BIO080 - Principles of Biology

Subject Title
Principles of Biology

Subject Description
This first introductory biology course provides learners with a strong knowledge of biology as it applies to health, social and environmental issues. Emphasis is given to analyzing and communicating scientific information effectively, solving problems, and performing laboratory exercises. Units of study include cellular biology, microbiology, and environmental science. The content of the course reflects the needs of adult learners preparing to enter post-secondary college programs in health and environmental sciences.

Credit Status
This course is designed according to the Academic and Career Entrance Program (ACE) approved by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and University. Upon completion of both BIO080 and BIO093 students will satisfy the biology entry requirements for most college level programs.
 

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

Upon successful completion of this course learners will be able to:

• Apply knowledge of principles and concepts of biology to the specific units of microbiology, cell and environmental biology.
• Apply knowledge from the course to health, workplace, society and environmental issues.
• Use observational and critical thinking skills to develop pathways to solve laboratory questions.
• Select and use appropriate numeric, symbolic, graphical, and linguistic modes of representation to communicate scientific ideas, plans, and experimental results.
• Assess career choices in science and technology.
• Understand appropriate safety procedures and guidelines required in laboratories, workplaces and colleges.

 
 
SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Unit 1 Cellular Biology
Upon successful completion of this unit learners will be able to:

1. list the main points of the cell theory;
2. identify and describe the structure and function of biochemical compounds, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids;
3. describe how organelles carry out various cell processes;
4. explain various processes of cellular biology, including membrane transport, cellular respiration, photosynthesis and enzyme activity;
5. list the features of each stage of meiosis and mitosis;
6. analyze the critical role of enzymes in biochemical reactions;
7. compare the chemical changes and energy transformations associated with the processes of respiration and photosynthesis;

Unit 2 Microbiology
Upon successful completion of this unit learners will be able to:

8. compare the structure and properties of the genetic material of viruses and bacteria with those of eukaryotic cells;
9. compare representative bacteria, viruses, and archea in terms of shape, motility, methods of reproduction, and connection to human diseases;
10. investigate the role of micro-organisms with respect to human health and in technological applications in medicine and industry.

Unit 3 Environmental Science
Upon successful completion of this unit learners will be able to:

11. classify organisms from a local ecosystem using the fundamental principles of taxonomy;
12. define population growth and identify the factors that influence it;
13. use energy pyramids to explain the production, distribution, and use of food resources in a food chain
14. describe the flow of matter through biogeochemical cycles

 

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.