Course Overview

Introduction to General Biology I

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of biology, including evolution, systematics, ecology, diversity, plant growth and development, and animal function. It is designed for College of Sciences and College of Education majors and covers foundational topics necessary for advanced study in biological sciences.

• Course Code: BIO204

• Textbook: Campbell Biology 12th ed. w/ Mastering Biology

• Instructor: Dr. Rachel Wallace Closio

• Format: Asynchronous online

Prerequisites and Credit

Eligibility and Enrollment

Students must have completed or be enrolled in MATH 1125 or a higher-level math course. This course is intended for College of Sciences and College of Education majors. Enrollment may be limited without departmental consent.

• Credit: May not be earned for both BIOS-1073 and BIOS-1603.

Student Learning Outcomes

Core Competencies

Upon completion, students will demonstrate scientific literacy, field-specific literacy, and an understanding of the experimental approaches used to investigate biological diversity.

• Population Genetics: Understanding genetic variation and its role in evolution.

• Processes of Evolution and Speciation: Mechanisms driving evolutionary change and the formation of new species.

• Phylogenetic Relationships: Methods for reconstructing evolutionary histories.

• Structure-Function Relationships: Connections between anatomy and physiology in plants and animals.

Major Topics and Weekly Schedule

Lecture Topics and Readings

The following table outlines the major topics, associated textbook chapters, and assignments for each week.

Assessment and Grading

Grading Breakdown

Grades are determined by performance on exams, quizzes, homework, and participation. The following table summarizes the grading components:

Grading Scale:

• A = 90-100%

• B = 80-89%

• C = 70-79%

• D = 60-69%

• F = below 59%

Key Academic Policies

Attendance and Participation

Attendance is mandatory for all 1000 and 2000 level courses. Participation is required for a higher grade and to ensure preparedness for exams.

Academic Integrity

Cheating or plagiarism will result in a zero for the assignment and may lead to further disciplinary action. Refer to the Academic Dishonesty Policy for details.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities should contact the Office of Disability Services for accommodations. Documentation is required for extended time or other adjustments.

Best Practices for Success

Study Tips

• Check UNO email and Canvas regularly.

• Complete all assignments by Monday at midnight.

• Use lecture PowerPoints and textbook chapters for guided study.

• Set aside regular study time each week.

• Seek help early if struggling; utilize tutoring and office hours.

• Use recommended online resources for biology:

  • Human Science Biology Main Page

  • Khan Academy Biology

Major Biological Concepts Covered

Population Genetics

Population genetics studies the distribution and changes of allele frequencies under the influence of evolutionary processes. Key concepts include genetic drift, gene flow, mutation, and natural selection.

• Hardy-Weinberg Principle: Describes genetic equilibrium in a population.

• Equation:

Where p and q are the frequencies of two alleles in a population.

Evolution and Speciation

Evolution is the process by which populations change over time through mechanisms such as natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow. Speciation is the formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

• Natural Selection: Differential survival and reproduction of individuals due to differences in phenotype.

• Types of Speciation: Allopatric, sympatric, peripatric, and parapatric.

Phylogenetics

Phylogenetics is the study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities, often using tree diagrams called phylogenies.

• Cladistics: Classification based on common ancestry.

• Phylogenetic Trees: Visual representations of evolutionary relationships.

Structure-Function Relationships

Understanding how the structure of biological molecules, cells, and organisms relates to their function is a central theme in biology. This includes the anatomy and physiology of plants and animals.

• Plant Physiology: Photosynthesis, transpiration, and nutrient transport.

• Animal Physiology: Circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems.

Ecology

Ecology is the study of interactions among organisms and their environment, including population, community, and ecosystem dynamics.

• Population Ecology: Study of populations in relation to environment.

• Community Ecology: Interactions between species in a community.

• Ecosystem Ecology: Energy flow and nutrient cycling.

Additional Info

• Weekly quizzes and homework assignments reinforce key concepts.

• Participation in Packback discussions is required for full credit.

• Final exam is mandatory and comprehensive.