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Master Course Outline
BIOL& 211
Biological Science I: Majors Cellular
Course Description: The first course in a three-quarter sequence for students intending to take advanced courses
in the biological sciences or to enroll in pre-professional health programs. The course covers the structures and
functions of biomolecules and cells, cell division, molecular genetics and gene expression, biotechnology, and the
genetics of development. 4 lecture hours; 3 lab hours. Satisfies science or lab requirement area “A” distribution
or specified elective for the AA degree.
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: A grade of "C" CHEM& 121 or 161 or instructor permission
Recommended Preparation: None
Co-requisites: None
Learning Outcomes: On completion the student will be able to:
 Demonstrate a basic understanding of the evolution of cellular life, and a basic understanding of the
phylogeny and relatedness of all living organisms.
 Describe the components and functions of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
 Describe the levels of protein structure and the forces that stabilize them.
 Describe the structures of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including the structures and functions of
eukaryotic organelles, and the fluid mosaic model of biological membranes.
 Describe the process involved in transport across membranes, including osmosis and active and passive
transport, as well as endocytosis and exocytosis.
 Understand the concepts of changes in free energy and equilibrium and describe their relationship to
catabolic and anabolic processes.
 Understand how enzymes function and the factors that affect enzyme-catalyzed reactions.
 Describe the aerobic and anaerobic catabolism of glucose and the metabolic fates of complex
carbohydrate, triglycerides, and proteins.
 Describe the light-dependent and light-independent reactions of photosynthesis and the effects of
photorespiration.
 Understand the cell cycle, its regulation, and the origin of cancer cells.
 Describe the stages of mitosis and meiosis and the advantages of disadvantages of asexual and sexual
reproduction.
 Solve problems involving Mendelian genetics, dominance relationships, and sex-linked genetics.
 Be familiar with common human genetic conditions.
 Describe the structures and functions of DNA and RNA and the processes of replication, transcription,
and translation.
 Describe the effects of mutations on protein structure.
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Understand the operon model of gene control in prokaryotes and methods of gene control in
eukaryotes, including epigenetics.
Describe methods of cell signaling and of signal transduction.
Understand methods of DNA analysis and of producing genetically modified organisms.
Describe the roles of the genes involved in the development of early animal embryos.
Apply ecological and biological concepts in this course to regional, national and or global issues that may
affect their lives in particular, and society in general.
Course Resources/Textbooks/Website: Campbell Biology /9th Edition, Jane B. Reece, Lisa A. Urry, Michael L.
Cain, Steven A. Wasserman, Peter V. Minorsky/ Pearson Publishing / ISBN: 0321558235
Academic Integrity: All forms of cheating, falsification, and plagiarism are against the rules of this course and of
Grays Harbor College. Students who are unsure what constitutes academic dishonesty are responsible for asking
the instructor for clarification. Instances of intentional academic dishonesty will be dealt with severely.
Disabilities: Students who have documented disabilities that require accommodations in compliance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the Disability Support Services coordinator as well as the
instructor of the course in order to ensure that together we create an optimal environment for educational
achievement.
W Day: W Day, the final day to officially withdraw from a course is the Thursday of the seventh week (Thursday
of the fourth week for summer quarter). Students who do not withdraw by that date will receive the grades they
have earned, regardless of whether they are attending the course or completing the work. Students who are
considering withdrawal are strongly advised to consult with the instructor, advisor and financial aid prior to
withdrawing. The only withdrawals allowed after W Day are complete withdrawals from all courses.
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