BIOL 140A - Principles of Cell and Molecular Biology

Units: 5 ; Breadth Area: GE-5B, GE-5C
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.

Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-5B - Lower Division Physical and Biological Sciences (Biological) and GE-5C Lower Division Physical and Biological Sciences (Laboratory)
Possible Instructional Methods: On-ground.
Grading: A-F grading only.
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.

GE-5B. Biological 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.

GE-5C. Physical and Biological Sciences (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.