BIO101
BIO101
BIO101
Course Description
Focuses on foundations in cellular structure, metabolism, and genetics in an evolutionary context. Explores the
core concepts of evolution; structure and function; information flow, storage and exchange; pathways and
transformations of energy and matter; and systems biology. Emphasizes process of science, interdisciplinary
approach, and relevance of biology to society. Part I of a two-course sequence. Lecture 3 hours. Recitation and
laboratory 3 hours. Total 6 hours per week.
This course provides students with an opportunity to acquire fundamental knowledge of the principles and
living systems and their applications to everyday life. The course is designed for both science and non-science
majors. It may serve as a prerequisite for advanced biology courses, a laboratory science graduation
requirement, or as transfer credit for a four-year institution.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
Prerequisites: Competency in Math Essentials Units MTT 1-3 as demonstrated through placement and
diagnostic tests, or by completion through unit 3 in an MTT course. Competency in Math Essentials Units MTT
1-5 or equivalent is desirable. A student who provides official evidence of a minimum mathematics score of
520 on the SAT or a minimum score of 22 on the ACT taken within the last two years may register for these
courses without taking the math placement test. Placement in ENG 111 required.
Course Objectives
• Characteristics of life
• Scientific method
• Biological chemistry
• Cell structure
• Cell division (mitosis)
1
• Cell physiology
o Transport
o Metabolic processes
▪ Glycolysis
▪ Fermentation
▪ Aerobic respiration
▪ Photosynthesis
• Cell division (meiosis)
• Classical genetics
• Molecular genetics
• Population genetics
• Diversity of Life
• Evolution
Optional Topics
Research projects, field trips, research papers and seminars may be available for interested students or for
students who need these elements for a particular purpose. The optional elements may be offered at the
instructor’s discretion.