Biology 104: Summer 2024
General Course Information
Course description:
This course is the second half of the Modern Biology sequence. It continues the in-depth exploration of the basic properties of living systems on the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. In addition, evolution and ecology are introduced. Representative organisms, such as plants, animals, fungi, bacteria and protists, are studied in detail. The laboratory portion of the course emphasizes phylogeny and teaches basic microscopy and dissection skills. This course is designed for students with a science background and for Forensic Science majors. Biology 104 consists of lectures, laboratory experiments, and recitation discussions covering topics in modern biology. The lecture portion comprises 50% of the course grade, the laboratory portion is worth 30% of the final grade and the recitation portion is worth 20% of the course grade.
Learning Goals of Bio104:
• Knowledge
o Outline some of the basic concepts of biology
o Understand the theory of evolution and the history of life on earth
o Know the differences and similarities between prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms
o Understand the diversity, anatomy and basic physiology in microorganisms, fungi, plants and animals
o Understand the main principles in population, community and restorative ecology
o Understand the importance of ethics in biology with respect to scientific advancements, experimental design, interpretation of results and the impacts of humans on the environment
• Reasoning
o Use knowledge of definitions and concepts to discuss topics related to the course material
o Understand how adaptations arise and how these can lead to the evolution of organisms overtime
o Explore ethical issues within the context of historical and current scientific methodologies
• Practical skills
o Illustrate the following laboratory skills and experimental techniques: use of the microscope, understanding the classification of organisms using morphological and molecular data, use of dissection tools to carry out dissections, identify major external and internal anatomical features of study organisms
o Establish proper positive and negative controls for basic experiments and understand the ethical implications of proper experimental design
• Communication
o Communicate scientific knowledge to discuss biological concepts in writing during exams, assignments and discussion boards
o Use comparative reasoning to understand the evolution of traits within organisms and within major organ systems
o Participate in discussions about scientific concepts, ethics and issues
Required Texts:
1. Lecture and Recitation (**Mastering Biology is required for this course**)
Title: Campbell Biology, Published by Pearson, 12h ed. Purchasing Options:
1. Mastering Biology with eText 18 Week Access: ISBN 9780136780809
2. Mastering Biology with eText 24 Month Access: ISBN 9780135855836
NOTE: The following “COMBO” options include Mastering Biology, the eText and a loose-leaf copy of the textbook that will be mailed to you
3. Mastering Biology Combo card: 18 Week Access: ISBN 9780136858256
4. Mastering Biology Combo card: 24 Month Access: ISBN 9780136858263
Important Information:
- A link to purchase is available on Blackboard This will link you directly to the course and is the suggested way to purchase.
- Used copies/rented texts (i.e., on Amazon) may not provide valid access to Mastering Biology
- If you have already purchased Mastering Biology (24-month) access through a previous course (Bio 102/103) then you should still have valid access and do not need to repurchase
2. Laboratory:
John Jay College Custom Biology 104 laboratory manual – available on Blackboard at no cost.