PALs Sample Biology Course Matrix with LEAP* Principles of Excellence.
Example of how a content rich majors course can fit in.
Leap Principles of
Excellence
Biology Program Goal
Biology Course Goals
BIOL1107
Aim High—and Make
Excellence Inclusive
Make the Essential
Learning Outcomes a
Framework for the Entire
Educational Experience,
Connecting School,
College, Work, and Life
Effectively and clearly
communicate scientific
information in written and
oral form.
Critically assess and
utilize scientific
information.
Give Students a
Compass
Focus Each Student’s
Plan of Study on
Achieving the Essential
Learning Outcomes—
and Assess Progress
Know the structures and
functions of biomolecules
DNA, proteins, lipids,
carbohydrates.
Know the structures and
functions of cells.
Understand the
structure-function
relationships at all levels
of organization of living
organisms molecules 
cells  tissuesorgans
organ systems
organisms
populations
ecosystems.
Use library and internet
resources to gather,
organize, and
understand scientific
information.
Describe the structure,
function, and metabolism
of macromolecules.
Differentiate cell
structure and function.
Explain the molecular
basis of inheritance.
Describe the molecular
mechanisms that
regulate gene expression
from DNA to RNA to
protein.
Impact of cigarette toxins
on biological systems.
Critically assess and
utilize scientific
information.
Research information for
the presentations; collate
and frame science
information for layperson
understanding.
Evaluate sources to
determine reliability and
veracity.
Teach the Arts of
Inquiry and Innovation
Immerse All Students in
Analysis, Discovery,
Problem Solving, and
Communication,
Beginning in School and
Advancing in College
Engage the Big
Questions
Teach through the
Curriculum to FarReaching Issues—
Contemporary and
Enduring—
in Science and Society,
Cultures and Values,
Global Changing
Economy,
Collect, present, and
analyze scientific data
gathered in the
laboratory.
Content Goals above
ALL apply to Society
and Ethics
Understand basic
chemistry and math and
apply them to a study of
the life sciences.
Assessments:
PALS projects within
the course
Present to the College
and general public on
impact of Litter.
Peer-teach students
(English/Psychology)
about the scientific
impact of litter.
Design monitoring
surveys.
Analyze preliminary data
and present to other
classes.
and Human Dignity and
Freedom
Connect Knowledge
with Choices and
Action
Prepare Students for
Citizenship and Work
through Engaged and
Guided Learning on
“Real-World” Problems
Understand and gain an
appreciation for the
applications of life
sciences in Society.
Foster Civic,
Intercultural, and
Ethical Learning
Emphasize Personal and
Social Responsibility, in
Every Field of Study
Understand and gain an
appreciation for the
applications of life
sciences in Society.
Relevant to ecological
and biological issues
raised.
Assess Students’
Ability to Apply
Learning to Complex
Problems
Use Assessment to
Deepen Learning and to
Establish a Culture of
Shared Purpose and
Continuous Improvement
Understand the
organization, diversity
and interdependence of
living organisms.
Relevant to ecological
issues raised.
*Liberal Education
Principles of Excellence
Apply Biological
knowledge to real world
problems.
Determine the impact of
litter on the ecosystem
locally and globally.
and America's Promise (LEAP)
“The LEAP campaign is organized around a robust set of "Essential Learning Outcomes"
(PDF) -- all of which are best developed by a contemporary liberal education. Described in
College Learning for the New Global Century (PDF), these essential learning outcomes
and a set of "Principles of Excellence" (PDF) provide a new framework to guide students'
cumulative progress through college.” (Please see links for further information.)