BIO131

Download as PDF

Introduction to Biology

BiologyScience, Tech, Engr & Math

Overview Goals, Topics, and Objectives Assessment, Requirements, and Outcomes Register for this Course

Core Course Topics

The nature of science and the properties of life
1. Scientific method
2. Scientific reasoning and experimental design
3. Properties of living things
4. Major themes in biology
Biological chemistry
1. Atomic structure and bonds
2. Water as a biological solvent
3. Effects of pH on living systems
4. Carbon-based macromolecules
5. Enzymes
Biology of cells
1. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure
2. Plant and animal cell structure
3. Membranes
4. Organelle structure and function
5. Cell cycle
6. Mitotic cell division
Genetics
1. Chromosomes
2. Meiotic cell division
3. Sexual reproduction
4. Errors in meiosis
5. Mendelian inheritance
DNA, RNA, and protein
1. DNA structure
2. DNA replication
3. Transcription
4. Translation
5. Mutations
6. The genetic basis of cancer
7. Biotechnology
Evolution and classification
1. How populations change
2. Evidence for evolution
3. Mechanisms of evolution
4. Classification
Energy transformations
1. Energy in living systems
2. Cellular respiration and fermentation
3. Photosynthesis
Diversity
1. Prokaryotes
2. Viruses
3. Fungi
4. Protists
5. Plants
  - Structure and function
  - Major groups of plants
6. Animals
  - Structure and function
  - Major groups of animals
Human body systems
1. Organization and homeostasis
2. Tissues
3. Digestive system
4. Respiratory system
5. Cardiovascular system
6. Immune system
7. Endocrine system
8. Urinary system
9. Reproductive system
Ecology
1. Community ecology
2. Ecosystems and the biosphere
3. Biodiversity
4. The effects of humans on the environment
5. Conservation

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Explain and apply the scientific method; demonstrate scientific reasoning.

Identify the properties of a properly-designed scientific experiment.

Conduct experiments and communicate findings with clarity.

Use critical thinking to analyze experimental data.

Demonstrate proficiency in core biological lab skills while adhering to safety standards.

Recall, interpret, and apply foundational biological concepts aligned with unit objectives.

Identify and explain the defining properties of living organisms.

Describe the chemical basis of living organisms.

Describe cell structure and function.

Explain the role of negative feedback in homeostasis.

Describe material cycling and energy flow in ecosystems.

Analyze interactions among organisms and with their environment.

Predict inheritance patterns using knowledge of the relationship between DNA, RNA and proteins.

Explain how evolutionary theory applies to the structure and function of living organisms.

Explain the role of natural selection in evolution.

Explain how evolution accounts for both the unity and diversity of life.

Describe levels of organization and related functions in plants and animals.

Assess the impact of human activity on natural systems.

Demonstrate professional behavior in all aspects of the course.