Course Overview

Introduction to General Microbiology

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of microbiology, focusing on the biology of bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes, and viruses. Students will explore microbial cell structure, function, genetics, metabolism, and the interactions between microbes and humans, including aspects of pathology and immunology. Laboratory components emphasize essential microbiological techniques such as culturing, microscopy, staining, and identification of microorganisms.

Course Structure and Requirements

Textbooks and Materials

• Required Textbook: Microbiology: An Introduction by Tortora, Funke, and Case (13th Edition, Pearson)

• Mastering Microbiology with Pearson eText Access Code (required for online assignments and resources)

• Labster Labs: Online laboratory simulations for practical microbiology skills

Course Learning Outcomes

• Differentiate microbial characteristics using appropriate terminology for bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes, and viruses

• Describe microbial cellular functions in energy, growth, and genetics

• Explain chemical and physical control methods of microbial growth

• Distinguish beneficial and harmful interactions between microbes and humans, including pathology and immunology

• Demonstrate proper lab safety and aseptic technique in microbiological procedures

• Apply scientific reasoning to interpret data from microbiological techniques

Grading and Evaluation

Grading Scale

The following grading scale is used to evaluate student performance:

Course Evaluation Components

• 4 Lecture Exams (100 points each): 400 points

• Cumulative Final Exam: 150 points

• Assignments/Participation: 150 points

• Quizzes/Attendance: 100 points

• 2 Lab Practicals (100 points each): 200 points

• Total: 1000 points

Course Schedule

Tentative Weekly Topics and Assignments

• Ch. 1: The Microbial World and You

• Ch. 3: Observing Microorganisms Through a Microscope

• Ch. 4: Functional Anatomy of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

• Ch. 5: Microbial Metabolism

• Ch. 6: Microbial Growth

• Ch. 7: The Control of Microbial Growth

• Ch. 8: Microbial Genetics

• Ch. 9: Biotechnology & DNA Technology

• Ch. 13: Viruses, Viroids, and Prions

• Ch. 14: Principles of Disease and Epidemiology

• Ch. 15: Microbial Mechanisms of Pathogenicity

Laboratory assignments include biosafety, microscopy, bacterial cell structures, Gram staining, aseptic technique, fermentation, bacterial growth curves, and genetic transfer.

Academic Policies

Attendance Policy

• Regular attendance is required for success in this course.

• Students unable to attend regularly should withdraw to avoid negative academic consequences.

• There are no make-up exams except for college-sponsored activities with prior approval.

Academic Misconduct

Academic misconduct includes all acts of dishonesty in academic matters. Examples include:

• Abetting

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Cheating

• Fabrication

• Misrepresentation

• Plagiarism

Cheating on exams or assignments will result in an 'F' for the assignment and disciplinary action according to the BSCC Student Code of Conduct.

Electronic Devices Policy

• Electronic devices may be limited during class to prevent interference with learning.

• Use of unauthorized devices or aids during quizzes and exams is considered cheating.

Disability Services

Students with documented disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations. It is the student's responsibility to provide appropriate documentation to the college.

Key Microbiology Topics Covered

• Microbial diversity: bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes, viruses

• Cell structure and function

• Microbial metabolism and growth

• Genetics and biotechnology

• Control of microbial growth

• Pathogenicity, immunology, and disease principles

• Laboratory techniques: microscopy, staining, culturing, identification

Additional info: This syllabus aligns closely with standard college-level microbiology courses and covers all foundational topics necessary for further study in health sciences, biology, and related fields.