Course Content and Outcome Guide for BI 211
- Course Number:
- BI 211
- Course Title:
- Principles of Biology
- Credit Hours:
- Lecture Hours:
- Lecture/Lab Hours:
- Lab Hours:
- Special Fee:
Course DescriptionIncludes introduction to science, biochemistry, metabolism, the cell, molecular biology, and reproduction. The first course of a three-course sequence for students majoring in biology and the sciences, including premedical, pre-dental, chiropractic, pharmacy, and related fields. Recommended: High school biology and chemistry within the past seven years. Prerequisites: WR 115 and RD 115 or equivalent placement test scores, and MTH 95 or higher. Prerequisite/Concurrent: CH 151 or higher; or instructor permission. Audit available.
Addendum to Course Description
Science is a fundamentally non-dogmatic and self-correcting investigatory process. In science, a theory is neither a guess, dogma, nor myth. The theories developed through scientific investigation are not decided in advance, but can be and often are modified and revised through observation and experimentation.
The theory of evolution meets the criteria of a scientific theory. In contrast, creation Ascience@ is neither self-examining nor investigatory. Creation Ascience@ is not considered a legitimate science, but a form of religious advocacy. This position is established by legal precedence (Webster v. New Lenox School District #122, 917 F. 2d 1004).
Biology instructors of Portland Community College will teach the theory of evolution not as absolute truth but as the most widely accepted scientific theory on the diversity of life. We, the Biology Subject Area Curriculum Committee at Portland Community College, therefore stand with such organizations as the National Association of Biology Teachers in opposing the inclusion of pseudo-sciences in our science curricula.
Intended Outcomes for the course
Students will be able to:
? apply biological theories and concepts from biochemistry and cell biology to novel problems in their lives and community (personal, work, and career);
? use the scientific method, including experimental design, data collection, and presentations of results and conclusions while analyzing their individual thinking and learning styles and how their styles can be integrated with methods used in science.
? Assess the strengths and weaknesses of scientific studies in biochemistry and cell biology and critically examine the influence of scientific and technical knowledge of biochemistry and cell biology on human society and the environment.
? develop informed positions and opinions on contemporary issues in biochemistry and cell biology, while considering ethical, scientific, community, and cultural implications;
? communicate concepts in biochemistry and cell biology using appropriate terminology in both written and verbal forms.
? competently enter and complete further work in the sciences, including Biology 212 and upperlevel courses in biochemistry and cell biology.
Outcome Assessment Strategies
Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)
1. The properties of living things
Competencies and Skills: