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 tissuesorgans 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.)