BIOL& 211 - Majors Cellular

5.5 Credits
Introduction to molecular and cellular biology with emphasis on cellular structure and function, energetics, genetics, and evolution. Four hours lecture, and one 3-hour lab weekly. A course for life science majors, nursing and pre-professional students (was BIOL 201). Prerequisite: ENGL 100, MATH 090 and CHEM& 121 (was CHEM 101) or CHEM& 143 (was CHEM 133) or equivalent each with a grade of 2.0 or higher. Enrollment in BIOL 210 (was BIOL 211) is highly recommended.

Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of the nature of science and be able to use the scientific method when performing laboratory experiments. [REASON]
Describe, identify, and explain, with examples, the important concepts of molecular and cellular biology, and integrate them across levels of biological organization. [REASON]
Collect valid data, report data (using equations, graphs, charts and tables), critically analyze data and make conclusions based upon the experimental results. [REASON]
Explain the mechanisms of evolution, critically evaluate evidence for evolution and describe the importance of evolution in biology. [REASON]
Apply their understanding of chemistry to biology in explaining cellular structure, enzyme function, metabolic pathways, genetics, protein synthesis, cell signaling and other concepts in molecular and cellular biology. [REASON]
Describe cell theory and use their knowledge of cell parts to explain the complex functions of cells. [REASON]
Describe, compare and contrast the two mechanisms of nuclear division (mitosis and meiosis) and explain the biological importance of both and their relationship to DNA synthesis. [REASON]
Explain the basics and basis of genetics and solve and explain typical introductory genetics problems (both Mendelian and non-Mendelian). [REASON]
Explain how genes, proteins, and phenotypes (traits) are related and describe the processes of protein synthesis and gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. [REASON]
Apply the concept of structure and function across levels of biological organization. [REASON]
Describe and apply biotechnology tools and techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, restriction enzymes, bacterial transformation and others. [REASON]
Communicate effectively using language and understanding of molecular and cellular biology. [COMMUNICATE]
Appropriately select and properly and safely use a variety of laboratory techniques and instruments. [ACT]
Productively work in groups to successfully complete group activities and assignments. [COMMUNICATE]
Apply biological knowledge to important personal, social and political issues. [ACT]
Demonstrate information literacy: determine the extent of information needed and incorporate the information effectively and ethically into scientific writing. [REASON]