Monday through Thursday: 8:00 - 9:00
Friday: By Appointment
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 Student Service Center office 112. 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 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.
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
The Tutoring for Success policy applies to any student whose grade or performance in the course falls below a departmentally determined minimum threshold. In either of those cases, the instructor will direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. Under this policy, the instructor will follow specific departmental guidelines governing the use, duration, and grade component of the tutoring need.
Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016
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.
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 .
BIOL-1415-001 Introduction to Biotechnology II
Biology course that focuses on an integrative approach to studying biomolecules with an emphasis on protein structures, functions and uses in the modern bioscience laboratory. Students will investigate the mechanisms involved in the transfer of information from DNA sequences to proteins to biochemical functions. The course will integrate biological and chemical concepts with techniques that are used in research and industry. Critical thinking will be applied in laboratory exercises using inquiry-based approaches, troubleshooting, and analyzing experimental data.
Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website
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.
(4 sem hrs; 3 lec, 1 lab)
On Campus Course
Lecture book
Daugherty, E. 2017. "Biotechnology: Science for the New Millennium." 2nd ed. EMC School publishing
Lab book
Daugherty, E. 2017. "Biotechnology: Laboratory manual." 2nd ed. EMC School publishing
You will need to have access to all the materials uploaded into your unit folder on blackboard. If you do not have Microsoft office you may use google doc. to complete your assignments. A video on using class materials has been supplied.
Computer access with a reliable internet connection. Programs such as Shockwave, Acrobat Reader, Adobe QuickTime may be needed. These can be downloaded for free if required.
Any and all other materials outlined by your instructor during the semester.
You will need a laboratory notebook and a black pen.
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. Not covered by the ACGM guidelines.
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".
Every student will take personal responsibility for his/her learning in this course. To succeed, each student must...
COVID compliance
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.
FINAL GRADE CHANGES: The final grade turned into the registrar's office will not be changed unless approved by the full-time Biology Faculty Committee. The request must be in writing.
TEST RULES:
Do nothing which would appear to involve cheating. Any student deemed cheating by the instructor must meet with the instructor and Department head to determine the extent of actions that will be taken by the department. Disciplinary action can include an “F” in the course and/or suspension from the college. Any form of cheating includes recording, copying, or conveying answers to help another student cheat, taking pictures of exams, using any notes or materials during an exam or quiz, stealing exams, using/stealing another individual's work (plagiarism).
If you believe that an exam or assignment has been graded incorrectly, please email a written explanation which must include: the number of the question you wish to have reconsidered and a detailed explanation of the mistake and documentation for the correct answer. Do not copy the question and send it via email, message, or letter
EVALUATION: Lecture and Lab Exams will count for 65%, Lecture/lab Quizzes and Assignments will count for 15%, and a Comprehensive Final will count 20%.
GRADING: Grades will not be curved and there will be NO EXTRA CREDIT.
89.5 - 100 = A
79.5 - 89.4 = B
69.5 - 79.4 = C
59.5 - 69.4 = D
00.0 - 59.4 = F
CHAPTER LESSONS: 8% of the total grade.
There will be chapter lessons assigned each week of the semester. The lowest grade from this category will be DROPPED. If you MISS the DUE DATE or TIME for any chapter lesson, a grade of zero will be assigned for that lesson and that will be your drop for the semester. NO MAKE-UPS will be given for any reason on any Chapter Lesson, so Please DO NOT ASK. IMPORTANT: Chapter Lessons will be due by 5:00 PM on the due date.
CHAPTER QUIZZES: 10% of the total grade.
There will be chapter quizzes assigned each week of the semester. The quizzes will cover the content from the lesson, the chapter, and any other assigned materials. All quizzes will be fill-in-the-blank, multiple-choice, labeling, and/or short answer and will range from 5-30 questions. The lowest grade from this category will be DROPPED. If you MISS the DUE DATE or TIME for any chapter quiz, a grade of zero will be assigned for that quiz and that will be your drop for the semester. NO MAKE-UPS will be given for any reason on any quiz, so please DO NOT ASK. IMPORTANT: Chapter Quizzes will be due by 5:00 PM on the due date.
Lab skills quiz: 12% of the total grade.
There will be lab skills quizzes and/or assignments made weekly during the semester. The lab assignments will supplement the lecture content. You will get only one attempt on lab quizzes and assignments. The quiz and assignment material will come from the lab materials. All lab skill quizzes and assignments can include fill-in-the-blank, multiple-choice, labeling, skill demonstrations, and/or short answer and will range from 5-30 questions. The lowest grade from this category will be DROPPED. If you MISS the DUE DATE or TIME for any lab quiz or assignment, a grade of zero will be assigned for that quiz or assignment and that will be your drop for the semester. NO MAKE-UPS will be given for any reason on any lab quiz or assignment, so please DO NOT ASK. IMPORTANT: Lab Quizzes and Assignments will be due by 5:00 PM on the due date.
Lab skill and Lecture exams: 70% of the total grade.
Lecture and laboratory material will be combined into a minimum of five(5) exams and a comprehensive final exam (total of 6 exams). Exams will be 50 multiple-choice questions. The majority of exam material will come from the lecture materials and laboratory skills, but some material will come from the textbook, online assignments, and other assigned material. If you MISS the DUE DATE or TIME for any exam, for any reason, a grade of zero will be assigned. One grade from this category will be DROPPED. NO MAKE-UPs will be given for any reason on any exam. Please DO NOT ASK.
The Final Exam is comprehensive. It will cover everything from the beginning of the semester both lecture and lab materials. Some material will come from previous exams and the rest comes from the textbook, or other notes, assignments, and laboratories. 100 multiple-choice questions. IMPORTANT the Final Exam is part of the exam category, so if you are happy with your grade going into the Final Exam you can opt to use the Final Exam as your one drop grade for the semesters. NO MAKE-UPs will be given for any reason.
FINAL EXAM: Part of the exam category
See Exams (It can be your dropped grade)
Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. It is therefore the responsibility of the student to attend class. Absences result in zeros for any missed quizzes, exams, presentations or participation grades. If you stop attending class and do not officially drop the course, you will receive an “F” for the course. A grade of “W” will be given for student-initiated drops or withdrawals. Texas law now mandates that students may only drop or withdraw 6 times in their entire college careers, excluding drops prior to the census date. Before a student can drop a class, they must first meet with the instructor.
EMAIL: The instructor will check email Monday - Thursday by 5:00 PM and Fridays by 1:00 PM. Emails after 5:00 PM will be checked the following day. The instructor will try to respond within 24 hours, except on Fridays and weekends. Remember instructors teach numerous other courses. Be patient.
Also, remember Instructor's emails are sent to your default email address. For instructions on how to change your default email address see Week One Lesson.
CLASS WEBSITE: Blackboard is utilized in this class as a grade book and e-mail system. Students will also receive announcements, print notes, assignments, photos extra reading materials, and information for the class through the content folder in Blackboard. There may be quizzes and other assignments to be completed through Blackboard. The login for ACConnect and Blackboard is the same as with WebAdvisor. If you do not have a computer or internet access at home, you have them available to you in the computer lab in the campus library second floor.
Biology Study Center: Located in the Warren building, room 110.
MSDS: You may request MSDS sheets from your instructor.
Campus Police: Campus Police NonEmergency 371-5163, in case of Emergency call 371-5911 or call 911 for city police and ambulance assistance.
Testing Contract
_______I fully understand that if I cheat or attempt to cheat on any test I will receive an automatic “F” in the course. This grade will go on my permanent transcript and cannot be removed. Cheating includes but is not limited to: the illegal use of books, notes, copying or photographing any test material, leaving the Science Testing Center with a test, and the use of any electronic devices such as unapproved calculators, cell phones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, etc. Cheating also includes helping or attempting to help other students cheat or gain an advantage on a test either inside or outside the testing center by sharing of information from the test.
All online exams must be taken using the Respondus Lockdown Browser.
_______I understand if I score below a 70 on any exam, I must complete a mandatory tutoring session with my instructor or the Science Tutoring and Success Center before requesting the next exam (excluding the Final Exams week).
I have read and understand all the above rules and requirements. Any violation of any of the above-outlined rules or requirements will result in disciplinary actions and possible “F” for the course.
Course and Section #:_________________________ Instructor Name _________________________
Student ID Number _________________
Signature: _________________________________ Print Name: _________________________________
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 hands thoroughly after first entering the lab.
4. Students are allowed to have a drink with a lid during lectures and computer labs. Otherwise, they should never ever eat or drink anything in the laboratory without explicit permission from the instructor.
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 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 finger nails.
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 door knobs.
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 lab, wipe down 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 in a biohazard waste container. Preserved materials (e.g. cat tissues) are not considered biohazardous waste and can be disposed 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 on-line 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.
03/21/21 11:06 PM
03/21/21 11:32 PM