BIOL 140A - Principles of Cell and Molecular Biology

Units: 5 ; Breadth Area: GE-B2, GE-B3
Introduction to molecular and cellular biology with emphasis on the integration of structure and function in the living cell (Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes) as a biological system, cellular aspects of inheritance and basic principles of evolution. Lecture Units: 3; Lab Units: 1; Activity Units: 1.

Equivalent Quarter Course: BIOL 1401 and BIOL 1402 both completed with grade C- or better.
Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground.
Grading: A-F grading only.
Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-B2 - Lower Division Life Sciences, GE-B3 - Lower Division Laboratory Activity
Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Identify and explain the definitive characteristics of living organisms and the major physiological and developmental activities necessary for life;
Understand basic principles of biochemical reactions in the formation of biological molecules;
Describe the relationship between nucleic acids, genes and chromosomes, and describe processes of transcription and translation;
Understand the basis of mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian genetics and the chromosomal basis of inheritance;
Understand the mechanisms that govern gene regulation;
Provide a general description of metabolism with specific emphasis on the generation of cellular energy from food;
Describe basic eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structure and function.
Understand the role viruses and bacteria play in infection and disease;
Describe Natural Selection and the role of this evolutionary mechanism in the origin and diversification of both extinct and extant life on planet Earth;
Apply the steps of the scientific method to conduct laboratory investigations;
Effectively communicate scientific information in written and verbal form;
Synthesize information, think critically and solve critical thinking problems;
Write clear, well-organized essays/responses to questions that demonstrate synthesis.

B2. Life Sciences Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the life sciences;
demonstrate an understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method; and
describe the potential limits of scientific endeavors, including the accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry.

B3. Laboratory Activity Learning Outcomes

Apply their knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the physical and sciences through laboratory activities;
apply their understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method in a laboratory setting; and
demonstrate accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry, while completing laboratory activities.