Division of Earth, Life & Natural Sciences
Biology Department

BIOL 1106: General Biology | Laboratory | #15249
Spring 2020  | 16 Week (1.21.2020-5.17.2020) 
In-Person | West Loop Rm 163 | F 11:00 A M.-1:50 p.m.
1 Credit Hours | 48 hours per semester

Instructor Contact Information

Instructor: 	Suziat Deolu-Sobogun, Ph.D.			
		Office Hours : By appointment
HCC Email:	suziat.deolu-sobogun@hccs.edu 		
Please feel free to contact me concerning any problems that you are experiencing in this course.  Your performance in my class is very important to me. I am available to hear the concerns and just to discuss course topics.

Instructor’s Preferred Method of Contact

I will respond to emails within 24-48 hours Monday through Friday; I will reply to weekend messages during the following week.

What’s Exciting About This Course

You will learn Biology through hands on laboratory experiments. You may even enjoy the lab component more than the lecture because it is hands on and will help in the understanding of key topics in Biology. Like scientists in research labs all over the world, you will follow the scientific method, design experiments and work as a team. You will learn to record your observations in the written lab reports. How useful is the microscope in viewing cells? Why do we need to stain cells? How are plant cells different from animal cells? How do cells divide and why? You will learn methods to find biological molecules in different foods, separate pigments from plants, isolate and separate DNA. In this lab course you will also learn how we inherit traits from our parents and will be able to do various genetics problems. 

My Personal Welcome

Welcome to General Biology Lab—I’m delighted that you have chosen this course! One of my passions is to know as much as I can about human behavior, and I can hardly wait to pass that on. I will present the information in the most exciting way I know, so that you can grasp the concepts and apply them now and hopefully throughout your life.

As you read and wrestle with new ideas and facts that may challenge you, I am available to support you. The fastest way to reach me is by my HCC email. The best way to really discuss issues is in person and I’m available during posted office hours to tackle the questions. My goal is for you to walk out of the course with a better understanding of yourself and of human behavior.  So please visit me or contact me by email whenever you have a question.

Prerequisites and/or Co-Requisites

Pre/Co-requisite: BIOL 1306 Biology for Science Majors I (lecture). If you have enrolled in this course having satisfied these pre/co requisites, you have a higher chance of success than students who have not done so.

Please carefully read the repeater policy in the HCCS Student Handbook.

Canvas Learning Management System

All Biology sections utilize Canvas (https://eagleonline.hccs.edu) to supplement in-class assignments, exams, and activities.  

Open Lab Locations

HCCS Open Computer Lab locations may be used to access the Internet and Canvas.  USE FIREFOX OR CHROME AS THE INTERNET BROWSER. 

HCC Online Information and Policies

For online/hybrid students. As an online /hybrid student, you are responsible for all information/requirements provided by the online college. Here is the link to information about HCC Online classes http://www.hccs.edu/online/. This includes the mandatory online course prior to start of class. 

Scoring Rubrics, Sample Assignments, etc.

When applicable, look in Canvas for the scoring rubrics for assignments, samples of class assignments, and other information to assist you in the course. 
https://eagleonline.hccs.edu/login/ldap

Instructional Materials

Required Resources
The textbook listed below is required for this course.

Biology 1106 Lab. Manual: Biology 1106 Laboratory Manual, 5th Edition, 2019. Contributing authors: Aukje “Tineke” Berends, Tom Loesch, Jennifer O’Neil, Leena Sawant, David Schwartz, Nimish Shah and Donna Wiersema. Blue Door Publishing, ISBN 978-1-64386-258-3
The laboratory manual can be found at the HCC Bookstore. Order your laboratory manual here: HCC Bookstore

Suggested Resources

HCCS Biology Lab Study Pages
Click here to access Biology lab study pages online.

OER???

Other Instructional Resources

Tutoring
HCC provides free, confidential, and convenient academic support, including writing critiques,  to HCC students in an online environment and on campus.  Tutoring is provided by HCC personnel in order to ensure that it is contextual and appropriate.  Visit the HCC Tutoring Services website for services provided.

Libraries
The HCC Library System consists of 9 libraries and 6 Electronic Resource Centers (ERCs) that are inviting places to study and collaborate on projects.  Librarians are available both at the libraries and online to show you how to locate and use the resources you need.  The libraries maintain a large selection of electronic resources as well as collections of books, magazines, newspapers, and audiovisual materials.  The portal to all libraries’ resources and services is the HCCS library web page at http://library.hccs.edu.
 
Supplementary Instruction
Supplemental Instruction is an academic enrichment and support program that uses peer-assisted study sessions to improve student retention and success in historically difficult courses.  Peer Support is provided by students who have already succeeded in completion of the specified course, and who earned a grade of A or B.  Find details at http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/supplemental-instruction/.

Course Overview

BIOL 1106 laboratory-based course accompanies BIOL 1306 Biology for Science Majors I. Laboratory activities will reinforce the fundamental principles of living organisms, including physical and chemical properties of life, organization, function, evolutionary adaptation, and classification. Study and examination of the concepts of cytology, reproduction, genetics, and scientific reasoning are included.
*** Use ACGM course description per course.

Core Curriculum Objectives (CCOs)

BIOL 1306 is a course that covers fundamental principles of living organisms, including physical and chemical properties of life, organization, function, evolutionary adaptation, and classification. Concepts of cytology, reproduction, genetics, and scientific reasoning are also included.
•	Critical Thinking: Students will demonstrate the ability to engage in inquiry and analysis, evaluation and synthesis of information, and creative thinking by completing a written assignment such as a book report, research paper, or essay.
•	Communication Skills: Students will demonstrate effective development, interpretation and expression of ideas through written, oral, and visual communication by completing a written assignment such as a book report, research paper, or essay.
•	Quantitative and Empirical Literacy: Students will demonstrate the ability to complete the required experiments, draw conclusions, record results in the form of graphs, tables in the laboratory manual, completing pre-lab and post-lab assignments, and answer questions on quizzes and exams that pertain to Course Student Learning Outcome #1 below.
•	Social Responsibility: Students will demonstrate the ability to engage effectively in conducting laboratory experiments as a team, complete the conclusion and results as a follow up discussion, complete laboratory pre-lab and post-lab assignments, and answer questions on quizzes and exams that pertain to Course Student Learning Outcome #2 below.
•	

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

Can be found at: https://www.hccs.edu/programs/areas-of-study/science-technology-engineering--math/biology/
Course Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs)

Upon successful completion of BIOL 1106, students will:
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. Communicate effectively the results of scientific investigations.
3.	Explain the methods of inquiry used by scientist.
4.	Identify the basic properties of substances needed for life.
5.	Compare and contrast the structures, reproduction, and characteristics of prokaryotic cells, and eukaryotic cells.
6.	Describe the structure of cell membranes and the movement of molecules across a membrane. Identify the substrates, products, and important chemical pathways in metabolism.
7.	Identify the principles of inheritance and solve classical genetic problems.
8.	Identify the chemical structures, synthesis, and regulation of nucleic acids and proteins. 

Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives for each CSLO can be found at Learning Objectives for BIOL 1306

Student Success

Academic standards require a minimum of 3 study hours for every contact hour; meaning for a class that meets 3 hours per week, you need to budget and set aside a minimum of 9 hours each week to study and prep for your course success. Expect to spend at least twice as many hours per week outside of class as you do in class studying the course content. Additional time will be required for written assignments. The assignments provided will help you use your study hours wisely. Successful completion of this course requires a combination of the following:
•	Reading the textbook
•	Attending class in person and/or online
•	Timely completion of assignments
•	Participating in class activities
•	Successful exam performance, including the mandatory final

There is no short cut for success in this course; it requires reading and studying the material using the course objectives as a guide.

Instructor and Student Responsibilities

As your Instructor, it is my responsibility to:
•	Provide the grading scale and detailed grading formula explaining how student grades are to be derived
•	Facilitate an effective learning environment through learner-centered instructional techniques
•	Provide a description of any special projects or assignments
•	Inform students of policies such as attendance, withdrawal, tardiness, and making up assignments
•	Provide the course outline and class calendar that will include a description of any special projects or assignments
•	Arrange to meet with individual students before and after class as required

As a student, it is your responsibility to:
•	Attend class in person and/or online
•	Participate actively by reviewing course material, interacting with classmates, and responding promptly in your communication with me
•	Read and comprehend the textbook
•	Complete the required assignments and exams
•	Ask for help when there is a question or problem
•	Keep copies of all paperwork, including this syllabus, handouts, and all assignments
•	Attain a raw score of at least 50% on the departmental final exam
•	Be aware of and comply with academic honesty policies in the HCCS Student Handbook 

Assignments, Exams, and Activities

Written Assignment

PROJECT: A major project is required for this class, student will write a full scientific report on one of the lab topic.
Exams

Exams: Lab exams will cover content and techniques learned during the lab. There will be no make-ups for lab exams. There will be 3 lab exams including finals. Exams may be in a short answer, identification, labeling and hands on experiment format. Lab exams will not be take-home or open book exams. Exams will be graded and you will have the opportunity to go over your grade and exam with me.

Final Exam 

All students will be required to take a final exam consisting .All the information students need to prepare for the exam is in the Final Exam Handbook. 

Students who are absent from the final exam without discussing their absence with the instructor in advance or within 24 hours afterward will receive a course grade of Incomplete.  Any student who does not take a makeup exam by the end of the following long semester will receive a final exam grade of zero and a course grade of F.

Grading Formula 

Lab Exams: 30%
Lab Reports: 25%
Project: 15%
Final Exam: 30%

Below is the letter grade designation:
A: 100 – 90
B: 89 – 80 
C: 79 – 70 
D: 69 – 60 
F: Below 60
Departmental Final Exam	 100 points

Grade	Total Points	
A	900+	
B	800-899	
C	700-799	
D	600-699	
F	<600	

Incomplete Policy: 
In this course, the purposes of the “I” (incomplete) grade is for students who are caught up and passing at the student withdrawal deadline, and then have a medical or other problem that prevents them from completing the course. If you are not passing at the student withdrawal deadline, you should drop yourself from the course, or you will likely earn an “F.” An incomplete “I” grade will be given only if all of the following conditions are met: 
•	You have earned at least 85% of the available points by the date that the “I” grade is requested. 
•	You can provide documentation showing why you should earn an incomplete, such as a doctor's note, etc.
•	You must be passing with a grade of “C” or better.
•	You must request the incomplete in writing BEFORE May 1st.
•	In all cases, the instructor reserves the right to decline a student’s request to receive a grade of Incomplete.

HCC Grading Scale can be found on this site under Academic Information: 
http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/student-handbook/

Course Calendar
FRIDAY 11:00AM-1:50PM                
TENTATIVE INSTRUCTIONAL OUTLINE: The Instructor reserves the right to change the instructional outline if needed. Students will be informed in a timely manner of any changes. 
Week		LECTURE	
1. 	1/24/20	   CLASS ORIENTATION
   LABORATORY SAFETY
   EXERCISE 6: THE CARE AND THE USE OF MICROSCOPE
1. SCIENTIFIC  MEASUREMENT
	
2.	1/31/20	2.SCIENTIFIC METHOD, AND EXPERIMENT
 3.BASIC CHEMISTRY
	
3. 	2/7/20	EXERCISE 4: PROPERTIES OF WATER 
	
4.	2/14/20	EXERCISE 5: DETECTION OF BIOLOGICAL MOLECULES.
PROJECT: WRITE  SCIENTIFIC REPORT	
5. 	2/21/20	
M EXERCISE 7: CELL STRUCTURE
	
6. 	2/28/20	
EXAM 1(1-4,6)	
7. 	3/6/20	
EXERCISE 8: DIFFUSION AND OSMOSIS

8. 	3/13/20	EXERCISE 9:ENZYMES
	
9. 	3/20/20	SPRING BREAK	
10. 	3/27/20	
EXERCISE 10: RESPIRATION AND FERMENTATION
	
10.	4/3/20	EXERCISE 11: PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND SPECTROPHOTOMETRY
	
11. 	4/10/20	
PRESIDENTS DAY	
12	4/17/20	SPRING HOLIDAY	
13	4/24/20	LAB EXAM 2 (5,7-10)
	
14	5/1/20	EXERCISE 12 :  CELL DIVISION
	
15	5/8/20	EXERCISE 13  GENETICS

EXERCISE 14 DNA TO PROTEIN
	
16	5/15/20	FINAL EXAM (11-14)	

Syllabus Modifications
The instructor reserves the right to modify the syllabus at any time during the semester and will promptly notify students in writing, typically by e-mail, of any such changes.

Instructor’s Practices and Procedures

Missed Assignments
Lab report: Question page for all exercise of the lab manual will be due for submission the next lab class or as stated by the instructor. A late submission by 1 class attracts 20% off, afterwards the report will not be accepted or graded.

Academic Integrity
<< Modify Section & Delete Placeholder Text >> Scholastic Dishonesty will result in a referral to the Dean of Student Services.  See the link below for details.

Here’s the link to the HCC information about academic integrity (Scholastic Dishonesty and Violation of Academic Scholastic Dishonesty and Grievance): 
http://www.hccs.edu/about-hcc/procedures/student-rights-policies--procedures/student-procedures/ 

Attendance Procedures
Attendance: Attendance is critical. Your success in this course will be the direct result of your attendance for each class and your participation throughout the course. Student is expected to be on time and to attend each class/lab (and is therefore responsible for all material covered/announcements, etc.). Good class attendance and participation is absolutely essential to do well in this course!  In case of a any absence (2 or more class meetings), the Professor should be notified.

Student Conduct
NO EATING OR DRINKING OR SMOKING IN LABORATORY: No food or drinks are allowed in the laboratory.  In addition, no smoking is allowed. No open toe shoes, dress appropriately to protect your skin.

Student Services Policies: Access up-to-date Student Services Policies on their Web site:http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/student-handbook/

Tips:
Success in this course depends solely on the individual student! 
The following are some strongly recommended tips for students: 
• Understand and complete all elements within the syllabus. 
Everyone wants to do well in this class.  I want you all to learn the material and succeed     
in the course.  Here are some tips to help you on your way:
•	Attend every class.  It's a great opportunity to work with other people, ask questions, and learn things that may not be covered well in the book or notes.  
•	Ask questions!  If you aren’t getting something, I can guarantee you that other people in the class don’t get it either.  You are not supposed to know everything when you get here-but if you don’t ask questions, you won’t know it when you leave either
•	Find a Study Buddy, or better yet a study group.  Science is a group activity—and learning science is, too.  Your studying will be much more productive if you do it with at least one other person.  You can quiz each other, take turns explaining topics and ideas, and entertain one another as you work.
•	Don't wait until the night before to study; it will be overwhelming.  Instead, go over the material after every class.  This breaks it into manageable chunks—and you get to sleep the night before the test, too.
•	Make the study interactive.  Use flashcards, quiz a friend, or re-write parts of your notes from memory.  Don't just stare at the information—you'll bore yourself to tears.

QUESTIONS/PROBLEMS: If you have any questions or problems at any time, first contact me as soon as possible.  The worst thing you can do is wait to contact me or to not take advantage of the resources available to you.  By taking an active part in your education, you will make your academic experience much more rewarding and exciting!!

Electronic Devices
Please silence all mobile devices during class time. No electronic device (Laptop, phone, ear phones, speaker) is allowed during the lecture time, unless stated by the instructor. 

Biology Program Information

The Biology area of study here at HCC covers the smallest and simplest organisms (microbiology) to the largest and most complex organisms (human anatomy and physiology, zoology, botany).

AWARD TYPES: Associate in Science
AREA OF STUDY: Science, Technology, Engineering & Math

Please visit link: https://www.hccs.edu/programs/areas-of-study/science-technology-engineering--math/biology/

HCC Policies
Here’s the link to the HCC Student Handbook http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/student-handbook/   In it you will find information about the following:

•	Academic Information
•	Academic Support
•	Attendance, Repeating Courses, and Withdrawal
•	Career Planning and Job Search
•	Childcare
•	disAbility Support Services
•	Electronic Devices
•	Equal Educational Opportunity
•	Financial Aid TV (FATV)
•	General Student Complaints
•	Grade of FX
•	Incomplete Grades
•	International Student Services
•	Health Awareness
•	Libraries/Bookstore
•	Police Services & Campus Safety
•	Student Life at HCC
•	Student Rights and Responsibilities
•	Student Services
•	Testing
•	Transfer Planning
•	Veteran Services

EGLS3
The EGLS3 (Evaluation for Greater Learning Student Survey System) will be available for most courses near the end of the term until finals start.  This brief survey will give invaluable information to your faculty about their teaching.  Results are anonymous and will be available to faculty and division chairs after the end of the term.  EGLS3 surveys are only available for the Fall and Spring semesters.  EGLS3 surveys are not offered during the Summer semester due to logistical constraints.
http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/egls3-evaluate-your-professors/ 

Campus Carry Link
Here’s the link to the HCC information about Campus Carry: http://www.hccs.edu/departments/police/campus-carry/

HCC Email Policy
When communicating via email, HCC requires students to communicate only through the HCC email system to protect your privacy.  If you have not activated your HCC student email account, you can go to HCC Eagle ID and activate it now.  You may also use Canvas Inbox to communicate.

Housing and Food Assistance for Students 
Any student who faces challenges securing their foods or housing and believes this may affect their performance in the course is urged to contact the Dean of Students at their college for support. Furthermore, please notify the professor if you are comfortable in doing so.  

This will enable HCC to provide any resources that HCC may possess.

Office of Institutional Equity

Use the link below to access the HCC Office of Institutional Equity, Inclusion, and Engagement (http://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/) 

disAbility Services 
HCC strives to make all learning experiences as accessible as possible.  If you anticipate or experience academic barriers based on your disability (including long and short term conditions, mental health, chronic or temporary medical conditions), please meet with a campus Abilities Counselor as soon as possible in order to establish reasonable accommodations.  Reasonable accommodations are established through an interactive process between you, your instructor(s) and Ability Services.  It is the policy and practice of HCC to create inclusive and accessible learning environments consistent with federal and state law.  For more information, please go to http://www.hccs.edu/support-services/disability-services/ 

Title IX
Houston Community College is committed to cultivating an environment free from inappropriate conduct of a sexual or gender-based nature including sex discrimination, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual violence.  Sex discrimination includes all forms of sexual and gender-based misconduct and violates an individual’s fundamental rights and personal dignity.  Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex-including pregnancy and parental status in educational programs and activities.  If you require an accommodation due to pregnancy please contact an Abilities Services Counselor.  The Director of EEO/Compliance is designated as the Title IX Coordinator and Section 504 Coordinator.  All inquiries concerning HCC policies, compliance with applicable laws, statutes, and regulations (such as Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504), and complaints may be directed to:

David Cross
Director EEO/Compliance
Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity
3100 Main
(713) 718-8271
Houston, TX 77266-7517 or Institutional.Equity@hccs.edu
http://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/title-ix-know-your-rights/ 

Office of the Dean of Students
Contact the office of the Dean of Students to seek assistance in determining the correct complaint procedure to follow or to identify the appropriate academic dean or supervisor for informal resolution of complaints.

https://www.hccs.edu/about-hcc/procedures/student-rights-policies--procedures/student-complaints/speak-with-the-dean-of-students/

Department Chair Contact Information
Dr. DaeJan Grigsby 
Email: daejan.grigsby@hccs.edu 
Phone: 713-718-7775