Biology 110.82 - Introductory Biology – Fall 2011COURSE SYLLABUS ~ HILLSDALE LETARTE CENTER BIOLOGY 110.82 - INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY – FALL 2011 TUESDAY 10:30AM – 12:30 PM & 1:00 - 2:27 PM THURSDAY 1:00- 2:27 PM Course Description: Students will investigate the nature of science and critically analyze scientific data and current biological issues. Basic biological concepts including cell structure and function, molecular biology, biotechnology, nutrient cycles, and evolution are presented in the context of current issues. This course is designed for non-science majors. This course includes a laboratory component. Prerequisites: ENG 085 or 090, and MTH 098 Students successfully completing this course should be able to: - Describe the nature of science as a self-correcting process. - Identify cell structures and describe their functions. - Explain the origin of cancer cells and factors affecting their growth. - Understand the basic structure and function of DNA. - Describe basic biotechnology procedures and applications - Understand the mechanisms of evolutionary change and how evolution differs from non-scientific explanations. - Understand the factors affecting global warming and other human impacts on the environment Instructor: Krista Damery Office: xxx Building Secretary Phone: 517-437-3343 e-mail: [email protected] Office Hours: by appointment Required Materials: - Biology: Dimensions of Life, Presson & Jenner, ISBN 978-0-07-295267-4 - Biology 110 Course Pack – Damery – available at bookstore - Biology 110 Lab Manual – available at bookstore - Calculator: especially helpful in lab; cell phones or other electronics will not be allowed for use during exams or quizzes Classroom Management: We are all here to learn. Disruptive behaviors, such as side conversations, using cell phones or other devices during class, or being disrespectful of others, will result in those responsible being asked to leave for the remainder of the period and losing credit for any work that is missed. In support of the learning environment I expect that you will silence your cell phones and refrain from texting during class time. If there are situations that I may not be aware of, please let me know so the situation may be addressed. Working and studying together is strongly encouraged, as this is the way you will get the most out of the course. (This does NOT mean trading answers to things you have not yet attempted to complete individually! See academic honesty policy) It is advisable that you not wear sandals to class. You will not be allowed to participate in lab if you are wearing open-toed shoes. JetNet Resources: Reliable computer access is necessary for this course, as some course materials can be accessed only through the JetNet course management system. I will post announcements and grades, as well as many other course materials like discussion papers through this system. Simply type in the URL http://classes.jccmi.edu or access JetNet through the JCC web page by choosing "Online classes”Instructor’s Statement: My goal is to help expand your understanding the realm of Biology and its associated thought processes. I care (deeply) about your learning, and have the utmost understanding that problems may arise. While every outcome may not be as you would like, I will do my best to be fair and to help you as much as I can. Ultimately, YOU must take responsibility for YOUR learning. If you have concerns or problems, please feel free to talk to me through any method you are comfortable (face to face, e-mail, handwritten note, etc.) The main focus of this course is improving scientific literacy. The course material provides the biological foundation of concepts and terms to understand current topics. Although this is an introductory course, do not think that makes it an easy or blow-off course. Do not think introductory should mean “easy”, introductory simply means that it does not require background knowledge in Biology. You will be required to do a fair amount of reading, writing, and thinking. This will require you to put in time studying and working on class materials. By the end of this course you should develop a lifelong skill to be able to critically consider and investigate scientific information. I hope to help you understand better how a multitude of biological concepts relate to you and can impact your life. I believe that this course is vastly improved by the involvement of students in class; this includes asking questions and contributing information relevant to current topics. A working knowledge of biological topics is becoming increasingly important to everyday life in our rapidly changing world. Careers involving biology are the fastest growing both in need and extended job security. Hopefully you will take some of this course with you for the rest of your life. So what will class be like? During the first 5-10 minutes of each class, any assigned work will be graded and so should be turned in on the instructor desk as soon as you arrive to class. You should also use this time to discuss the most important concepts of the section, most confusing concepts, and other topics with your colleagues/peers/group members. We will then have a class discussion of your concerns/revelations and continue on to additional new material. Hint: You will learn significantly more if YOU have questions to begin each class session with – otherwise the premise is that you already possess understanding of previous material. Exams and Grading: There will be 5-6 regular exams given in lecture which will make up 25% of your final grade. The lecture portion of the course accounts for 25% of the final grade, as does the lab portion. • Lecture - JetNet-quizzes and any in-class or take- home assignments • Lab – lab quizzes, lab packet, and participation, discussion papers The final exam comprises the remaining 25 % of your grade. • This exam is cumulative, will be given on the last day of class. • Exams are designed to fit within one hour – students arriving late will NOT be given extra time, unless predetermined by the instructor. If you anticipate taking more than an hour, please see me ahead of time about starting exams early, arrangements will be made if possible. Exam formats may include: multiple choice, matching, fill-in, short answer,