Summer 2015 BIO 101-103 COURSE SYLLABUS

BIOL. 101-103 (4 credits), meets MTWRF for lectures in Spencer Hall G7 from 10:00-11:30 am and Lab meets on TWR in Spencer Hall room G7 from 12:30-3:00 pm.

Instructor: Dr. Simon Nyaga Office: Dixon 213
Phone: 443-885-3636
Email: Simon.Nyaga@morgan.edu

Office Hours:
MF 12:30-1:30 PM or by appointment

Course Description: Introductory biology is a gateway course worth 4 credits specifically designed for non-biology majors. This is course covers major topics in biology shown below. The following general biology topics are thoroughly explored and discussed: the scientific method of solving problems, chemistry of cellular macromolecules, cellular structure and function, energy flow in cells with emphasis on respiration and photosynthesis, biotechnology and its application (emphasis on structure and function of nucleic acids), chromosomes and cell division and finally winds up a study of the basis of heredity (Genetics). In addition, evolution and its role in the creation of diversity are also thoroughly discussed.
Textbook and Course Materials: What Is Life: A Guide to Biology, 2nd edition (with Prep U) by Jay Phelan published by; W. H. Freeman and Company, New York. Information on how to access Bioportal is to be found on the separate card which comes with the textbook. A used book will not enable you to access Bioportal and therefore no access to Prep-U and learning Curve quizzes. These quizzes have been shown to improve mastery of the course material and typically students who use Pre-U do better in the course.

Laboratory Manual: Biology 1 Laboratory Manual (6th edition), Morgan State University, Published by Heyden-McNeil Publishing, Plymouth, MI

Learning objectives and outcomes: The learning objectives and outcomes for each chapter are provided on pages 1-7 of the class textbook. Use these as a guide to study the individual chapters.

Materials to be covered:
Upon completion of the course, students should understand clearly and retain materials contained in the following topics:

Chapter Topic
1. The Scientific thinking and the scientific model of solving problems
2. The chemistry of life, raw materials and fuel for our bodies
3. The cell, structure and function
4. Energy flow from the sun to the cell and its cycle (respiration and photosynthesis)
5. The DNA as the molecule of life, genetics and application of biotechnology in life
6. Chromosomal basis of life and cell division
7. Trait inheritance as modeled by Mendelian genetics

Grading and Evaluation Methods:

Chapter Examinations will be scaled to 100 pts each. There will be an in-class and an online exam for each of the 7 chapters covered. The tests will always be announced in class and on blackboard once we get close to the end of each chapter. You should study continuously since this is a one month summer course and it has a fast pace. Unless otherwise stated, the labs will account for a maximum of 100 points each. Extra credit (maximum 7 points) will be given for attaining a mastery level of 7 on each of the 7 chapters on Prep-U. Note: increased Prep-U activities have previously resulted in better performance on the tests.

Please note cell phones must not be used when taking tests, they must be stored away in book bags or inside the pockets. Use of cell phones during testing is considered cheating and will result in a grade of zero and further administrative action will be taken for any student who is caught. Seating is arranged by the faculty members on test hours and seating may be re-assigned at any time during the test. If this happens, you must cooperate.

Grading scale: 90-100 A
80-89.9 B
70-79.9 C
60-69.9 D
59.9 or below F

An “I” grade is typically not given, however, if necessary, it may be given on emergency basis only upon the request of the student. In such a case all the course requirements must be met as stipulated by the university including having completed 70% of the course material and the student must be in good academic standing (i.e. passing) at the time of the request.

Policy on Missed Quizzes or Exams: Missed quizzes or exams receive a zero unless in cases of unforeseen emergencies such as death in the family or excused absences to attend university sponsored events or academic/career activities. It is the responsibility of the student to present verifiable and legitimate documentation of the absences and to schedule the make-up work with the instructor as soon as possible (typically within 3 days of the absence). Note that the make-up work may be entirely different from the one taken by the rest of the class.

Attendance Policy: Lectures usually begin on time as scheduled except in case of unforeseen emergency. Students must sign the attendance roll every day. Perpetual tardiness is unacceptable and may affect the student’s performance in the class. Students must be familiar with the university’s attendance policy. If a student misses class, acceptable and verifiable documentation is required. Cell phone use of personal nature is prohibited while classes or labs are in progress and during testing.

Inclement Weather Policy: In the event of inclement weather, the administrative decision regarding the status of classes such as cancelations will be announced on radio station, WEAA (88.9 FM), the official university radio station for accurate information. In addition, information may be provided on local radio stations, some of which include: WBAL (AM/FM), WCAO (AM/FM), WFBR, WWIN, WBGR, WEBB, local TV channels, and Morgan’s official Web Page (www.morgan.edu). Students can also get up to date information by calling the University’s main telephone line, (443) 885-3333.

Select Student Responsibilities Include:

1. Attending classes regularly, punctually and reading the material before coming to class.
2. Coming to class prepared to learn every day, take good notes and participate in class.
3. Bringing the necessary materials (notebooks, pens, pencils, lab manuals, etc).
4. Using all available resources such as the library, tutoring sessions, Bioportal, and Blackboard in order to supplement and enrich their knowledge.
5. Turning in assignments on or before due dates.
6. Striving to do well in all quizzes and exams.
7. Respecting one another and the instructor at all times.
8. Checking with the instructor for clarification of issues pertaining to course activities.

Academic Dishonesty: Academic dishonesty is a serious issue in every academic institution and therefore should be taken very seriously. Academic dishonesty acts include cheating, data fabrication, encouraging academic dishonesty, plagiarism, etc. Morgan State University students are bound by the policy on academic dishonesty. Students must avoid committing acts of academic dishonesty. If a student engages in any of these acts, that particular quiz, exam or assignment will be canceled and the student will be assigned an automatic “zero” for that particular assessment. In addition, the student may receive an overall grade of “F” if the instructor deems it necessary. Furthermore, the student may be referred to the administration for further disciplinary action.

Copyright: unauthorized copying of textbooks or other copyrighted material is prohibited and students must abide with the copyright act.

Disability Support Services: Morgan State University is an all-inclusive university that serves students with various physical and emotional challenges. Students with any challenges should contact the administration or disability support services for confidential and special accommodation arrangements.

Counseling Center: Students in need of psychological or other counseling services should contact the counseling center at 443-885-3130 during regular business hours or the police department (443-885-3100) after hours. In case of an emergency, please call 443-885-3103. The counseling center is located in Carter Grant Wilson building.

Note: The instructor reserves the right to modify this syllabus at any time as necessary.

I hereby acknowledge that I received, read, and understood the above Biol. 101 syllabus. I agree to abide by the guidelines set forth on the syllabus.

Name: __________________________________________ Date:_________________

Signature: _______________________________________ Date:_________________