UMUC-Europe Syllabus

BIOL 160 Human Biology (3) (Science background is not required.) A general introduction to human structure, functions, genetics, evolution, and ecology. The human organism is examined from the basic cellular level and genetics, through organ systems, to interaction with the outside world. Pertinent health topics are also discussed. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BIOL 160 or GNSC 160.

Course Goals/Objectives:

After completing this course, students should be able to do the following: * describe the organizational hierarchy of the human organism from the level of subatomic particles to that of organ systems * describe the structure of cells and the functions of cell organelles * understand the cell cycle, its control, and compare and contrast mitosis and meiosis * describe the basic anatomy and physiology of the male and female human reproductive systems, including human conception and development * use Mendel's laws of inheritance to solve genetics problems * define homeostasis and give concrete examples of homeostasis from several human organ systems * outline the basic structure of an ecological community and give concrete examples of human interactions with the environment, both locally and globally

Course Introduction:

This course is an introductory study of the fundamental concepts of biology by examining their implications for the human organism. We will begin with a study of the basic principles of chemistry and molecules, which serve as the basis for the structure and function of human beings. The basic living unit of humans, the cell, will next be examined, with respect to its roles in using and generating energy, maintaining homeostasis, and both cellular and human reproduction. The role of cells and DNA in inheritance and in determining traits, diseases, and disorders will then be discussed. The development of the human organism will be discussed, spanning from fertilization to the aging process. Each of the major organ systems in human beings will be analyzed with respect to their function and malfunction, role in human reproduction, and the consequences to each of human interactions with their environment.

Grading Information and Criteria:

Grades in this course will be determined as follows: 15% Class Participation 25% Homework Activities 30% Midterm Exam 30% Final Exam The grading scale in this course will be determined as follows: A = 90%-100% B = 80%-89% C = 70%-79% D = 60%-69% F = 0%-59%

Other Information:

None

Project Descriptions:

Homework Activities Weekly homework assignments are due in this course which reinforce the topics covered in the readings, lectures, and class discussions. These assignments can take many forms, including problem solving, graphing and quantitative reasoning activities, interpreting scientific data and information, short answer and short essay questions, sketching diagrams and figures, designing and/or constructing models, performing hands-on activities, making observations of nature, and searching for and evaluating information on the internet. Exams A midterm and final exam are required in this course. These exams will include the topics and skills covered in the required readings, homework activities, lectures, and class discussions.

Academic Policies:

Cases of plagiarism are handled consistent with current UMUC guidelines. See the UMUC policies at the following URL: http://www.umuc.edu/policy/

Course Schedule:

Session 1 Topics: Introduction to Human Biology & The Scientific Method Session 2 Topics: The Principles of Chemistry Session 3 Topics: Cell Structure & Function Session 4 Topics: Metabolism & Homeostasis Session 5 Topics: Cell Reproduction (Mitosis & Cytokinesis) Session 6 Topics: Human Reproduction (Meiosis & the Reproductive System) Session 7 Topics: Mendelian Genetics Session 8 Topics: Organ Systems: Function & Dysfunction I Session 9 Topics: Organ Systems: Function & Dysfunction II Session 10 Topics: Organ Systems: Function & Dysfunction III Session 11 Topics: Organ Systems: Function & Dysfunction IV Session 12 Topics: Organ Systems: Function & Dysfunction V Session 13 Topics: Development & Aging Session 14 Topics: Basic Ecology & Human Implications Session 15 Review for Final Session 16 Final Examination