BackBiology 1310: Genes, Cells & Macromolecules – Syllabus and Course Structure
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Biology 1310: Genes, Cells & Macromolecules – Syllabus and Course Structure
Course Overview
Biology 1310 is the first half of the introductory biology sequence at UPEI, focusing on cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics. The course explores the molecules that constitute cells, the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cellular energy processes, and the molecular basis of heredity. The course also introduces students to scientific thinking and laboratory skills.
Major Themes
What is life? – Understanding how molecules and cell structures interact to form living organisms.
How do I think like a scientist? – Developing scientific skills and understanding the iterative nature of scientific inquiry.
Course Materials
Textbook: Campbell Biology – 4th Canadian Edition (earlier editions also acceptable). Optional access to Mastering Biology software.
Openstax Biology (free online resource): https://openstax.org/details/books/biology-2e
Lab Manual: Biology 1310 Lab Manual by Eric Pass (required for labs).
Lecture Slides: Available on Moodle before each class.
Course Communication
Email: Primary method for contacting the instructor (Dr. Robert Déziel).
Office Hours: 8:30 AM – 10:20 AM, Monday to Friday, or by appointment.
Moodle: Used for announcements, syllabus, lecture slides, and lab information.
Assessment and Grading
Midterm 1: 15%
Midterm 2: 15%
Final Exam: 30%
Class Participation (Poll Everywhere): 7%
Online Moodle Pre-Midterm Quiz: 3%
Laboratory Component: 30% (managed by the lab coordinator)
Course Topics and Textbook Chapters
The following topics align with the standard introductory biology curriculum and correspond to the chapters in Campbell Biology (4th Canadian Edition):
Chapter 0: Introduction to the course
Chapters 2-4: Basic chemistry for biologists, water, and carbon
Chapter 5: Major biological macromolecules
Chapter 6: Cellular structures
Chapter 7: Cellular membranes
Chapters 8 & 9: Cellular metabolism
Chapter 10: Photosynthesis
Chapter 11: Cell communication
Chapters 12 & 13: The cell cycle (mitosis and meiosis)
Chapter 15: Chromosomes
Chapter 14: Mendelian inheritance (Genetics Part I)
Chapter 16: Molecular inheritance (Genetics Part II)
Chapter 17: Gene expression Part I
Chapter 18: Gene expression Part II
Chapter 21: Genomics
Chapter 19: Viruses
Assorted material: Prions
Note: The schedule is tentative and may change based on class progress and interest.
Laboratory Schedule
Week of | Lab Exercise |
|---|---|
September 8 | Lab 1 - Microscopy and Biological Illustration |
September 15 | Lab 2 - Macromolecules and Food Analysis (with quiz from Lab 1) |
September 22 | Lab 3 - Cells (with quiz from Lab 2) |
September 29 | Lab 4 - Diffusion/Osmosis (with quiz from Lab 3) |
October 6 | Lab 5 - Scientific Writing (with quiz from Lab 4) |
October 13 | No laboratory |
October 20 | Lab 6 - Spectrophotometry and Enzymology (no quiz) |
October 27 | Lab 7 - Photosynthesis and Energetics (no quiz, Results section due) |
November 3 | Lab 8 - Mitosis/Meiosis (Enzymology lab report due, quiz from Lab 7) |
November 10 | No laboratory |
November 17 | Lab 9 - Genetics (quiz from Lab 8) |
November 24-28 | Laboratory examination (during regular lab period) |
Classroom and Academic Policies
Attendance: Tracked via Poll Everywhere; participation, not correctness, is graded.
Academic Integrity: Cheating, plagiarism, falsifying records, and tampering with resources are prohibited. Refer to Academic Regulation 20 for details.
Accommodations: Contact Accessibility Services for test/exam accommodations.
Academic Appeals: Refer to Academic Regulation 12 for grade and assignment appeals.
Key Skills Developed
Understanding the molecular and cellular basis of life
Applying scientific reasoning and experimental design
Developing laboratory skills in microscopy, biochemical analysis, and genetics
Interpreting and communicating scientific data
