BIOL 1504: Principles of Biology

Download as PDF
Subject
Biology
Credit Hours 4.0 Lecture Hours 3.0 Lab Hours 2.0
Type of Credit
Baccalaureate/Transfer
View Class Schedule
Course Description
This biology survey course is intended for non-science majors to satisfy the general education laboratory science requirement. Course topics include scientific methodology, biological chemistry, cell structure and function, metabolism, genetics, evolution, diversity of life, and ecology. AAS: Life science (laboratory science) elective. IAI: L1 900L.
Prerequisite(s)
Appropriate assessment score or ENGL 1422 with a grade of C or better - Must be taken either prior to or at the same time as this course.

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to apply the scientific method in conducting a basic investigation in the biological sciences.
  • Identify basic chemical structures of the types of macromolecules found in living organisms.
  • Compare and contrast eukaryotic and prokaryotic cellular structure.
  • Compare and contrast the flow of energy through living organisms
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply Mendelian genetics to interpret hereditary patterns.
  • Describe the evidence for organic evolution and relate that evidence to the process.
  • Describe how the taxonomic hierarchical system of classification reflects evolutionary patterns of descent.
  • Distinguish between biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem and describe how human interactions with these components may influence the biosphere.
  • Examine the impact of biology in today’s society.
Topical Outline

1. Introduction to Life/ Scientific Method   
2. Basic Chemistry                                                                                   
3. Basic Organic Chemistry                                                           
4. Cellular Structure & Function                                        
5. Cellular Transport                                                
6. Cellular Metabolism & Enzymes                                   
7. Cellular Respiration                                                                              
8. Photosynthesis                                                                                     
9. Cell Division (mitosis & meiosis)                                   
10. Genetics (Mendelian & Human)                                     
11. Molecular Genetics (DNA & RNA)                                                                               
12. Evolution                                                                
13. Ecology                                                                                                            
14. Population Growth & Global concerns