Course Overview

This course, BIOL-15 Biosciences at Yuba College, provides an introduction to the unifying principles of biology. It covers foundational topics such as the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, energy transformation, genetics, evolution, and organismal structure. The course is designed to fulfill general education requirements and includes both lecture and laboratory components.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Mitotic Cell Division: Identify the unifying characteristics of mitotic cell division in living cells.

• Protein Synthesis: Identify and describe the process of protein synthesis in cells.

• Biomacromolecules: Compare and contrast the structure and function of major types of biomacromolecules.

Course Objectives

• Describe and compare the fundamental structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

• Identify, describe, and compare essential metabolic activities of the cell relating to energy transformation and molecular synthesis.

• Recognize and use scientific terminology.

• Identify, describe, and compare the function of tissues and organs common to animals.

• Describe and apply principles relating to genetic inheritance.

• Identify equipment used in laboratory procedures.

• Describe the scientific method and the development of biology as a science.

• Describe asexual reproduction and its role in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

• Describe the cell cycle and fundamentals of cell cycle regulation, including cancer development.

• Describe sexual reproduction and compare spermatogenesis and oogenesis, genetic variety, and chromosome alterations.

• Identify, describe, and compare the fundamental elements and molecules of living organisms, including molecular bonding and chemical reactions.

• Describe the process of protein synthesis and fundamentals of gene regulation.

• Describe natural selection as a mechanism of evolution.

• Describe genetic variation by mutation and sexual reproduction as mechanisms for evolution.

Course Materials

• Textbook: Taylor, M., Simon, E.J., Dickey, J., & Hogan, K. Modified Mastering Biology for Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections (10th Edition), Pearson.

• Online Platform: Pearson's Mastering Biology (registration instructions provided in class).

• Technology: Reliable computer with internet and printer access required. Chromebooks/laptops and other devices available for loan from the library.

• Lab Materials: Lab handouts (posted on Canvas), pens/pencils, closed-toed shoes, hair ties (if needed), long pants/skirt, long-sleeved shirt/lab coat.

Grading Structure

Major Topics and Tentative Schedule

Key Course Policies

• Attendance: Laboratory exercises cannot be made up outside scheduled periods. Excessive absences may result in being dropped from the course.

• Late Work: Lab reports accepted up to one week late (one letter grade deduction). Online assignments accepted up to two days late (10% per day, max 20% deduction). No late quizzes/exams without prior authorization.

• Academic Integrity: Academic dishonesty includes copying, unauthorized resource use, and plagiarism. Penalties range from assignment failure to course failure and referral to administration.

• AI Policy: Use of AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Grammarly) for graded assignments is prohibited. Students must document their writing process if flagged for AI use.

• Professional Conduct: Respectful and collaborative behavior is expected in all class and lab activities.

Support Services

• Counseling Center and Student Services for academic and personal support.

• Disabled Students Programs and Services (DSPS): For accommodations and support.

• College Success Center (Tutoring): For academic assistance.

• Veterans Services and EOP&S for eligible students.

Major Biological Topics Covered

• Biology as a Science: Scientific method, experimental design, and the diversity of life.

• Chemical Basis of Life: Atoms, molecules, chemical bonds, and reactions essential for life.

• Biological Macromolecules: Structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

• Cell Structure and Function: Prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells, organelles, and cellular processes.

• Cellular Transport: Mechanisms of moving substances across cell membranes.

• Energy and Metabolism: Enzymes, catabolism, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration.

• Cell Cycle and Division: Mitosis, meiosis, regulation, and cancer.

• Genetics and Inheritance: Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance, mutations, and genetic disorders.

• DNA and Gene Expression: Structure, replication, transcription, translation, and gene regulation.

• Biotechnology: DNA technology, genomics, and applications.

• Evolution: Mechanisms, evidence, and evolutionary history.

• Animal Structure and Function: Tissues, organ systems (respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, urinary, reproductive, nervous).

Important Dates

• Drop deadline (no ‘W’): 06/17/2026

• Drop deadline (with ‘W’): 07/17/2026

• Juneteenth (no class): 06/18/2026

• Independence Day (no class): 07/02/2026

• Final Exam: 07/30/2026

Summary Table: Major Course Topics and Corresponding Textbook Chapters

Additional Info

• This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, expectations, and major biological concepts covered. Students are encouraged to consult the syllabus regularly and reach out to the instructor or support services as needed.