See lab syllabus for lab details.
Course Title: General Biology I
Course Description:
Lecture: Fundamental principles of living organisms will be studied, including physical and chemical properties of life, organization, function, evolutionary adaptation, and classification. Concepts of cytology, reproduction, genetics, and scientific reasoning are included.
Lab: Laboratory activities will reinforce the fundamental principles of living organisms, including physical and chemical properties of life, organization, function, evolutionary adaptation, and classification. Study and examination of the concepts of cytology, reproduction, genetics, and scientific reasoning are included. Lab required.
Course Credit Hours: 4
Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 3
Placement Assessments: Meet TSI standard for MATH 0310, and TSI college-readiness standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent
Corequisite: BIOL 1406 Laboratory
Student Learning Outcomes
State-mandated Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will:
Lecture
1. Describe the characteristics of life.
2. Explain the methods of inquiry used by scientists.
3. Identify the basic requirements of life and the properties of the major molecules needed for life.
4. Compare and contrast the structures, reproduction, and characteristics of viruses, prokaryotic cells, and eukaryotic cells.
5. Describe the structure of cell membranes and the movement of molecules across a membrane.
6. Identify the substrates, products, and important chemical pathways in metabolism.
7. Identify the principles of inheritance and solve classical genetic problems.
8. Identify the chemical structures, synthesis, and regulation of nucleic acids and proteins.
9. Describe the unity and diversity of life and the evidence for evolution through natural selection.
Lab
1. Apply scientific reasoning to investigate questions and utilize scientific tools such as microscopes and laboratory equipment to collect and analyze data. (Teamwork)
2. Use critical thinking and scientific problem-solving to make informed decisions in the laboratory. (Critical Thinking Skills)
3. Communicate effectively the results of scientific investigations. (Communication Skills)
4. Describe the characteristics of life.
5. Explain the methods of inquiry used by scientist.
6. Identify the basic properties of substances needed for life.
7. Compare and contrast the structures, reproduction, and characteristics of viruses, prokaryotic cells, and eukaryotic cells.
8. Describe the structure of cell membranes and the movement of molecules across a membrane.
9. Identify the substrates, products, and important chemical pathways in metabolism.
10. Identify the principles of inheritance and solve classical genetic problems. (Empirical & Quantitative Skills)
11. Identify the chemical structures, synthesis, and regulation of nucleic acids and proteins.
12. Describe the unity and diversity of life and the evidence for evolution through natural selection.
Withdrawal Policy: “See the current Collin Registration Guide for the last day to withdraw. “
Collin College Academic Policies: See the current Collin Student Handbook.
Americans with Disabilities Act: Collin College will adhere to all applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodations as required to afford equal educational opportunity. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the ACCESS office, SCC-D140 or 972.881.5898 (V/TTD: 972.881.5950) to arrange for appropriate accommodations. See the current Collin Student Handbook for additional information.
INSTRUCTOR INFORMATION
Instructor’s Name: Deborah Cardenas
Phone Number: 972-881-5176
Office Number: I-217 Spring Creek Campus
Office Hours: by appointment
Online Monday 10-1:30 pm
Office I-217 at Spring Creek Campus: Tuesday & Thursday 10-11:15 am
Email: dcardenas@collin.edu. Once the semester starts, all email communication should be via Canvas Inbox.
Class Information:
Section Number: BX1
Meeting Times: Daily. Students must check their Canvas email messages daily.
Meeting Location: Canvas
Minimum Technology Requirement: Review the minimum system requirements for Canvas use at: https://guides.instructure.com/m/4214/l/82542-what-are-the-basic-computer-specifications-for-canvas
Technology and Skills Required for the course:
Hardware
-A headset with a microphone for the computer (most laptops have a microphone and speakers included, but a headset is recommended)
-Scanner and digital camera
-Internet-ready computer
Software
-Google Chrome, Firefox
-Adobe Acrobat Reader
-Microsoft Word latest version or Microsoft Word Viewer
-Microsoft PowerPoint latest version or Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer
-Quick Time Player (audio/video player)
-Downloads: PowerPoint Viewer Adobe reader (PDF) Quick Time
You should know how to access Web pages when given an address, use the features of your web browser, scan documents, upload/download files, attach files to email messages, and use word processing software.
Netiquette Guidelines: Refrain from posting inappropriate messages on the discussion board and always be respectful to others when communicating online.
1. Standards of courtesy and respect must be maintained at all times in our online “classroom.” Join in to the discussion, but remember that this is still a “classroom” setting and that respect and consideration are crucial for any intellectual discussion.
2. Discussion areas are the place for intelligent and respectful airing of ideas. Personal attacks are not permitted.
3. Use proper English and grammar in all of your work and messages.
4. Any violation of the standards of appropriate behavior online will be reported to the Dean of Students and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken by the college.
Course Resources: Textbook
Campbell Biology, 11th ed., Reece, Urry, Cain, Wasserman, Minorsky, Jackson. Two options for purchasing your textbook are available. Choose the one that is more appropriate for your needs.
Additional Resources
Newspapers, science magazines and science journals. These are accessible online and via Collin Library.
Attendance Policy: To be certified as having attended this course, you must complete the orientation assignment. Online daily attendance is mandatory. Students must check their Canvas email daily for messages. Individual conflicts with this policy are to be discussed with the instructor. Students who do not officially withdraw from the course will be assigned a grade of "F". Religious Holy Days: please refer to the current Collin Student Handbook.
Method of Evaluation: At the end of the semester, the laboratory grade you earn will be integrated with the lecture grade to produce the overall course grade.
Lecture grade distribution: 5 tests (85%), 6 homework assignments (15%).
Each test is worth 17 points; 5 tests x 17points = 85 points
Each assignment is worth 2.5 points; 6 assignments x 2.5 points = 15 points
Total points = 100
Additional Work (Extra Credit work) will add bonus points to the sum of the lecture grade.
Overall course grade: Lecture 75%, lab 25%
Grading Scale: A = 90-100; B = 80-89.9; C = 70-79.9; D = 60-69.9; F = below 60
Students have up to seven days, after a grade is posted, to ask any questions concerning the test/assignment. After this time period there will be no discussion.
Description of Tests: 85% of lecture grade
The five tests must be taken on campus at Spring Creek Campus Testing Center. Once you arrive at the Testing Center, the tests are submitted online through Canvas. Read all directions and instructions for each. All test questions are weighted equally. Students will have a time limit to complete each test. You should *not* use resources of any kind or help from anyone on tests. If you go over the time limit, your score will be recorded as a zero. The tests are automatically graded as soon as they are submitted. Each test must be taken by its due date on the course calendar in Canvas. No late tests will be accepted.
Description of Assignments: 15% of lecture grade
The six assignments (three Article summaries and three textbook Exercises) are submitted online through Canvas. Each assignment will be graded based on a rubric (posted with assignment directions). Assignments will be graded, posted and returned to you one week after their due date. Each assignment must be completed by its due date on the course calendar in Canvas. No late assignments will be accepted.
Description of Extra Credit
You will be given extra credit opportunities to complete online. The extra credit points will be added to the sum of your lecture grade. Extra Credit work will be graded, posted and returned to you one week after the due date. Extra Credit must be completed by its due date on the course calendar in Canvas. No late assignments will be accepted.
Requirements For Participation In Online Discussion Or Collaborative Activities:
The purpose of the online Discussion is for student-to-student communication. Students pose questions and address each other's questions. This activity will not be graded unless otherwise noted.
Delivery Method Of Feedback and/or Graded Material:
Tests are automatically graded and scores are posted in Canvas. All test questions are weighted equally. Article summaries, textbook Exercises and Extra Credit are graded and feedback on work is posted one week after the due date. You will need to open the graded assignment to read comments made on your work
Standards for Instructor Response and Availability:
Email messages will be replied within a 48 hour period Monday 8 a.m. – Friday 8 a.m. (excluding holidays).
Course Calendar:
The instructor reserves the right to change the syllabus if needed.
Fall and Spring Tentative Schedule - see course Calendar in Canvas for details.
|
WEEK |
TOPICS |
CHAPTER |
|
1 |
Orientation and Self Introduction
Introduction Basic Chemistry |
1 2 |
|
2 |
Water Carbon Chemistry
Article 1 Assignment |
3 4 |
|
3 |
Macromolecules
Exercise 1 Assignment |
5 |
|
4 |
Test 1 Essay 1 |
|
|
5 |
The Cell |
6 |
|
6 |
Membrane Structure and Function |
7 |
|
Metabolism |
8 |
|
|
Cell Communication
Article 2 Assignment |
11 |
|
|
7 |
Test 2 Essay 2 |
|
|
8 |
Cellular Respiration Photosynthesis
Exercise 2 Assignment |
9 10 |
|
9 |
Test 3 Essay 3 |
|
|
10 |
The Cell Cycle Meiosis |
12 13 |
|
11 |
Mendelian Inheritance |
14 |
|
Human Genetics
Article 3 Assignment |
15 |
|
|
12 |
Test 4 Essay 4 |
|
|
13 |
DNA Structure and Replication Protein Synthesis Microbial Genetics Eukaryotic Gene Regulation |
16 17 18 19 |
|
14 |
DNA Technology Exercise 3 Assignment |
20 |
|
15 |
|
|
|
16 |
Test 5 |
|
Brief description of each major course requirement
Test 1: Chapters 1-5. Multiple choice test with optional essay 1.
Test 2: Chapters 6-8, 11, 27. Multiple choice test with optional essay 2.
Test 3: Chapters 9-10. Multiple choice test with optional essay 3.
Test 4: Chapters 12-14. Multiple choice test with optional essay 4.
Test 5: Chapters 15-17, 20. Multiple choice test.
Assignment #1 (Exercise 1): Biochemistry assignment.
Assignment #2 (Exercise 2): Energetics worksheets.
Assignment #3 (Exercise 3): DNA Replication and Protein synthesis assignment.
Assignment #4 (Article 1): Newspaper Article summary.
Assignment #5 (Article 2): Science Magazine Article summary.
Assignment #6 (Article 3): Science Journal Article summary.
Extra Credit: Orientation (required for roster certification) and Self Introduction
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
College Repeat Policy:
See Repeating Courses in Registration Guide https://www.collin.edu/academics/class_schedule.html
Course Drop Limit Provisions:
Students who enroll as an entering freshman or a first-time college student in undergraduate courses at any Texas public community college, technical institute, health sciences institution, or any public university offering undergraduate courses must comply with the legislation of TEC51.907. TEC51.907 states that students who enroll for the first time during the fall 2007 semester or any subsequent semester are subject to the course drop limit of six course drops. This includes any course a transfer student has dropped at another institution. Collin College will not begin to count dropped courses until the fall 2009 semester. For more information go to http://www.collin.edu/gettingstarted/register/withdrawal.html .
Course Delivery Method: Blended course
Access Canvas through your CougarWeb account. Follow login instructions. You will be able to access the site on the first day of class. If you do not have your personal CougarWeb login information, you can contact student technical support by email, cougarweb@collin.edu or by phone at 972-377-1777. If you do not know how to access the Canvas course, click on this link for a tutorial: https://collin.instructure.com/courses/506067
If taking college courses online is a new experience for you, complete the e-learning readiness assessment, SmarterMeasure assessment. This is an important tool that helps determine your skills for taking an online course. Please visit the e-Collin website, https://www.collin.edu/academics/ecollin/eLC_smartermeasure.html.
Communication with the Instructor:
Before the semester begins, students should contact the instructor using dcardenas@collin.edu. Once the course initiates, students should communicate with the instructor using email in Canvas. Email inquiries are generally answered within 48 hours Monday 8 a.m. through Friday 8 a.m. Plan ahead concerning inquiries to allow for a reasonable response time from the instructor.
Campus Security:
In case of emergency, contact Campus Police at 972.578.5555.
Blended Course:
All lecture assignments are completed on-line and lecture tests are completed on campus (SCC Testing Center). Work will have an assigned due date and must be completed and turned in by that date. This is not a self-paced course. No late work will be accepted. If an emergency arises and an assignment or assessment is missed, contact your instructor immediately and provide documentation. Keep a copy of all course work until the final grade has been posted. If technology issues arise with personal computers, students are expected to use Collin College computers for submitting work according to schedule. This course includes components that may contain links to web sites operated and maintained by other public or private entities. The College assumes no responsibility for the privacy practices or the content of such web sites that may be visited.
Academic Policies:
Every member of the Collin College community is expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. Collin College may initiate disciplinary proceedings against a student accused of scholastic dishonesty. Scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, statements, acts, or omissions related to applications for enrollment or the award of a degree, and/or the submission of one’s own work material that is not one’s own. Scholastic dishonesty may involve, but is not limited to, one or more of the following acts: cheating, plagiarism, collusion, use of annotated texts or teacher’s editions, use of information about exams posted on the Internet or electronic medium, and/or falsifying academic records. While specific examples are listed below, this is not an exhaustive list and scholastic dishonesty may encompass other conduct, including any conduct through electronic or computerized means:
Plagiarism is the use of an author’s words or ideas as if they were ones own without giving credit to the source, including, but not limited to, failure to acknowledge a direct quotation.
Cheating is the willful giving or receiving of information in an unauthorized manner during an examination; collaborating with another student during an examination without authority; using, buying, selling, soliciting, stealing, or otherwise obtaining course assignments and/or examination questions in advance, copying computer or Internet files, using someone else’s work for assignments as if it were one’s own; or any other dishonest means of attempting to fulfill the requirements of a course.
Collusion is intentionally or unintentionally aiding or attempting to aid another in an act of scholastic dishonesty, including but not limited to, failing to secure academic work; providing a paper or project to another student; providing an inappropriate level of assistance; communicating answers to a classmate about an examination or any other course assignment; removing tests or answer sheets from a test site, and allowing a classmate to copy answers.
See the current Collin Student Handbook for additional information.
Student Conduct:
The college expects students to conduct themselves in class in such a way as to not interfere with or disrupt the educational process. Students are to communicate and act in a respectful manner toward their fellow students and the professor. Those who participate in inappropriate behavior such as, excessive talking, cell phone or pager use, verbal altercations, or blatantly disregarding instructor’s directions will be asked to leave the class. Continuance of such behavior will result in permanent removal.
Academic Ethics Penalty:
In cases where an incident report has been filed for alleged violation of scholastic dishonesty, faculty are requested to delay posting a grade, for the academic work in question, until the Dean of Student's Office renders an administrative decision of the case. Students found responsible for scholastic dishonesty offenses will receive an authorized disciplinary penalty from the Dean of Students Office. The student will also receive an academic penalty. The professor will determine the appropriate academic penalty which will include but not limited to receiving a zero for the work in question and an F in the course.
Lateral Transfer Policy:
Lateral transfers will not be granted after the 4th week of class or after the first lecture exam, whichever comes first. Exceptions to this are for documented changes in work schedule or family emergencies. If a student does transfer to another section, all previous grades will accompany the student. However, the new instructor can require the student to retake any exam or quiz. For questions concerning this policy, contact the Biology Department.
Service Learning: Contact your instructor if you have an interest in Service Learning.
Copyright: Materials used in connection with this course may be subject to copyright protection.
Course links: This course includes distance learning components which may contain links to web sites operated and maintained by other public or private entities. While Collin College instructors provide link information to these sites, the College assumes no responsibility for the privacy practices or the content of such web sites. It is recommended that users consider the individual privacy policy statements of each web site they visit.
Strategies of Behavioral Intervention (SOBI) team is an interdisciplinary, college-wide team whose mission is to provide support for students, faculty, and staff, and to facilitate a positive and effective learning environment. In order to accomplish this, the SOBI team has designed a process for assisting students who may display various levels of concerning behavior (e.g., strange or unusual behavior; changes in dress, personal hygiene, or physical appearance; threats of harm to self or others; etc.). Any behavior that becomes a concern to you or that negatively affects your ability to succeed as a student at Collin College may be referred to SOBI.
https://www.collin.edu/studentresources/SOBI/
If you have difficulties:
First contact your instructor. If you are unable to resolve the problem, contact the divisional secretary on your campus.