Department: Life Sciences (Biology)
Introduction to Biology
Fall 2015
BIOL 1308 - CRN# 81658
Course location and times:
Course semester credit hours:
Course contact hours:
Course length:
Instruction type:
West Loop Campus, Room: 261C; Mon. and Wed. 2:00 p.m.- 3:30 p.m.
3 Semester credit hours
48 lecture hours
16 weeks (including holidays)
On Campus
Instructor:
Phone:
Email address:
Office location and hours:
Adrienne Towns
713-664-9712
adrienne.towns@hccs.edu or atowns@houstonisd.org (preferred)
Monday 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 11:00 a.m.-11:40 a.m.
Textbook
Simon, Eric, Dickey, Jean, and Jane Reece. CAMPBELL ESSENTIAL BIOLOGY WITH PHYSIOLOGY, 4TH
EDITION. Pearson Benjamin Cummings, 2014, ISBN 10:1-269-75336-3. There are special soft-bound issues designed
specifically for the one semester HCCS course (HCCS Edition). This edition may be found in the Bookstore and this is the
required text. It may be possible to “rent” the text from the Bookstore. Important: You will be able to open an account with
Pearson to access “Mastering Biology”, an on-line study guide.
Course Description
This course is an introduction to biological chemistry, biological processes, cellular morphology, metabolism, heredity,
and molecular genetics.
Prerequisites:
Student must qualify to take GUST 0342 (or higher) in reading and ENGL 0310/0349 (or higher) in writing. Otherwise
the basic intellectual competencies for core courses include reading, writing, speaking, listening, critical thinking, and
computer literacy.
BIOLOGY PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (PSLO):
 Program SLO #1
o
Describe scientific terminology and learn accurate use of as they apply to living organisms. To recognize,
identify, and describe the basic structures and functions associated with most life forms.

Program SLO #2
o

Define principles of living organisms including physical and chemical properties of life.
Program SLO #3
o
Understand physiologic function at the level of molecules and cells, including biological macromolecules,
cellular organization, communication, and cell division. Understand energy transformations and the
metabolic reactions associated with cellular activities, such as the processes of glycolysis, fermentation,
cellular respiration, and photosynthesis.
1

Program SLO #4
o
Understand the molecular sequence of events involved in the flow and expression of genetic information
in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, with special emphasis on the understanding of DNA replication, RNA
transcription, and protein biosynthesis.

Program SLO #5
o
Understand the basic concepts of Mendelian genetics, perform and interpret genetic problems. Describe
advances made in the understanding of chromosomes, genes, and nucleic acids that form the basis of
modern molecular genetics.

Program SLO #6
o
Apply scientific method by asking a question, observing, developing and testing a hypothesis by
experiment, collecting and writing organized reports. Develop critical thinking and distinguish theory
from a hypothesis.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (SLO):
The following Student Learning Outcomes with their associated assessment criteria are not meant to be all inclusive, and
are meant to be used along with all other course learning outcomes and assessment devices, listed under Course
Objectives, in the determination of the student's final course grade. Completion of the specific Student Learning
Outcomes listed below, at any assessment grading level, does NOT and will NOT guarantee the student that final course
grade at the end of the semester!

Bio 1308 SLO#1
o
The student will be able to recognize and describe, in scientific terminology, the basic structure and
describe the function of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cellular organelles and cell systems.

Bio 1308 SLO#2
o
The student will be able to define the physical and chemical principles and their manifestation in living
organisms.

The properties of elements, atoms, sub atomic particles.

The attraction of chemical bonds

The properties of molecules, compounds

The nature of strong and weak chemical bonds, and how special properties are conveyed through
polar attractions.

Bio 1308 SLO#3
o
The student will be able to explain the synthesis and properties of

Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, and Nucleic acids

Cell organization and the cell theory

Understand energy transformation , e.g., fermentation, cellular metabolism, and photosynthesis

Understand the processes of asexual and sexual cell division
2

Bio 1308 SLO#4
o
The student will understand the molecular sequence of events in the flow and expression of genetic
information, in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.


Protein Synthesis (Transcription and Translation)
Bio 1308 SLO#5
o
The student will understand the basics of Mendelian genetics and modern molecular genetics.

Work problems involving dominance, recessiveness, co-dominance, and incomplete dominance.

Understand the principles of chance

Understand the principles and steps involved in constructing recombinant organisms in genetic
engineering.

Bio 1308 SLO#6
o
The student will demonstrate the ability to solve problems through the application of the scientific
method.
o
Will develop those critical thinking skills that will allow the student to sift fact from fiction without being
swayed by emotional testimony or political spin.
Course Objectives
(Text pages 1- 234)
1. Introduce students to modern concepts of biology.
2. Introduce students to the chemical and molecular basis of life.
3. Introduce students to the intricate levels of molecular mechanisms that manifest life, i.e., respiration,
photosynthesis, heredity.
Successful completion of this course should provide the student with a good introduction to biological sciences and a
grasp of biological principles that will allow them to function as knowledgeable and informed citizens in a Society that
demands a greater sophistication in the modern sciences, particularly as they pertain to molecular technology, forensic and
judiciary matters, environmental, and medical issues.
CORE CURRICULUM STATEMENT: Lecture exams and class activities will enhance the learning process by giving
the student the opportunity to demonstrate the basic intellectual competencies of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and
showing critical thinking and problem solving ability.
HCC Statement Policies:
Attendance Policy
Class attendance is required. The HCCS attendance policy is stated in the Schedule of Classes: “Students are expected to
attend classes regularly. Students are responsible for materials covered during their absences, and it is the student's
responsibility to consult with instructors for make-up assignments. Class attendance is checked daily by instructors.
Although it is the responsibility of the student to drop a course for non-attendance, the instructor has full authority to drop a
student for excessive absences. A student may be dropped from a course for excessive absences after the student has
accumulated absences in excess of 12.5% of the hours of instruction (including lecture and laboratory time).” Note that
12.5% is approximately 2 classes for a 3 semester hour course, such as this one.
Last Day for Administrative and Student Withdrawals
If it should become necessary to do so, the student is responsible for filing a drop slip for the course by the last drop date to
receive a grade of “W”, or otherwise a grade of “F” will be assigned. For 16 week Fall 2015 classes, the last drop date is
October 14. Please see me before taking this action. However, instructors will no longer be able to assign a “W” for you
after that date. You will receive the grade you earn, with no exceptions.
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Disability Support Services (DSS)
Any student with a documented disability (e.g. physical, learning, psychiatric, vision, hearing, etc.) who needs to arrange
reasonable accommodations must contact the Disability Services Office at the respective college at the beginning of each
semester. Faculty is authorized to provide only the accommodations requested by the Disability Support Services Office.
For questions, please contact Donna Price at 713.718.5165 or Southwest ADA Counselor – Dr. Becky Hauri –
713.718.7910. To visit the ADA Web site, please visit www.hccs.edu then click Future students, scroll down the page and
click on the words Disability Information.
Academic Honesty
Students are responsible for conducting themselves with honor and integrity in fulfilling course requirements. Disciplinary
proceedings may be initiated by the college system against a student accused of scholastic dishonesty. Penalties can include
a grade of "0" or "F" on the particular assignment, failure in the course, academic probation, or even dismissal from the
college. Scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion.
HCC Policy Statement – Sexual Harassment
It is a violation of HCCS policy for an employee, agent, or student of the college to engage in sexual harassment as
defined in the EEOC guidelines (EEO/AA Compliance Handbook 47).
HCC Policy Statement – Safe And Secure Learning Environment
It is the policy of HCC to provide a safe and secure environment within which learning can take place effectively.
Accordingly, disruptive, threatening, or violent behavior in the classroom will not be tolerated. Disruptive, threatening, or
violent individuals will be asked to leave the classroom for that day. Failure to comply with this request may lead to
removal and/or arrest by the police. This is in addition to any college disciplinary action to which the individual might be
liable.
Student Assessment:
Exams, Grading, and Make-up Policy
All examinations will be based upon a 100% score. Four examinations will be given during the course of the semester.
The average of these exams will comprise 80% of the final grade. A comprehensive Departmental Exit Exam, to assess
your achievement in the course of instruction, will be given at the scheduled Final Exam date and will account for the
remaining 20% of your final grade. The lecture exams are multiple choice, 50 questions each, and will be scored by
scantron. You must bring your own scantron answer card and a No.2 lead pencil with clean eraser to scheduled exams.
There is no grading curve! However, there will be additional bonus questions on the lecture exams that could enhance
your test score by 10 points, and ultimately nearly a letter grade for the semester. Be sure to arrive early for all scheduled
exams as these have time limits. Entering and exiting lecture room is not permitted once exams have begun.
In general, there are no lecture make-up examinations. In some extreme instances (e.g., medically excused absence, death
in immediate family) a make-up exam will be administered and may take either oral or written format. All make-up
examinations will have a maximum score of 90% (reduced by 10%) regardless of whether there was a valid reason for
missing the scheduled examination. There are no special assignments for extra grade points.
This course will adhere to the grading scale as set forth by the College and converts to HISD grading policy, i.e.
HCC Grading
HISD Grading
A Excellent
90-100
A for HISD is the same.
B Good
80-89
B for HISD is the same.
C Average
70-79
C is 75-79
D Poor, passing 60-69
D is 70-74
F Failing
below 60
F is 69 and below
Example: a 73 in a HCC class is a C; however a 73 is D for HISD.
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*Dates provided are an estimation and may be adjusted. Please refer to dates given by your professor.
GENERAL COURSE SCHEDULE
Lectures and Exams
Week 1- 8/24-8/28
Chap. 0, Scientific Method and Chap. 1, Introduction: Biology Today
Week 2- 8/31-9/4
Chap. 2, Essential Chemistry for Biology
Week 3- 9/7-9/11
Chap. 3, The Molecules of Life (9/7-Labor day)
Week 4- 9/14-9/18
Exam I (Chaps 0-3): Chap. 4. A Tour of the Cell
Week 5- 9/21-9/25
Chap. 4. A Tour of the Cell (9/23-Fall holiday)
Week 6- 9/28-10/2
Chap. 5. The Working Cell
Week 7- 10/5-10/9
Chap. 6. Cellular Respiration: Obtaining Energy from Food
Week 8- 10/12-10/16
Exam II (Chaps 4-6): Chap. 6. Cellular Respiration: Obtaining Energy from Food
Week 9- 10/19-10/23
Chap. 7. Photosynthesis: Using Light to make Food
Week 10- 10/26-10/30
Chap. 8. Cellular Reproduction: Cells from Cells
Week 11- 11/2-11/6
Chap. 8. Cellular Reproduction: Cells from Cells and Chap. 10. The Structure and Function of DNA
Week 12- 11/9-11/13
Exam III (Chaps 7-8, 10): Chap. 10. The Structure and Function of DNA
Week 13- 11/16-11/20
Chap. 9, Patterns of Inheritance
Week 14- 11/23-11/27 Chap. 11. How Genes are Controlled (11/25-11/27 Thanksgiving break)
Week 15- 11/30-12/4
Chap. 12. DNA Technology
Week 16- 12/7-12/11
-FINAL EXAM (comprehensive)-
*Instructor reserves the right to revise this schedule should it become necessary.
Please see the next page for performance rubric!
5
PERFORMANCE FACTORS
Student will be
able to:
1. Describe
scientific
terminology
and learn
accurate use
of them in
living
organisms
F
Unable to
demonstrate
knowledge of
scientific
terminology
and its use in
living
organisms.
2. Define
principles of
living
organisms
including
physical and
chemical
properties of
life.
Unable to
demonstrate
knowledge of
principles of
living
organisms
including
physical and
chemical
properties of
life.
3. Understand
•Unable to
explain function
at the level of
biological
macromolecule
and cell.
•Unable to
understand
energy
transformations
and the metabolic
reactions
associated with
cellular activities.
function at the
level of
molecules and
cells, to include
biological
macromolecules
, cellular
organization,
communication,
and cell
division.
Understand
energy
transformations
and the
metabolic
reactions
associated with
cellular
activities, such
as the processes
of glycolysis,
fermentation,
cellular
respiration, and
photosynthesis.
D
C
B
A
Occasionally
able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
scientific
terminology,
unable to
demonstrate its
use in living
organisms.
Occasionally
able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
principles of
living
organisms,
unable to
demonstrate
physical and
chemical
properties of
life.
Occasionally
able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
scientific
terminology,
and its partial
use in living
organisms.
Consistently
able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
scientific
terminology,
and its partial
use in living
organisms.
Consistently able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
scientific terminology,
and its complete use in
living organisms.
Occasionally
able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
principles of
living
organisms and
physical and
chemical
properties of
life.
Consistently
able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
principles of
living
organisms and
partial
knowledge of
physical and
chemical
properties of
life.
Consistently able to
demonstrate
knowledge of
principles of living
organisms and
complete knowledge
of physical and
chemical properties of
life.
•Able to explain
function at the
level of biological
macromolecule,
•Able to explain
the cellular
organization , but
not function
•Unable to
explain cell
division.
•Unable to
explain energy
transformations
•Unable to
explain the
metabolic
reactions
associated with
cellular activities.
•Able to explain
function at the
level of biological
macromolecule,
•Able to explain
the cellular
organization and
function of cell
components
•Able to explain
cell division.
•Unable to
explain energy
transformations
•Unable to
explain the
metabolic
reactions
associated with
cellular activities.
•Able to explain
the function at the
level of molecules
and cells, to
include biological
macromolecules,
cellular
organization,
communication,
and cell division.
•Able to explain
energy
transformations.
•Unable to
explain the
metabolic
reactions
associated with
cellular activities,
such as the
processes of
glycolysis,
fermentation,
cellular
respiration, and
photosynthesis.
•Able to explain the
function at the level of
molecules and cells, to
include biological
macromolecules, cellular
organization,
communication, and cell
division.
•Able to explain and
apply the knowledge of
energy transformations
•Able to explain the
metabolic reactions
associated with cellular
activities, such as the
processes of glycolysis,
fermentation, cellular
respiration, and
photosynthesis.
6
4. Explain the
molecular
sequence of
events involved
in the flow and
expression of
genetic
information in
prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells,
with special
emphasis on the
understanding
of DNA
replication,
RNA
transcription,
protein
biosynthesis and
mutation.
5. Understand
basic
knowledge of
Mendelian
genetics,
perform and
interpret genetic
problems.
Describe
advances made
in the
understanding
of genes and
chromosomes
since Mendel.
6.
Apply
scientific
method of
asking a
question,
developing and
testing
hypothesis by
experiments,
collecting and
writing
organized
reports.
Develop critical
thinking and
distinguish
theory from a
hypothesis.
Unable to explain
the molecular
sequence of
events involved in
the flow and
expression of
genetic
information in
prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells,
with special
emphasis on the
understanding of
DNA replication,
RNA
transcription,
protein
biosynthesis and
mutation.
•Able to explain
the molecular
sequence of
events involved in
the flow and
expression of
genetic
information in
prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells
•Able to explain
the process of
DNA replication
•Unable to
explain RNA
transcription,
protein
biosynthesis and
mutation.
•Able to explain
the molecular
sequence of
events involved in
the flow and
expression of
genetic
information in
prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells
•Able to explain
the process of
DNA replication
and RNA
transcription.
•Unable to
demonstrate
protein
biosynthesis and
mutation.
•Unable to
demonstrate basic
knowledge of
Mendelian
genetics,
•Unable to
perform and
interpret genetic
problems.
•Unable to
describe advances
made in the
understanding of
genes and
chromosomes
since Mendel.
Consistently
cannot
differentiate
between
appropriate and
inappropriate
experimental
design, in practice
or by scenario.
•Able to
demonstrate basic
knowledge of
Mendelian
genetics,
•Unable to
perform and
interpret genetic
problems.
•Unable to
describe advances
made in the
understanding of
genes and
chromosomes
since Mendel.
Occasionally
differentiates
between
appropriate and
inappropriate
experimental
design, but needs
direction to
proceed to next
step.
•Able to
demonstrate basic
knowledge of
Mendelian
genetics,
•Less than 50%
proficiency in
performing and
interpretation of
genetic problems.
•Able to describe
advances made in
the understanding
of genes and
chromosomes
since Mendel.
Consistently
differentiates
between
appropriate and
inappropriate
experimental
design, but needs
direction to
proceed to next
step.
•Able to explain
the molecular
sequence of
events involved in
the flow and
expression of
genetic
information in
prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells
•Able to explain
the process of
DNA replication
and RNA
transcription
•Able to
demonstrate
partial knowledge
of protein
biosynthesis and
mutation.
•Consistently
demonstrates
knowledge of
Mendelian
genetics,
80% proficiency
in performing and
interpretation of
genetic problems.
•Able to describe
advances made in
the understanding
of genes and
chromosomes
since Mendel.
•Consistently able to
explain the molecular
sequence of events
involved in the flow and
expression of genetic
information in prokaryotic
and eukaryotic cells
•Able to explain the
process of DNA
replication and RNA
transcription, protein
biosynthesis and
mutation.
•Consistently
differentiates
between
appropriate and
inappropriate
experimental
design. •Attempts
to perform some
appropriate
corrective action
or explain some
appropriate
action; needs
some assistance
from instructor.
•Consistently
differentiates between
appropriate and
inappropriate
experimental design.
Takes appropriate steps or
explains appropriate steps
independently and
correctly.
•Is able to distinguish
theory from hypothesis on
their own.
•Consistently
demonstrates knowledge
of Mendelian genetics,
100% proficiency in
performing and
interpretation of genetic
problems.
•Able to describe
advances made in the
understanding of genes
and chromosomes since
Mendel.
7