student can be asked to leave class.

COURSE COMMUNICATION

Communication is an important part of your success in this course.

REMIND: For your convenience, I use the "Remind" app as a way for students to contact me without either of us needing to share personal phone numbers. You may also receive occasional course announcements or reminders through Remind. Please join the class during the first week of the semester. 

• Class Code: @a9a7h77

• Text the class code to: 81010 (if using SMS), or join by using the Remind app and entering the class code or scanning the QR code provided in class.

• You are welcome to use Remind for brief course-related questions, such as clarification about assignments, due dates, or class logistics. For questions that require detailed explanations, discussions about grades, or matters involving sensitive or personal information, please use Blackboard Messages or email instead.

Blackboard Messages and Email: You are also welcome to contact me through Blackboard Messages or by email at Lisa.Soper@actx.edu.

Response Time:  I strive to respond to messages within 24 hours on weekdays. Messages sent during evenings, weekends, holidays, or college closures may receive a response on the next business day. Please remember that Remind, Blackboard Messages, and email are intended for course-related communication and should not be used for emergencies.

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 (Dr. Richard Hobbs), the Dean of Sciences, Technology, Engineering, and Math, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the College President, IN THAT ORDER.

WEATHER:

If classes are canceled due to inclement weather, you are responsible for reading and learning the material that would have been covered. If an exam is scheduled and classes are canceled, the exam time will not be extended unless classes are canceled on the last day of an Exam. If this happens, the Instructor will set a new end date for that exam. (BE PREPARED)

If a class is canceled on the last day of the semester and an exam is scheduled, then the exam will be added to the Final Exam, and the questions will count as the exam and as the final exam. Check the AC website for new exam times if a class is canceled during finals week. Cancelations will be announced on the radio by 6:30 AM or by 3:00 PM for evening classes. Also, check the AC website.  

FINAL GRADE CHANGES:

The final grade turned in to the registrar's office will not be changed unless approved by the full-time Biology Faculty Committee. The request must be in writing. If you believe that an exam or assignment has been graded incorrectly, please email a written explanation that includes the exam number and a general explanation of the question.

WAITING UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE: 

If you wait until the last minute to complete online assignments, quizzes, or exams, you’re almost guaranteed to encounter computer or other problems. Completing assignments in advance will help ensure your successful completion of the class.

Grading Criteria

EVALUATION: 

Your final course grade will be determined using the following categories:

Lecture Exams (60%)

Lecture exams are the primary assessment of your understanding of course concepts. Exams may include multiple-choice, labeling, short-answer, and application-based questions covering material from lectures, assigned readings, classroom activities, and other course resources. A comprehensive final exam will be administered at the end of the semester. Additional information regarding exam policies will be provided in the Exam Policy section of this syllabus.

Lab Practicals & Skills (15%)

Laboratory assessments are designed to evaluate your ability to apply biological concepts and demonstrate essential laboratory skills. This category may include lab practical exams, specimen identification, microscope work, data interpretation, laboratory techniques, and other hands-on assessments completed during the semester.

Lecture Quizzes (15%)

Lecture quizzes are designed to encourage regular study and preparation for class. Quizzes may be given in class or online and may cover assigned readings, lecture material, and previously discussed concepts. Quizzes are intended to reinforce learning and help students prepare for major exams.

Unit Case Studies (10%)

Students will complete one comprehensive case study during each instructional unit (four total). Each case study requires students to apply biological concepts learned throughout the unit to analyze real-world scenarios, interpret evidence, solve problems, and support conclusions using scientific reasoning.

Access to your grades and average will be obtained through Blackboard. Detailed breakdown of grading criteria below:

GRADING: 

Grades will not be curved, and NO extra credit will be given at the end of the semester.
89.5 - 100 = A
79.5 - 89.4 = B
69.5 - 79.4 = C
59.5 - 69.4 = D
00.0 - 59.4 = F

Final Exam:

The Final Exam is comprehensive. It will cover everything from the semester's beginning, including lectures and lab materials.  Some material will come from previous exams, the rest from the textbook, other notes, assignments, and laboratories.

MAKE-UP POLICY: 

The Biological Sciences Department maintains a strict No Make-Up Policy. Assignments, quizzes, laboratory assessments, case studies, and exams missed for any reason cannot be made up. Any missed work will be recorded as a zero in the gradebook.

To provide students with some flexibility, the lowest grade in each graded category will be dropped at the end of the semester. This policy is intended to accommodate an occasional absence, illness, or unforeseen circumstance without requiring make-up work.

Students who consistently miss assignments or assessments should not expect the drop policy to offset multiple zeros. While one missed assignment in a category may ultimately be dropped, additional missed work will have a significant impact on the final course grade.

Final Exam Option

Students who are satisfied with their course grade at the end of the semester may choose to use their Final Exam as their dropped lecture exam grade rather than taking the comprehensive final exam. Additional details regarding the Final Exam Option will be provided later in the semester.

DEPARTMENT TESTING POLICY:

All Lecture Exams will be given in the Science Testing Center in the Ware Student Commons, Room 123 via normal Science Testing Center hours. Tests will be taken outside of the class lecture time. 

Please note: The Science Testing Center stops handing out exams one hour and thirty minutes before closing. You must present an Amarillo College Student ID every time you take a test. The Science Testing Center staff will retain your ID while you take your test and return it to you when you finish it. The Science Testing and Study Center hours can be found at the entrance. Students are responsible for knowing the correct days and times.

SCIENCE TESTING IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY - NO WALK-INS ALLOWED

You can call to schedule your testing time at (806) 371-5948 OR you can schedule online at https://www.actx.edu/physics/science-testing-center

Note: The Science Testing Center is limited. Some accommodations cannot be met. So if you have accommodations, please plan to test in the Testing Services center (Enrollment Center Suite 800 - Phone: (806) 371-5445). Their hours are different!

Please note:

1. The Science Testing Center stops handing out exams one hour and thirty minutes before closing.
2. You must present an Amarillo College Student ID every time you take a test.
3. The Science Testing Center staff will retain your ID while you take your test and return it to you when you finish it. 

The Science Testing and Study Center hours can be found at the entrance. Students are responsible for knowing the correct days and times. 

Attendance

Attendance

Regular attendance is essential for success in this course. Biology is a cumulative subject, and each class includes important lectures, laboratory activities, quizzes, case studies, and announcements that cannot be fully recreated outside of class. Students are responsible for all material covered in class, regardless of attendance.

Because the Biological Sciences Department has a No Make-Up Policy, missed quizzes, exams, laboratory assessments, and other graded activities will receive a zero. Although the lowest grade in each category will be dropped, regular attendance is the best way to succeed in this course.

If you stop completing class assignments and exams and are not officially dropped from the class you will receive an “F” for the course. You must contact your instructor to start the drop procedure prior to the official drop date.  Texas law now mandates that students may only drop or withdraw from 6 classes in their entire college career, this excludes drops prior to the census date

Calendar

Additional Information

Lab Safety:

Laboratory safety will be explained along with the syllabus. Material Safety Datasheets (MSDS) are stored in SCIE 110.

Biology Laboratory Safety Rules

1.     Never work alone in the laboratory without permission and prior knowledge of the instructor.

2.     Do not engage in rowdy, playful, or unprofessional activities in the laboratory. This includes not being disrespectful of your instructor or classmates.

3.     Students should wash their hands thoroughly after first entering the lab.

4.     Students may have a drink with a lid during lectures and computer labs. However, all drinks must be closed and placed in a backpack or the hall during labs. No food is allowed during lecture or lab times. 

5.    Wear appropriate clothing at all times in the laboratory. Wear closed-toe shoes that cover the top of the foot, unless permission otherwise is given by the instructor.

6.     Wear examination gloves and safety glasses when dissecting or handling cadavers, caustic chemicals, bacterial broth cultures, or as otherwise advised by your instructor.

7.   Wear gloves when handling any microorganisms. Wear lab aprons or lab coats as advised by your instructor.

8.     Keep your hands away from your face, eyes, and mouth when working with cadavers, chemicals, preserved specimens, microorganisms, or body fluids. This includes not applying cosmetics, not adjusting contact lenses, and not biting your fingernails.

9.    If any chemicals or other agents splash into your eyes, immediately go to the nearest sink and flush your eyes with water.

10.  Report ANY and ALL accidents, spills, BREAKAGES, or injuries to the instructor, no matter how trivial they appear.

11.  Scalpels and other sharp objects can be used only if authorized by the instructor and only after given proper handling instructions. Use small trays to carry all sharp objects. When handling sharp objects, point their tips down and away from other people.

12. While wearing examination gloves, students must not leave the laboratory and must not touch any equipment such as microscopes, any personal items such as cell phones, or any doorknobs.

13.  Do not use any lab equipment without instruction and authorization from the instructor.   Report any damaged or broken equipment to your instructor immediately.

14.  Lab benches should be kept free of extraneous items while conducting experiments. This includes unnecessary books, backpacks, cell phones, and other personal items.

15. Any pregnant or immunocompromised student must notify the instructor of the course. Pregnant students will not be allowed to do dissections or work with any body fluids without having a doctor’s note for permission. A pregnant student is required to wear safety glasses and 2 sets of examination gloves when handling any bacterial broths or cultures.

Universal Precautions for Students Working With Urine or Saliva

1.     Before lab, wash hands thoroughly and line the work area with clean paper towels.

2.     Students must wear gloves and may only handle their own body fluids.

3.     Students must wear lab aprons, safety glasses, and surgical masks.

4.     Rinse and dispose of all supplies that may have come into contact with urine or saliva in the appropriate biohazard container.

5.     Dispose of urine in the bathroom toilet and saliva in the sink.

6.     After the lab, wipe down the work area with disinfectant and wash hands thoroughly.

Disposal Policies

1.     Dispose of broken glassware in the marked cardboard box container. Broken glass containers are ONLY to be used for broken glass. Always use a broom and dust pan if asked to clean up broken glassware.

2.     Dispose of used slides in the glass, or plastic, container labeled “Used Slides”.

3.     Biohazardous wastes must be disposed of in a biohazard waste container. Preserved materials (e.g. cat tissues) are not considered biohazardous waste and can be disposed of in the regular trash. Your instructor will inform you which disposal containers are to be used with which type of biohazardous waste (metal sharps, glass, and non-sharps).

4.   Uncontaminated gloves can be disposed of in the regular trash. Contaminated gloves must be disposed of in a biohazard waste container. Examination gloves used in dissections are not considered to be biohazard waste and can be disposed of in the regular trash.

Expectations

1.     Each student will leave the laboratory clean and organized for the next lab section. Leave your work area as clean, or cleaner, than you found it and return lab items to the designated locations in the drawers or cabinets. Make sure waste and trash are placed in the appropriate receptacles. Be sure to collect all personal belongings before leaving for the day.

2.   Each student is required to affirm at the end of the online safety quiz the following statement: “I have reviewed and I understand the laboratory safety rules for this course. I understand that I can be dismissed from that day’s lab activity for not wearing proper shoes and clothing, or for not following proper safety procedures. I understand that repeated safety violations may result in dismissal from the rest of the laboratory exercises without the option to make up any missed laboratory grades”. Out of safety concerns, a student will not be allowed to participate in any laboratories if s/he cannot agree to this statement.