Course Overview: General Biology (BIO-111)

Introduction

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of biological science, covering topics from the molecular basis of life to ecology and evolution. It is designed for non-biology majors and includes both lecture and laboratory components to reinforce key concepts through hands-on experience.

Course Structure and Meeting Information

• Lecture: Online

• Lab: Weekly, Monday & Wednesday, 3:30 PM – 5:10 PM, Room C2218

• Credits: 4.000

• Instructor: Jenilee Johnson

• Contact: jjohnson1461@kish.edu (Office hours by appointment)

Textbooks and Course Materials

• Campbell's Biology 10th Edition (E-Book) – Required digital access via D2L

• BIO 105/BIO 111 Lab Manual – Kishwaukee College, Stipes Publishing

• Additional supplies: Stand-alone calculator, colored pencils for lab drawings

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

Lecture Portion

• Describe characteristics common to all living organisms

• Apply the scientific method to real-world examples

• Identify key inorganic and organic molecules in biological systems

• Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

• Contrast plant and animal cell structures and functions

• Explain respiration and photosynthesis

• Describe asexual and sexual reproduction at the cellular level

• Understand fertilization and embryonic development in plants and animals

• Solve genetic inheritance problems

• Explain DNA replication and protein synthesis

• Discuss genetic engineering and stem cell research

• Explain natural selection and adaptation

• Solve Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium problems

• Describe ecological relationships and human impacts on ecosystems

Laboratory Portion

• Proper use of compound microscopes

• Accurate laboratory measurements and metric conversions

• Identification of cellular structures in plant and animal cells

• Recognition of mitosis phases and stages of animal development

• Understanding plant reproductive structures and development

• Genetic analysis using phenotypic ratios

• Analysis of biotic and abiotic factors in ecosystems

Topics Covered

Lecture Topics

• Introduction to Life

• Scientific Method

• Basic Chemistry of Life

• Organic Chemistry of Life

• Cell Membrane Structure & Function

• Cell Organelle Structure & Function

• Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration

• Cell Reproduction

• Animal and Plant Reproduction & Development

• Genetics and Molecular Genetics

• Gene Regulation and Biotechnology

• Evolution

• The Biosphere, Population, Community & Ecosystem Ecology

• Conservation Biology

Laboratory Topics

• Compound Light Microscope

• Scientific Method

• Measurement & Metric System

• Protein Function Factors

• Photosynthesis

• Cell Structure & Function

• Animal and Plant Reproduction & Development

• Genetics, DNA Replication & Protein Synthesis

• Evolution and Diversity of Life

• Ecology

Course Schedule (Tentative)

Grading and Assessment

• Chapter Quizzes: 16 quizzes (5 points each), 3 attempts per quiz, highest score counts

• Unit Exams: 5 exams (50–70 points each), proctored, covers multiple chapters

• Lab Exercises: 14 exercises (10 points each), hands-on, graded for correctness

• Lab Exams: Midterm and Final (100 points each), practical and written response

Course Policies

• Attendance: Required for labs; regular engagement for online lectures

• Academic Integrity: Strictly enforced; no unauthorized use of AI or electronic devices during exams

• Make-up Policy: Limited make-up opportunities for exams and labs, only with valid documentation

• Technology: Reliable internet and computer required; D2L is the main platform

• Safety: Adherence to lab safety protocols is mandatory

Support and Resources

• Disability Services: Accommodations available for documented needs

• Online Success Support: Tips and technical help for online learning

• Career Services: Job search, resume, and interview support via Handshake

• Testing Services: By appointment for proctored exams

Important Notes

• All course content, assignments, and grades are managed through D2L

• Honorlock proctoring is required for all unit exams

• Students are responsible for keeping up with deadlines and course announcements