BIOL 1113: Principles of Biology I
This course is designed for biology or science majors. Students examine the molecular basis of cellular processes including energy transfer and the storage and use of genetic information.
BIOL 1115, the laboratory component of BIOL 1113, is usually offered once per year in the summertime in Kamloops BC.
Learning outcomes
- Identify and characterize the common molecular elements of all life on the planet.
- Identify, characterize, and draw the basic biomolecules found in cells, relating form to function.
- Describe how organisms transform energy via various metabolic processes.
- Understand how genetic information encoded in genomes is transcribed and translated into regulatory nucleic acids, and structural and functional proteins.
- Understand the molecular basis of inheritance in sexually reproducing organisms, and how this relates to evolution driven by natural selection.
- Develop the principles of effective communication in science through concise, well-ordered arguments using a variety of media.
Course topics
- Unit 1: Foundation
- Unit 2: Biomolecules
- Unit 3: Cellular Metabolism
- Unit 4: Genes and Heredity
Required text and materials
The following Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) textbook, free of charge, is required for this course:
- Singh, N. R. (2023). Introduction to Biology.
https://openintrobiology.pressbooks.tru.ca/ CC BY 4.0
Additional requirements
- A computer with Internet access
- Headphones or computer speakers
Assessments
Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.
To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the final mandatory exam.
| Quizzes | 10% |
| Assignment 1: Unit 1 Reflection | 5% |
| Assignment 2: Unit 2 Reflection and Case Study | 15% |
| Assignment 3: Unit 3 Reflection and Case Study | 20% |
| Assignment 4: Unit 4 Reflection and Case Study | 20% |
| Mandatory Final Exam | 30% |
| Total | 100% |
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.
