Course Overview

Biology 3 at LA Mission College is a comprehensive introductory course covering the foundational principles of modern and classical biological sciences. The course integrates lectures, laboratory exercises, discussions, and written assignments to provide students with a holistic understanding of biology, emphasizing the relationship between structure and function from the molecular to the ecosystem level.

Course Structure and Materials

• Lecture: Online/Asynchronous (Canvas lecture videos)

• Lab: In-person, Monday or Wednesday evenings

• Required Texts: Concepts of Biology (Molnar and Gair, free textbook), Biology 3 Lab Manual 6th Edition

• Prerequisite: None

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

• Analyze scientific experiments and identify major components.

• Graph, interpret, and analyze biological data.

• Solve genetic problems to determine genotypic and phenotypic probabilities.

• Apply gene expression principles to DNA sequences to determine protein products.

Course Objectives

• Master the language and concepts of biology for academic and professional success.

• Develop as a science student through integrated learning approaches.

• Collaborate effectively in laboratory teams.

• Become a critical thinker regarding advances in life sciences and their societal impacts.

Major Topics and Weekly Breakdown

The course covers the following major topics, aligning with standard introductory biology curricula:

• Introduction & Scientific Method

• Basic Chemical Concepts & Chemistry of Life

• Cell Structure and Function

• Energy, Enzymes, and Cell Transport

• DNA, Protein Synthesis, and Biotechnology

• Mitosis and Meiosis

• Genetics (Mendelian and Problem Solving)

• Evolution, Speciation, and Extinction

• Ecology and Population Dynamics

• Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis

• Animal Systems: Reproductive, Circulatory, Respiratory, Digestive, Endocrine

Laboratory Topics

• Scientific Method

• Metric System

• Molecules and pH

• Macromolecules

• Microscopy

• DNA & Gene Expression

• Mitosis & Meiosis

• Genetics/Genetic Inheritance

• Natural Selection

• Plant Kingdom

• Cardio Health & Fermentation (Project-Based Learning)

• Photosynthesis

Assessment and Grading

• Scientific Paper Summary: 50 points

• Scientist Contribution Essay: 20 points

• 4 Unit Exams: 500 points

• Lab Work (Reports, Quizzes, Practical): 330 points

• Total: 900 points

Grading Scale:

Key Policies

• Attendance: Required for labs; students are responsible for withdrawals.

• Academic Integrity: Cheating or plagiarism results in a zero and formal documentation. Use of AI-generated content is prohibited.

• Make-up Policy: No make-up exams or quizzes; missed assessments receive zero points.

• Accommodations: Students with disabilities should contact DSPS for support.

Support Resources

• STEM Office: Free tutoring and academic counseling

• Learning Resource Center: Tutoring for science students

• Admissions, Bookstore, Counseling, DSPS, EOPS: Various student support services

Summary Table: Major Lecture and Lab Topics

Additional Info

• This syllabus aligns with standard introductory biology topics, including cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and physiology, as outlined in the provided chapter list.

• Students are expected to engage with both lecture and laboratory components for a comprehensive understanding of biological principles.