Biology Non-Science Majors I.2023-10-16.2023-12-08.TD604 BIOL1408.20231016.648912

• BIOL 1408This page of your syllabus contains information that is standard for all BIOL 1408, Biology for Non-Science Majors I, courses. Page 2 contains information that is specific to this course, such as the course schedule, grading policy, etc.  Please be sure to read both pages.
• Course IntroductionDescription:Provides a survey of biological principles with an emphasis on humans, including the chemistry of life, cell structure, cell function, and cell reproduction.This course may satisfy the Biology requirement in some curricula. Please check your degree plan to determine the status of this course in your program of study.This course is occupationally related and may serve as preparation for careers in teaching, medicine, agriculture, and perhaps other fields as well. It prepares students for all fields of work by improving their ability to think critically and three-dimensionally.Prerequisite: None. Math, reading, and writing will be required in this course. It is best to be finished with all developmental courses prior to enrollment in this course.Learning Outcomes:Upon successful completion of this Biology for Non-Science Majors I course, you will be able to:
  1. Distinguish between prokaryotic, eukaryotic, plant, and animal cells, and identify significant cell structures.
  2. Identify the cell cycle stages, mitosis (plant and animal), and meiosis.
  3. Interpret results from cell physiology experiments involving movement across membranes, enzymes, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration.
  4. Apply genetic principles to predict the outcome of genetic crosses and statistically analyze results.
  5. Describe karyotyping, pedigrees, and biotechnology and provide an example of the uses of each.
  6. Identify parts of a DNA molecule, and describe replication, transcription, and translation.
  7. Analyze evidence for evolution and natural selection.
  8. Describe the basic functioning of both the innate and adaptive immune responses. 
  Within the virtual lab simulations, you will be able to:
  1. Apply scientific reasoning to investigate questions, and utilize scientific tools such as microscopes and laboratory equipment to collect and analyze data.
  2. Use critical thinking and scientific problem-solving to make informed decisions in the laboratory.
  3. Communicate effectively the results of scientific investigations.
  4. Distinguish between prokaryotic, eukaryotic, plant, and animal cells, and identify significant cell structures.
  5. Identify the cell cycle stages, mitosis (plant and animal), and meiosis.
  6. Interpret results from cell physiology experiments involving movement across membranes, enzymes, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration.
  7. Apply genetic principles to predict the outcome of genetic crosses and statistically analyze results.
  8. Describe karyotyping, pedigrees, and biotechnology and provide an example of the uses of each.
  9. Identify parts of a DNA molecule, and describe replication, transcription, and translation.
  10. Analyze evidence for evolution and natural selection.
  This course has the same content and rigor as in a traditional (face-to-face) classroom. The online course is based on the departmental syllabus and uses the same instructional materials.
• Course MaterialsThese are the materials you will need for this course:
  • Windelspecht, M. Why Biology?, 2^nd Edition, McGraw Hill Education.
    • Note:
      • This text is an e-Book; it is not available in a physical copy.
      • Comes with a 24-month Connect access code.
      • Access via McGraw-Hill Connect.
    • Monitor the Announcements page for an announcement from your instructor providing you with the correct section information.
  Go to https://www.ctcd.edu/academics/booksinstructional-materials/ for complete information on course materials for this course. Order from MBS Direct at https://bookstore.mbsdirect.net/ctc.htm or the Central Texas College Bookstore at https://www.ctcbookstore.com/.If you do not have your textbook or other required materials by the first day of class, contact your instructor immediately. Failure to do so within the first five (5) days of class may limit the options you have and may increase your financial burden for this course.
• Academic Misconduct PolicyCTC takes academic misconduct very seriously.  Academic misconduct is not only plagiarism but instead includes and is not limited to,
  • sharing passwords and other log-in information to Blackboard or BioSig-ID.
  • masking IPs, using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), or otherwise disguising location.
  To ensure that you do not commit academic misconduct which could lead to a grade of 0 in the course or disciplinary action of suspension or expulsion, please refer to the Academic Misconduct Policy in the CTC Catalog and in the Student Handbook.Select “reviewed” to indicate that you have read and understood the Academic Misconduct Policy. Reviewed
• Withdrawal ProcessSTUDENTS: You are responsible for this information about withdrawals.Withdrawal From Classes: It is the student’s responsibility to officially drop a class if circumstances prevent attendance. An instructor cannot initiate a withdrawal based on a student’s request.
  • ArmyIgnitEd students: It is your responsibility to officially drop a class if circumstances prevent attendance or completion. You may do so via your Eagle Self-Service account up until the day before the start date. To officially withdraw from a course on or after the first class day, submit an Application for Withdrawal through the Etrieve (eForms) portal. Action is also required on ArmyIgnitED. 
  • VA students must contact Veteran Services. 
  • International students must have approval from the Director of International Student Services.
  • All other students who desire to or must officially withdraw from a course on or after the first scheduled class meeting must file an Application for Withdrawal through Etrieve (eForms) by the last date to withdraw. Students enrolled in distance learning courses and who do not have access to a local CTC representative or Eagle Self-Service should contact [email protected] or the CTC Records Office in Killeen, Texas.
  Faculty are authorized to withdraw students who do not complete the required activities by the census certification date. After the census date, withdrawal becomes the responsibility of the student. Review the general withdrawal policies.
• “IP” (Incomplete, Course in Progress)In general, “IP” grades are not granted; i.e., you must complete all coursework by the last day of class, and you must meet any and all deadlines within the course session as posted by your instructor. An “IP” grade may be granted in accordance with CTC policies when the course is expected to continue after its official end date.An “IP” grade may be assigned by an instructor. In order to be considered for an “IP” you must meet all of the following requirements:
  • You have made satisfactory progress in a course.
  • You have completed the major portion of the course requirements as scheduled, with the exception of a major quiz, final exam, or other projects.
  • The reason for being unable to complete the course requirements is due to circumstances beyond your control, such as personal illness, death in the immediate family, military orders, or, in the case of distance learning courses, institutional technology issues.
  • You can provide acceptable documentation of these circumstances.
  • You have notified the instructor in advance of absences/non-participation, whenever possible.
  • Provide a realistic proposal with specific timelines for the completion of the remaining course requirements.
  Any requests for an “IP” grade must be submitted to your instructor in writing (emails or messages) prior to the end of the course. IPs are not granted automatically. The instructor makes the final decision concerning the granting of the incomplete grade (course extension) and will set an appropriate deadline for the extension based on the amount of coursework remaining. An “IP” grade cannot be replaced by the grade of “W.” If you elect to repeat the course, then you must register for the class. After you pay full tuition and fees, then you must repeat the entire course.It is your responsibility to arrange with the instructor for the assignment of work necessary to complete the course within the time specified. You are also responsible for maintaining contact with your instructor during this time period.All coursework must be submitted prior to 110 days from the last day of class to allow for the processing of your grade. Failure to do so will result in the IP becoming an F or FI. Under no circumstances will the deadline exceed 110 days after the scheduled end of the course.If you feel you cannot continue with the course, it is your responsibility to withdraw using the appropriate procedures based on your individual situation. Information and forms are available at https://www.ctcd.edu/forms-1/student-forms/. Questions may be directed to the Student Services Advisor at [email protected]. Failure to properly withdraw may result in your earning a failing grade for this course.
• Frequently Asked QuestionsConsult your instructor for any course content questions. Check out the information at the Tech Support tab for technical questions.Note: In order to play streaming videos, you must have RealPlayer. It is available as a free download at https://www.real.com/realplayer/search. MAC users may use QuickTime, which is also available for free at https://www.apple.com/quicktime/.CR/Instructor may add questions and answers here.

• BIOL 1408This page of your syllabus contains information that is specific to this course, such as the course schedule, grading policy, etc. Page 1 contains information that is standard for all BIOL 1408, Biology for Non-Science Majors I, courses. Please be sure to read both pages.
• Delivery and Terms
  1. This is NOT a self-paced course. Your instructor has assigned deadlines for specific assignments as shown in the course schedule.
  2. This is a self-paced course, which means that you may work at your own pace within the eight weeks of the course, but you MUST complete all coursework on or before the last day of class. To help you meet this requirement, your instructor has provided a recommended course schedule. Refer often to the course schedule and the course calendar to stay on task.
  3. This is a blended course. This means that you may be required to meet in a classroom or other location at specified times throughout the course. Some coursework will be accomplished online in Blackboard.
  4. This is a face-to-face course. Your instructor may or may not choose to use certain parts of Blackboard to facilitate the course. Ask your instructor for specific information regarding the use of Blackboard for your course.
  The class begins on 10/16 and ends on 12/8. Please use BIOL-1408-TD604 with all correspondence regarding this course.
• Assignments and Course ScheduleInstructors: It is recommended to cover one unit every two weeks for an 8-week course. You may make each unit all due at that two-week mark or break it up week-by-week, it is up to your discretion.Assignments
  • Assignments are described in each unit. In general, Connect Homework Assignments, Connect Adaptive Quizzes, Discussion Boards, and Unit Quizzes are required for each unit.
  • A Midterm and Final exam must be completed in Blackboard using BioSig.
  • Units may include other activities, Internet links (Videos and Articles), and Connect Virtual Lab Simulations, which should be viewed prior to completing a unit quiz or exam.
  Course ScheduleSchedule of AssignmentsUnitUnit & ModulesAssignmentsDue Dates1Energy Drinks
  (Energy & Nutrients; Photosynthesis)Course Orientation Quiz
  Connect Virtual Labs: Labs 1-8
  Connect Adaptive Quizzes: Energy Drinks Modules 1-4, Climate Change Module 2
  Connect Homework Assignment: Energy Drink Modules 1-4, Climate Change Module 2
  Discussion Boards 1 & 2
  Unit 1 Quiz10/272CancerConnect Virtual Labs: Labs 9-12
  Connect Adaptive Quizzes: Cancer Modules 1-3
  Connect Homework Assignment: Cancer Modules 1-3
  Discussion Boards 3 & 4
  Unit 2 Quiz11/10Midterm Examno later than 11/103Sickle Cell DiseaseConnect Virtual Labs: Labs 13-18
  Connect Adaptive Quizzes: Sickle Cell Modules 1-4
  Connect Homework Assignment: Sickle Cell Modules 1-4
  Discussion Board 5
  Unit 3 Quiz11/244Influenza AConnect Virtual Labs: Labs 19-22
  Connect Adaptive Quizzes: Influenza Modules 1-3
  Connect Homework Assignment: Influenza Modules 1-3
  Discussion Boards 6 & 7
  Unit 4 Quiz12/08Final Examno later than 12/08Copyright Notice: Materials used in connection with the course may be subject to copyright protection.
• Exam InformationYour Course ExamsExamUnits
  CoveredReferencesTime LimitDatesLocationMidterm1 – 2Not allowed90 min11/10ExamsFinal3 – 4Not allowed90 min12/08Exams
• Course GradeGraded items:Connect grades are posted in the Connect grade book, including Virtual Lab Simulations These items will be rolled into the Blackboard grade book after the assignments are completed. Please note that it may take several days before graded items are reflected in the Blackboard grade book.Your Discussion Board, Midterm, and Final Exams grades will post directly to Blackboard.Grade ComponentsComponentPossible PointsCourse Orientation Quiz10 pointsConnect – Homework Assignments40 pointsConnect – Adaptive Quizzes40 pointsConnect – Unit Quizzes
  (4 @ 20 points)80 pointsConnect – Virtual Lab Simulations
  250 pointsDiscussion Boards
  (6 @ 10 points)60 pointsGroup Discussion Board15 pointsPeer Evaluation Form5 pointsMidterm Exam250 pointsFinal Exam250 pointsTotal1000 points This is how your course grade will be determined:Course Grade CalculationGradeABCDFPoints900-1000800-899700-799600-6990-599Monitor your progressYou can check your grades throughout the course by selecting the Tools > My Grades link in the menu. After the course ends and your instructor has submitted grades, you can view your course grade at Eagle Self-Service.
• Course ContractBy continuing with the course, you certify that you:
  • have thoroughly read the syllabus and all relevant orientation information.
  • understand that this course has a fixed start and end date.
  • understand the delivery mode of this course; i.e., not self-paced, self-paced, or blended.
  • understand that this is not a watered-down course; you will use the same textbook and complete the same requirements as in a traditional classroom.
  • agree to submit your assignments electronically or as instructed by your instructor within the accepted time frame.
  • agree to the course conditions and requirements.
  • have read and agree to the scholastic honesty statement.
  Refer to the Distant Learner Handbook at https://online.ctcd.edu/handbook.cfm for policies and procedures that affect you, the distant learner.  Remember, all course concerns must be directed to your instructor.  If your instructor does not respond within 48 hours or you feel that no resolution has occurred, refer to the Grievance Policy as stated in the Distant Learner Handbook.Confirm that you have read this contract by selecting the reviewed button. Reviewed