Molecular Biology Syllabus -AB
MANUAL ARTS HIGH SCHOOL Email: aba9798@lausd.net
Overview
Phone # 323-846-7300 ext 3220
Welcome to Molecular Biology A & B, a two semester class deals with nucleic acids and proteins and how these
molecules interact within the cell to promote proper growth, division, and development. It is a large and everchanging discipline. This course will emphasize the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication, repair,
transcription, protein synthesis, and gene regulation in different organisms. We will study the techniques and
experiments used to discern these mechanisms, often referring to the original scientific literature. In addition, we
will take an in-depth look at some rapidly evolving fields, including chromatin structure and function, genome
editing techniques, RNA polymerase dynamics, and regulation of gene expression by different types of RNAs.
Course Description:
The major objective of the course is to provide students with a comprehensive overview to
understand the basic concepts in molecular biology and biochemistry. These concepts include structure
and diversity of cells, cellular function. Gene regulation and gene expression. Protein specificity and
structure, cell signaling cascades, cell cycle and cancer, bioenergetics, and cellular communication. The
course is laboratory-based and requires extensive student participation in laboratory experimentation to
enhance independent and critical-thinking. The molecular biology course is a new course, reinforces the
biological sciences content standards and does beyond the scope of the two required courses of physical
science and life science. It meets the UC entrance requirements for laboratory Sciences. It suffices “g”
requirement for A-G requirement.
GOAL:
By the end of this semester, students will be able to:
1. Understand how molecular machines are constructed and regulated so that they can accurately copy, repair, and interpret genomic
information.
2. Appreciate that molecular biology is a dynamic and ever-changing experimental science.
3. Become comfortable with reading and critiquing primary research papers.
OBJECTIVES : Students will be able t‹›
1. explain the principles of protein anal nucleic acid structure, the process of assembly of biological macromolecules and their function
in the cell (California Content Standards Biology I b, Chemistry 10a- c, e).
2. discuss DNA coding of proteins and describe control mechanisms regulating DNA replication, transcription and translation
(California Content Standards Biology l d, 4a, b. 5a).
3. demonstrate how modern technology of molecular biology is applied to clone, sequence DNA, identify genes, and gene therapy
(California Content Standards 5c-e).
4. describe the primary sequence of proteins as the determinant of conformation and function using specialized proteins that have dual
catalytic and structural roles as examples (California Content Standards Biology 4d -f, Chemistry 8a-d, 9h).
5. describe metabolic pathways of bioenergetics that generate and maintain a constant supply of ATP to meet the energy requirements
of cellular activities (California Content Standards Biology 1g,’ Chemistry 7a, b, f).
6, describe the significance of signal transduction in cell metabolism, protein sorting and transport across cell membranes, cell to cell
communication, cell transformation and apoptosis (California Content Standards Biology 1a, c; Chemistry 11d, e).
7. describe basic membrane properties, synapses, structure of neurons and nervous systems; ionic mechanisms responsible for
generating membrane potentials, action potentials and synaptic potentials, information transduction, receptor proteins (California
Content Standards Biology9b-e, C h e m i s t r y 5d,f,g)
8. Demonstrate and describe the functions of specific tissues such as epithelial. blood, and connective tissue and extracellular matrix
proteins associated with it, their assembly into supramolecular structures and their interactions with cells and influence on tissue formation
(California Content Standards Biology la, b, h, 9a,10a,b; Chemistry 6a, c, d,f).
STANDARD: Content knowledge and skills gained during this course will support student achievement of the science standards.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
2. Describe, analyze, and predict the behavior of a physical system with the aid of mathematical models.
3. Describe, analyze, and predict chemical reactions, the biochemical basis of organic life, and the impact of chemicals on the
environment, using knowledge of the periodic table and mathematics w h e r e applicable.
Molecular Biology Syllabus -AB
4. Analyze and explain examples of biochemical processes that arc the basis of life, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and genetic
inheritance.
5. Engage in effective inquiry into scientific problems by asking original questions, evaluating evidence, and drawing reasonable
conclusions based on this evidence.
6. Examine and explain relationships among different scientific phenomena using experimental e v i d e n c e , logical argument,
graphs, mathematical equations, and other resources.
7. Design and conduct an investigation based on an original question. Follow appropriate safety and ethical guidelines: use findings to
revise ideas and assumptions and to design future investigations.
8. Use technology', scientific instruments, and equipment to collect, store, and analyze data; analyze how technological advances
contribute to scientific progress and lead to new problems and questions.
9. Evaluate proposed solutions to challenges facing the earth and its inhabitants through the application and integration of the main
concepts ‹›f the various branches o1’science.
TENTATIVE COURSE OUTLINE:
WEEKS
TOPICS
Membrane Structure and Function;
3
Lipids
Protein Structure and function;
3
Catalysis
DNA and the Nucleus; replication: 6
transcription of the genetic code; gene
expression and regulation
Protein Synthesis; vesicular transport; 4
protein sorting
Cell architecture; Connective tissue; 5
Microfilaments; cytoskeletal structure;
Microtubules; intermediate filaments
Cell Adhesion; cell environment;
3
physiological buffering
TOPICS
WEEKS
Extracellular matrix; cellular junction
2
2
Respiration; energy o1’respiration; bioenergetics
3
Control of cell cycle; cell-signaling Cascades ; cancer
3
Blood, enzymes, pH and buffers
4
TENTATIVE TOTAL WEEKS
38
Recommended Textbooks: “Molecular Biology of the Cell” by Bruce Alberts, O. Bray, J. Lewis, M .
Raff, K. Roberts, P. Walter. 4 th Edn. 2002.
This sheet outlines the requirements necessary for successful completion of the course. A successful
completion is a grade of CSS or better. (Required for High School Graduation)
IMPORTANT POLICIES: Graded work WILL be maintained in a composition book. Since Physiology is a
laboratory class, if the student behaves unsatisfactory, they will not be permitted to do labs till a parent
conference is had.
There is a zero tolerance on plagiarized/copied work.
Make up work policy: Excellent attendance is recommended to succeed in this course. If student has an
excused absence (#1 or #2) make up work will be given to the student in the form of an alternate
assignment. The work must be submitted in a timely manner (2 days after work is given). NO late work
accepted.
Late enrollees: Students who enroll late and do not come in with a grade are responsible for all work
previous to their enrollment. The students must ask and obtain the work from teacher and appropriate
time will be allotted for the completion of work. If student chooses not to ask and do the work, they will
only
get
half
credit,
50%
which
is
an
F
on
the
assignments.
Material needed:
Molecular Biology Syllabus -AB
1. Composition book (REQUIRED)
4. Ruler
2. Color pencils
5. Pens/Pencils
3. Glue sticks
6. Pencil Sharpener
There are glue sticks, color pencils, rulers, and pencil sharpener in class that is shared
equipment provided by the teacher.
Student Academic Responsibilities and Expectations.
Students will
1. be engaged by scientific questions.
2. explore ideas through direct, hands- on investigations that emphasize observation, solve
problems, formulate and test explanations, and create and discuss explanations for
what they have observed.
3. analyze and interpret data they have collected, synthesize their ideas, and build
concepts and new models with the support of their teacher.
4. apply their new understanding to new settings including real life situations to elaborate
on their new knowledge.
5. with their teacher, review and assess what they have learned, and evaluate their
understanding.
Student Behavior Expectations
Students will
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
come to class prepared (writing utensils/ paper, notebooks)
be in their seat and ready to start work before the tardy bell rings.
have the habits, and attitudes to ensure respect.
follow the school’s uniform policy. (no caps or beanies are to be used in class)
follow the district and school’s policy on the use of electronic devices in class. ( no
device use)
6. keep classes clean by discarding gum, food and beverages before entering class.
7. do any personal grooming before or after class.
GRADING CRITERIA: (Tentative) Grading Policies
Categories and Category Weight
Grades:
Classwork:
20%
90%-100% A
Homework:
10%
80%-89%  B
Projects:
15%
65%-79%  C
Tests/Quizzes: 25%
0%-64%  F
Midterm/Final: 15%
Labs:
15%
You earn your grades. Grade sheet will be given every other Tuesday and has to be turned in with
parent’s signature the next day. Or grade will be emailed and a parent signature in the notebook
acknowledges for looking at the grades on line and be accountable and knowledgeable about child’s grade.
WORK HABITS AND COOPERATION: According to Los Angeles Unified School District Criteria.
NOTE:
Molecular Biology Syllabus -AB
1. Plagiarism in any form is unethical and will not be tolerated. Consequences of plagiarism
may result in a failing grade for the course.
2. Any student in this course who has a disability that may prevent them from fully
demonstrating their abilities should contact the instructor personally as soon as possible to
discuss any accommodations needed to ensure maximal participation and facilitate equal
educational opportunity.
3. Students are responsible for conducting themselves with honor and integrity in
fulfilling course requirements. Disciplinary proceedings may be initiated by the
teacher against a student accused of scholastic dishonesty. Penalties include a grade
of "0" or "F" on the particular assignment. Scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not
limited to, cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion (conspiracy).
4. If you do not understand a topic please ask questions to improve your
comprehension. Make sure to ask questions during class or see me after class if you
are having problems with the class work. Don’t wait until last minute to get help!
During discussions remember to respect the opinions and questions of other
students.
ACADEMIC SUPPORT:
b. Use only your fingers on the
1. Tutoring available: Room#220
keys
Time: 7:00 am – 8:00 am. Or
c. Keep hands off the monitor
After school by appointment
unless it is a touchscreen.
Computer Usage in Classroom:
d. Keep your hands clean.
1. No food, drink, or magnets of any kind is
e. Do not touch anyone else’s
around the computers
computer.
2. Respect each other and the equipment.
7. If anything isn’t working properly
a. Gentle use of keyboard, mouse, and
let teacher know.
head phones.
8. Do not personalize computers!
3. Do not install or download any software
a. Do not change monitor
from the internet or any other source.
backgrounds or screen savers.
4. Listen to teacher during class and Do Not
b. Do not add, move, change or
distract or disturb others with “nondelete desktop icons.
work” activities!
http://www.bluevalleyk12.org/education
5. NO off-task internet usage!
/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=42321
a. Access the internet only with teacher
approval.
b. Computer usage is only for
educational approved/supplied sites
for information, image retrieval &
interactive learning.
6. Print with permission ONLY!
a. Make sure you only print 1 copy.
Molecular Biology Syllabus -AB
PARENT AND STUDENT STATEMENT: I have understood Ms. Alagala’s Molecular Biology Course Syllabus and
agree to all the information typed above. I and parent acknowledge the statement by signing below.
Student Name:____________________________________________ Period #_______
Email Address:____________________________________________
Student Signature: _______________________________ Date: ________
HOW PARENTS CAN HELP:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Provide your child space to study and make sure lie/she completes assignments on time.
Encourage your child to think about educational and career goals and discuss how specific coursework
will assist in achieving them.
Become involved in various educational activities and other programs to learn about the instructional
and curricular programs at school.
Recognize your child’s academic achievements and accomplishments in school activities.
Communicate with your child’s teachers, counselor, and other school staff on a regular basis. Attend
parent-teacher conferences and obtain provided information on school activities. Call Number (323)
846-7301
Contact Parent Resource Number at (800) 933-8133.
I have understood Ms. Alagala’s syllabus and expectation for my child to pass this class. It is my (parent or
guardian) responsibility to make space for the child to complete homework and contact teacher whenever
necessary.
Parent Name: _______________________________________________
Email Address:________________________________________________
Parent Signature:_____________________________________________Date:______________
Phone Number:
(1) _______________________________________2)________________________________
READ ALL ABOUT ME!
1. What name do you prefer that you be called? _______________________________________
2. What are your hobbies or things that you enjoy doing?
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. What is your favorite subject and why? ______________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
4. What is your least favorite subject and why?
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Molecular Biology Syllabus -AB
5. What are you nervous about for this school year?
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
6. What do you want your teacher to know about you?
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
7. Do you have difficulty doing homework? Explain.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
8. When you grow up, what would like to be?
_____________________________________________________________________________
9. What is your academic goal in this class?
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
10. How are you going to achieve this academic goal?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
11. What are your few favorite things!
a. Color: ___________________________ f. Animal: __________________________
b. Food: ____________________________ g. Book: ____________________________
c. Sport: ____________________________ h. Flower: ___________________________
d. Things to do in School: ___________________________________________________________
e.Things to do at home: _____________________________________________________________
12. Anything else, you want Ms. Alagala to know about you?
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
13. Draw and name something inside the box that represents you.
___________________________________________________