Miami-Dade College (Wolfson Campus)
School of Natural Sciences
Course
Principles of Biology I Laboratory
Syllabus
Reference BSC 2010 Lab
Term
2011-01
Last Update: 6/15/2006 7:42 PM
Instructor: Juan M. Morata
Office: 1602
Department, Room: 1540
Campus Wolfson
Phone: 305 237-7963
Department Front Desk: 305 237-3658
E-mail: jmorata@mdc.edu
Office Hours: As posted in office door, and/or professor’s website http://faculty.mdc.edu/jmorata/
The above course links to the following Learning Outcomes:
Communication
Numbers / Data
Critical thinking
Information Literacy
Cultural / Global Perspective
Social Responsibility
Ethical Issues
Computer / Technology Usage
Aesthetic / Creative Activities
Environmental Responsibility
MDC Mission Statement
The mission of Miami Dade College is to provide accessible, affordable, high quality education by
keeping the learner's needs at the center of decision-making and working in partnership with its
dynamic, multi-cultural community.
Course Description
This laboratory course was designed to supplement the lecture course of BSC 2010 and enable
the student to apply the theories, concepts and information learned in a more practical and
realistic situation. Safe and proper techniques in handling the microscope, the computer-based
educational software and other laboratory tools and equipment will be emphasized to develop
proficiency and skill in performing various laboratory activities that emphasize biological
concepts. It is aspired that the student will appreciate the science of biology and understands the
many wonders of life.
Goals and Objectives
The course will enable the student to be competent in the following categories:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Scientific methods and the process of experimentation
Chemistry and dynamics of biomolecules
Photosynthesis and energy flow through organisms.
Reproduction, genetics and the cell cycle.
Use and understanding of the process and function of scientific equipment and tools used in
the study of biology.
General Education Outcomes details: Please go to page 9.
Course Competencies: Please go to page 10.
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TEXTBOOK:
Campbell, N. A., and J. B. Reece. Eighth Edition. 2005. Biology. Symbiosis Custom laboratory
manual developed for BSC 2010 L by MDC-Wolfson Campus Natural Sciences Faculty.
Published by Benjamin Cummins/ Pearson Custom Publishing Company. 2005.
You might want to bring the textbooks to class because the professor will constantly refer to
them during labs. The Lab textbook is an essential component of your instruction in the Biology
Laboratory. Your textbook is equally important because complimentary reading assignments
will reinforce the instruction in this lab. It is very difficult to succeed in this course without
them. Therefore, no one will be admitted to class after the second week of classes without the
required textbooks for this class.
The laboratory portion of the Principles of Biology I course is an important integral part of your
education in Biology. The lab manual presents the basic techniques and procedures in a selfinstructional manner. Instruction will also be supplemented with verbal directives and handouts.
The purpose of this approach is to encourage you to THINK for yourself, DO for yourself,
TAKE the INITIATIVE, and be RESPONSIBLE for your own learning. Planning ahead,
reading the assigned material before lab, working efficiently, and thinking about what you are
doing before you do it will pay great dividends. So do not be bashful, cooperate and do your
share of the work when working in groups, do your own work on individual tasks, don’t be
afraid to ask questions, and HAVE FUN. This course can be a very enjoyable experience.
LABORATORY POLICY
Students are expected to be prepared before a particular lab by completing all reading
assignments for that particular lab date. At the beginning of the laboratory period the
instructor will explain in sufficient detail what you are to do so that you can complete the
exercise(s) on your own. Please pay attention and ask questions if you are confused. The
instructor will not do the exercises for you. However, he will be there to help and guide
you. It will be to your advantage, then, to be familiar with the exercise(s) assigned on a
particular date. Not reading your laboratory manual/textbook will waste valuable time for
you, your fellow students, and the professor. Do not waste time! The semester will be over
before you know it!
Laboratory will begin on time. The instructor only has to be here during regularly scheduled
laboratory hours. Students will also be responsible for cleaning after lab. Therefore, make sure
your schedule permits for activities occurring outside regular lab periods because students are
expected to make observations and start experiments outside regular lab periods. Please, make
sure to accommodate your weekly schedule to perform these required learning activities
This laboratory requires extra time and effort on your part in order to make good progress. Be
flexible and able and willing to go the extra mile to do well.
Pre-Lab lecture/Labs:
As mentioned, students are expected to read the assigned material before the schedule date.
Presentation of lecture material will include traditional methods as well as more contemporary
media technological applications and animations of different biological processes in cell and
molecular biology, genetics, evolution and ecology. You will be sent to Room 2221 is for
completing, reviewing and studying laboratory material.
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ATTENDANCE:
Attendance to all learning activities is mandatory. You are responsible for all deadlines,
directions, discussions, materials, activities, assignments, or announcements covered in lab,
regardless of your reason for being absent. Attendance will be checked for every scheduled
laboratory session. The professor reserves the right to deny entry, require withdrawal or fail
students who are constantly late or have had three undocumented absences during the
semester. If a student is late three times, the instructor has the right to assign a lower letter
grade at the end of the semester. Also, If the student has an undocumented absence after the
withdrawal deadline, the professor will assign a failing (F) grade regardless of the student's
performance in the course at the time. The room will be locked out 10 minutes after the lab
session has started and students will not be allowed to enter the lab. Therefore, make every
effort to attend lab on time because the Professor will lock the room and you will receive a zero
for the scheduled experiment otherwise. This will be enforced according to the rules and
procedures established in the current Miami-Dade College catalog and student handbook. Your
performance in the course depends on your attendance to all lab sessions as scheduled. Students
missing lab are not participating and therefore, not learning. Therefore, make every effort to
attend and participate in labs because your performance in this course will be severely affected
otherwise. Furthermore, we will use computer software that supports instruction for most
labs; therefore, make sure that you provide your own set of headphones for all lab sessions.
EXAMINATIONS and PROJECTS:
_____________ 20 %
_____________ 20 %
_____________ 20%
_____________ 20%
_____________ 20%
A= 90-100
Exam 1
Exam 2
Exam 3
Exam 4
Lab Reports/Presentation, Lab Technique, Participation
B=80-89
C=70-79
D=60-69
F=59 and below
The professor reserves the right to deny entry, require withdrawal or fail students who are
constantly late or have had three undocumented absences during the semester. If a student is
late three times, the instructor has the right to assign a lower letter grade (including F) at the
end of the semester.
Service Learning is highly encouraged in this course. Students who participate in Service
Learning will be granted up to 10 points extra credit towards their final grade. Service-learning
and I requires students to volunteer a minimum of 45 hours with a nonprofit organization that
works on issues related to the environment or science. The Center for Community Involvement
will provide you with a list of agencies and guide you through the service-learning process.
Students must also write a 2-3 pages final report and do a presentation reflecting their service
experience. Extra points will be based on hours and the final report. Be aware that the points
will not be awarded until a certificate is given by the Service Learning Department. Also, no
any other extra credit can be combined with this one.
EXAM MAKES UP, INCOMPLETE AND WITHDRAWALS:
Make Up exams or Incomplete grades will be given only when extenuating circumstances occur
(WAR, family emergencies, automotive accidents, etc.) and as agreed upon between student and
teacher. The student MUST be in good standing (grade of C or better) and should complete the
course in the TIME agreed upon. If not, the grade of FAIL will be given.
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You must Immediately notify the instructor regarding an absence on the day of an exam (that day
or the next day, by phone or e-mail) Do not wait a full week until you attend class again before
communicating with me, and providing to me an acceptable documents excusing the absence.
WITHDRAWALS and class DROP are the responsibility of the student and should be done
within the given time as specified in the MDC academic calendar.
CONDUCT AND DEMEANOR:
Proper scholastic behavior is expected of the student. We are mature individuals and should
follow the socially accepted norms of conduct and etiquette, especially within school grounds
and during class sessions. Any type of misconduct or unwarranted activities (cheating,
plagiarism, drug use, etc.) will be dealt with in the MDC approved manner.
Questions and other issues regarding the class can be discussed either during the given question
and answer session per class time or by appointment during my office hours.
The use of electronic devices (cell phones, beepers, game boys, Walkman, DVD players, etc.) is
NOT tolerated during lecture time. The following regulations concerning cellular phone usage
will be strictly enforced in all classrooms and laboratories. STUDENTS WHO FAIL TO COMPLY
WITH THE FOLLOWING RULES MAY BE ASKED TO LEAVE THE CLASS.




All cellular phones must be turned off or placed in silent mode prior to entering the
classroom or laboratory.
Use of cellular phones during lecture and lab is strictly prohibited. Student will be asked
to leave the class if the cell phone rings or is used. In the laboratory, use of the cell
phone will be considered a safety violation and the student will be asked to leave the lab
immediately.
All cellular phones must be stored in your purse, book-bag, or pocket during lecture or
lab. Hands-free earpieces must also be stored and cannot be worn during lecture or lab.
In addition to phone conversations, the cellular phone may not be used for text
messaging, picture messaging, web browsing, etc. during lectures and labs.
Your professor gives you his/her undivided attention during class. Please have the courtesy to do
the same in return.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
MAKE A COMMITMENT TO SUCCEED:
Decide to do well in the course. Spend the time. Be responsible for your own learning. Expect to
learn more than what is covered in class or textbook.
GET HELP RIGHT AWAY:
Do not wait for someone to ask if you need help. Talk with your professor, lab assistants, and
your study group. The professor encourages frequent visits during office hours to clarify
material covered in class. If you cannot make it to the professor's office hours, please make an
appointment. Your success in this course depends on how well you understand the concepts
covered during the semester. Use the Study partner CD-ROM, and the Study Guide that
accompanies the textbook, and the computer courtyard. Review your notes after each
class.
WORK WITH A STUDY GROUP:
Meet regularly. Be sure everyone contributes and understands.
TIE IDEAS AND CONCEPTS TOGETHER:
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Connect the material to what you already know. Look for the big picture, not just isolated
details. Be able to apply information in a new situation.
LEARN THE VOCABULARY:
Look up any words you do not know. Make and use flash cards, carry them everywhere. Say
the terms out loud. Use the new terms in sentences. Therefore, make every effort to learn the
vocabulary and use the dictionary appropriately.
PREPARE FOR LECTURE BEFORE CLASS:
Read the text assignments. Read effectively. Use the study aids in the book. Answer the
questions at the end of the chapter. Highlight sparingly. Write down questions to ask during the
next lecture period. Make every effort to know the material before class begins.
UTILIZE ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO YOU
Additional help in form of sample exams and quizzes lecture notes and other didactic materials
are available through the many links that could be accessed through the World Wide Web for
this course. Please, feel free to use the available the equipment at the Computer Courtyards
(Rooms 2201 and 2301) and the Science Resource/Tutoring Center (room 2221) for this purpose.
PREPARE FOR LABS BEFORE CLASS:
Read and highlight the handouts. Tie it to the lecture material. Write down questions to ask.
Make notes of what to look for.
COME TO CLASS:
Attend every class. Remember that attendance is mandatory. Be on time. Bring your textbook
and handouts. Be attentive and take notes.
STUDY EVERY DAY:
Follow a study schedule. Find times and places that allow you to concentrate. Review and
rewrite your notes after class. Outline the material. Draw concept maps and/or use diagrams.
ORGANIZE THE INFORMATION:
Make outlines to summarize, organize, and relate key ideas. Know where your notes, handouts,
etc. are.
You Must Study to Understand…
You Must Understand, To Learn
Don’t Always Memorize! Analyze.
Students are encouraged to approach the instructor regarding
any and all
conditions that may affect their equal opportunity to learn.
Students: you must bring your own scantron form 882-E and No. 2 Pencils for
the tests.
NOTE: ALL students are required to bring their own safety glasses and head
phones/ earphones to every lab!!
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TENTATIVE LECTURE SCHEDULE1
Week
Day
1
August 22
Topic________________________
Course Introduction/The Scientific Process
Laboratory Safety Procedures
Macintosh Tutorial
Metric System
Introduction to CyberEd CD
The Chemical Basis of Life
Molecular Models
The Chemistry of Water
The Chemical Basis of Life
Molecular Models
The Chemistry of Water
2
Text Chapter__
Pp. 1-562
Pp. 236-2382
Pp. 245-2512
Ch. 13
Appendix
Handouts
Ch. 2-53
Handouts
CyberED CD
Ch. 2-53
Handouts
CyberED CD
August 29
3
September 5
Acid-Base Chemistry
Building Blocks
Macromolecules
Pp. 57-682
Ch. 33
The Chemical Basis of Life
Molecular Models
Ch. 2-53
Handouts
The Chemistry of Water
Acid-Base Chemistry
Building Blocks
Macromolecules
CyberED CD
Pp. 57-682
Ch. 33
EXAM I
4
September 12
September 19
5
6
September 26
Cell Structure and Function
Microscopy-Use and Care of the Microscope
Prepare slides and wet mounts
Cell Structure and Function
Microscopy-Use and Care of the Microscope
Prepare slides and wet mounts
Plasma Membrane Structure and Function
Transport Across Plasma Membranes
Plasma Membrane Structure and Function (cont.)
Transport Across Plasma Membranes
Pp. 69-882
Ch. 63
Pp. 89-1062
Pp. 69-882
Ch. 63
Pp. 89-1062
Ch. 73
CyberEd CD
Pp. 89-1062
Ch. 73
CyberEd CD
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7
October 3
EXAM II
Enzyme Structure and Function
Introduction to Metabolism
Respiration
8
9
October 10
October 17
Pp. 107-1322
Ch. 8-93
and
Cellular
CyberEd CD
Pp. 133-1602
Ch. 103
CyberEd CD
Pp. 133-1602
Ch. 103
Photosynthesis I
Photosynthesis II
CyberEd CD
10
11
12
October 24
EXAM III
Cellular Reproduction: Mitosis and Meiosis
Slides
Mitosis in the Onion Root Tip
Meiosis in Ascaris
Cellular Reproduction: Mitosis and Meiosis
Slides
October 31
Mitosis in the Onion Root Tip
Last day to Drop Meiosis in Ascaris
with a Grade of
“W” is October
DNA Structure & Replication
31
Protein Synthesis
November 7
13
November 14
15
Handouts
CyberEd CD
Ch. 163, 173
CyberEd CD
DNA Structure & Replication
Protein Synthesis
Ch. 163, 173
CyberEd CD
Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (set up)
Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms
DNA Sequencing (Dry Lab)
Pp. 203-2342
Ch. 12, 133
Ch. 203
CyberEd CD
Pp. 203-2342
Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (set up)
14
Pp. 161-2022
Handouts
CyberEd CD
Pp. 161-2022
November 21
Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms
DNA Sequencing (Dry Lab)
Ch. 12, 133
Ch. 203
CyberEd CD
November 28
Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Lab wrap
up
Pp. 203-2342
Ch. 12, 133
Ch. 203
CyberEd CD
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EXAM IV
16
December 5
174
December 12
SERVICE LEARNING Paper
Submission and Presentations
and
Hours
EXAM IV / Lab Clean-up ????
1. Exact lecture topics are subject to change. In fact, all parts of this document (including
policies and procedures) are subject to change at the discretion of the professor.
2. Indicate reading assignments from the Lab Manual.
3. Indicate reading assignments from text by Campbell and Reece et al.
4. The Professor reserves the right to use week 17 to schedule the Final Exam as part of the
Final Examination Week.
Holidays: September 5, November 13, 24, and 25.
General Education Outcomes in BSC 2010L, Principles of Biology I Laboratory:
Purpose: Through the academic disciplines and co-curricular activities, General Education provides
multiple, varied, and intentional learning experiences to facilitate the acquisition of fundamental
knowledge and skills and the development of attitudes that foster effective citizenship and life-long
learning. As graduates of Miami Dade College, students will be able to:
1. Communicate effectively using listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
In this course, the communication outcome will be reinforced by at least one essay and project
assignment related to a laboratory topic or article. In addition to content, essays will also be
graded for correct use of grammar and spelling. Project presentation will be graded based on
content and presentation skills.
2. Use quantitative analytical skills to evaluate and process numerical data.
Numbers are the language that can be integrated in Biology. In this class, you will have to be able
to read and identify pertinent numerical scientific data. You will be required to manipulate the data
using equations and dimensional analysis. Quantitative analysis is reinforced in this course.
3. Solve problems using critical and creative thinking and scientific reasoning.
In the allied health field, critical thinking is an essential skill. Solving numerical problems is not
enough. You must be able to critically look at the problem and determine whether or not the answer
makes sense. You must be able to determine a logical sequence of steps to solve problems, both
qualitative and numerical. Critical thinking and scientific reasoning are heavily reinforced in this
course.
4. Formulate strategies to locate, evaluate, and apply information.
At least one essay assignment related to a current topic project will be completed during the
semester. In reviewing the article, you will need to find and reference supplementary information to
support your viewpoint.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of diverse cultures, including global and historical perspectives.
This outcome is touched upon in this course, in relation primarily to historical landmarks in
biology, evolution and genetics.
6. Create strategies that can be used to fulfill personal, civic, and social responsibilities.
This outcome is reinforced in this course through your project assignment and testing, which
requires you to develop and learn strategies in order to become better citizens and environmental
conscious.
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7. Demonstrate knowledge of ethical thinking and its application to issues in society.
Students will be required to discuss the actions that would lead to different ethical dilemmas, and
the resulting consequences. Students will be asked to describe how they would have acted in a
similar situation.
8. Use computer and emerging technologies effectively.
The majority of all homework assignments will be completed using CyberED, a computer based
course tool. In addition, Course Compass is an online course tool that will be used to get lectures
and other pertaining information. All course progress reports will be sent to you via email.
Students must therefore be able to use a personal computer, navigate the internet, and retrieve
email. In addition, any essay assignments must be completed using a word processing program.
9. Demonstrate an appreciation for aesthetics and creative activities.
This outcome is not reinforced in this course.
10. Describe how natural systems function and recognize the impact of humans on the
environment.
The nature of biological molecules and their role in biological systems will be a major topic in this
course. Students will be able to name, identify, and list biological, chemical and physical properties
of inorganic and organic compounds, as well as biological macromolecules. Students will also be
able to identify the role of biological molecules in living systems. The environmental and health
impact of certain types of biological molecules and systems will be discussed.
Course Competencies:
Competency 1: Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate knowledge of
the nature of scientific investigation and tools biologists use by:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
identifying and posing questions that can be answered through scientific investigation.
defining the term hypothesis and describing the characteristics of a good scientific hypothesis.
listing and describing, in order, the various components of a proper scientific experiment.
summarizing and presenting results in tables and graphs.
discussing, interpreting and communicating the results of a scientific experiment.
identifying and explaining the function of the various parts of a compound microscope and
demonstrating proficiency in its correct use.
g. identifying and explaining the function of the various parts of a dissecting microscope and
demonstrating proficiency in its correct use.
h. explaining how an electron microscope functions and its applications in biology.
Competency 2: Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate knowledge of
the nature of the chemistry of life by:
a. analyzing the spatial relationships of atoms in biologically important molecules.
b. describing the nature of covalent bonds and how they are broken and reformed to rearrange atoms
into new molecules.
c. explaining the nature of and constructing models of simple hydrocarbons and the six basic functional
groups.
d. depicting, with models, the spatial relationships of isomers.
e. constructing simple biologically important molecules such as simple sugars, fatty acids, and amino
acids.
f. describing the structure and function of enzymes.
g. distinguishing between competitive and noncompetitive enzyme inhibition.
h. discussing the effects of varying pH, temperature and enzyme concentration on the rate of
enzyme activity.
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i. proposing hypotheses about enzymes and making predictions based on these hypotheses.
j. constructing and interpreting graphs of enzyme activity.
Competency 3: Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate knowledge of
cell structure and function by:
a. identifying cell structures and organelles using the light microscope and from electron
photomicrographs and stating the functions of each.
b. describing the features of selected cell types and listing the characteristics shared by certain types of
cells.
c. discussing the evolutionary significance of increasing complexity from unicellular to multicellular
organization and providing examples of the various stages.
d. describing the processes of diffusion and osmosis, the factors that influence them and their
importance to cells.
e. explaining the nature and importance of selectively permeable membranes in living cells.
f. defining and correctly applying the terms: hypoosmotic, hyperosmotic, and isoosmotic.
g. observing and discussing the responses of plant and animal cells when exposed to these media.
Competency 4: Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate knowledge of
metabolism, including the processes of respiration and photosynthesis, by:
a.
b.
c.
d.
describing the processes of fermentation and cellular respiration.
explaining the nature of redox reactions as they occur in cellular metabolism.
summarizing the basic working principles of a simple respirometer.
identifying the basic principles of spectrophotometry and demonstrating ability to effectively use a
spectrophotometer.
e. explaining how light and pigments interact in photosynthesis.
f. naming and describing the several pigments that participate in photosynthesis.
g. explaining the nature of and demonstrating proficiency in paper chromatography as it is used to
separate the pigments of photosynthesis.
Competency 5: Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate knowledge of
the continuity of life by:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
describing the cell cycle and explaining the events occurring in each stage.
identifying the phases of mitosis in plant and animal cells.
comparing and contrasting mitosis and cytokinesis in plant and animal cells.
comparing and contrasting mitosis and meiosis.
recognizing human chromosomes when presented with an appropriate preparation under the
microscope and in a karyogram.
discussing the basic principles of Mendelian inheritance.
explaining and applying the concepts involved in human blood typing.
applying the principles of Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance patterns to solve genetics
problems.
describing the processes of transcription and translation.
identifying the basic principles of genetic engineering and discussing the controversies associated
with this new technology.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I, _________________________________________, student ID ________________________,
understand and acknowledge that:
(i)
I read and understood the Syllabus.
(ii)
I may obtain assistance from my instructor and from the Science Lab located in Room
2221.
(iii)
I understand that I must follow laboratory safety rules and wear safety goggles when
appropriate.
(iv)
If applicable, I will turn off my cell phone and put it away so that it is not visible to me or
to the instructor.
(v)
Student will be asked to leave the class if the cell phone rings or is used.
(vi)
I MAY NOT use my cell phone calculator capabilities in class or in exams.
(vii)
There are NO MAKE UP tests should I miss an exam.
(viii) NO EXTRA CREDIT will be considered other than the one awarded by the instructor.
(ix)
I may not leave the classroom once the test begins.
(x)
Cheating and disruptive behavior may result in serious consequences such as course
failure or dismissal from the college.
(xi)
The course schedule may change due to unforeseen circumstances.
(xii)
The final exam will be given during date and time scheduled by the Registrar’s office.
_______________________
Student’s Name
JUAN MORATA
Instructor’s Name
_________________________________
Student’s Signature
Date: ____________________________
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