COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND APPLIED ARTS OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

School of Nursing, Health and Environmental Sciences DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL & LIFE SCIENCES
Transforming Lives, Transforming Communities, Transforming the Nation One Student at a Time BIOL 090- INTRODUCTION TO CONCEPTS OF BIOLOGY 1

PHILOSOPHY: This course seeks to introduce students to ideas, theories, principles and concepts relevant to the field of Biology. The knowledge gained from this course provides students with a foundational awareness of biology which will be needed if students opt to pursue various fields under the SONHES umbrella, as well as other fields such as psychology. VISION: To be a student-centered, dynamic and innovative, world-class and multi-campus college, promoting excellence in teaching and learning, serving diverse communities and producing lifelong learners who can compete globally. MISSION: To be the premier educational institution in: providing high quality, affordable and accessible education programmes serving the needs of business, industry and the diverse campus communities and facilitation the personal and professional development of its students, faculty and staff. The Institutions motto Transforming Lives, Transforming Communities, Transforming the Nation One Student at a Time. is embodied in our Core Curriculum as well as Programme Curriculum through ten competencies which students will understand, practice and demonstrate upon successful completion of their programmes of study at the College. These competencies are as follows:

Course Code: Course Title: Number of Credits: Semester: Track: Co-requisites: Prerequisite: Prerequisite for: Number of Contact Hours: Delivery:

BIOL 090 Introduction to Concepts in Biology 1 3

None None 45 Learning is accomplished through series of lectures and practical experiences with an emphasis on group work, manipulation and scientific reporting skills

Instructor: Office: Office Hours: Telephone:

1 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Programme Curriculum Competencies KNOWLEDGE A clear understanding of the principles and concepts of related theories and models of the particular discipline and the relationship to other disciplines through study, education and experience. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION The ability to accurately transfer thoughts and meaning through interpersonal skills using appropriate registers. ANALYTICAL ABILITY The ability to systematically gather relevant data and make appropriate deductions, inferences and connections with a view to judiciously solve problems. TECHNOLOGICAL EXPERTISE Utilization of current tools and techniques with the view to achieving efficiency and improving functionality. COLLABORATION Proficiency in working cohesively with other stakeholders with the view to achieving common goals. CREATIVITY The ability to explore issues and generate solutions from an innovative perspective. PROFESSIONALISM A life-long engagement in reflective, moral, ethical and best practices in all spheres. DIVERSITY The ability to recognize and respect uniqueness, worth and dignity of others whilst developing ones own belief system. SOCIAL AND GLOBAL RESPONSIBILITY A conscientious approach that reflects social and global accountability, commitment, caring and integrity. ENTREPRENEURSHIP The ability to recognize and take advantage of legitimate opportunities for innovation and social improvement, whilst accepting the related risks.

2 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Course Code: Course Title: Number of Credits: Semester: Track: Co-requisites: Prerequisite: Prerequisite for: Number of Contact Hours: Delivery:

BIOL 090 Introduction to Concepts in Biology 1 3

None None 45 Learning is accomplished through series of lectures and practical experiences with an emphasis on group work, manipulation and scientific reporting skills

Instructor: Office: Office Hours: Telephone: Email:

nbovell@costaatt.edu.tt

COURSE DESCRIPTION AND GOAL: This course aims to give the under-prepared student basic knowledge of key biological principles. Laboratory and field work will be used in conjunction with lectures and tutorials to enable students to appreciate and understand the world of biology. The competencies addressed in this course at the Immersion and Intermediate levels are Knowledge, Effective Communication, Analytical Ability, Collaboration and Creativity. Competencies which are expected to be addressed solely at the Immersion level are Technological Expertise and Social and Global Responsibility. Specific objectives for this course are listed by Competency: General Objectives for Introduction to Concepts in Biology I KNOWLEDGE
Entry level: Understands the content of various disciplines, the generalizations about content and the modes and methods of inquiry

Students should be able to: K1. Comprehend the importance for grouping organisms. K2. Describe homeostasis. K3. Outline structures of cells. K4. Describe fundamental ecological principles. K5. Outline respiration and photosynthesis. K6. Outline mitosis and meiosis. K7. Relate the structure of selected plant tissues, and animal organ-systems and tissues to their functions. K8. Identify macronutrients. K9. Identify movement.

3 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Immersion level: Demonstrates in-depth understanding of the relevant and significant ideas across disciplines

Students should be able to: K10. Apply concept of living and non-living to all matter. K11. Relate the role of movement of molecules to its importance in the sustainability of life. ANALYTICAL ABILITY
Entry level: Observes accurately and draw reasonable inferences from observations

Students should be able to: A1. Classify living organisms. A2. Interpret Ecological Pyramids COLLABORATION
Immersion level: Initiates cooperative learning activities by seeking out others for assistance and for building projects together and acts as an active facilitator

C1. C2.

Students should be able to: Use in-class investigations and examples to identify principles taught Compare examples of ecological principles by carrying out group research

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
Immersion level: Uses communication processes purposefully to make meaning in different disciplinary contexts

Students should be able to EC1. Effectively convey opinions, thoughts, queries and findings for all class activities TECHNOLOGICAL EXPERTISE
Entry level: Uses basic technology proficiently and understands its potential as a learning tool

Students should be able to: TE1. Conduct simple laboratory tests and demonstrate ideas with the use of technology

4 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

LABORATORY EXERCISES: Students are also required to conduct five (5) laboratory exercises, and a lab final, during three (3) laboratory meetings. Dates and times of the laboratory meetings will be indicated on the Week at A Glance and either confirmed or amended during the lecture. A copy of the laboratory manual is provided on-line, within the eclassroom environment. In order to complete laboratory exercise/final, the following items are required: A laboratory coat Closed toe shoes Long pants It is also recommended that long, hanging hair should be tied in a bun or position where it is no longer hanging past the shoulders. Students who arrive at laboratory meetings more than 15 minutes late may be counted as absent and not be permitted to conduct that lab. Please read the laboratory safety rules at the front of your manual. It is very likely that your laboratory lecturer will be different from your class lecturer. Should you have any questions concerning laboratory exercises/meetings, please ask your class lecturer at the earliest possible convenience. FIELD TRIPS: Students are also required to perform at least one field exercise during this course. The type of exercise(s), cost, and location can be amended by the class lecturer at the beginning of the course. Should the exercise require a field trip to a specific environment/habitat, transportation will be provided free of charge, however, additional costs incurred upon entering and viewing the environment/habitat is the responsibility of the student. Should you have any questions concerning the field trip exercises(s), please ask your class lecturer at the earliest possible convenience.

5 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

WEEKLY CLASS SCHEDULE AND TEACHING OBJECTIVES

Key: Competency K= Knowledge A = Analytical Ability Week 1, 2 Unit Unit 1 Organization of Life Levels El = Entry Im = Immersion Competency K1, K10, A1 Level Im

EC= Effective Communication C= Collaboration Content

TE= Technological Expertise

Life activities Levels of biological organization Cell structure and function Cell specialization Homeostatic principles

Specific Objectives and Activities Describe the characteristics of life

Link the various levels of biological organization to the size and complexity of living organisms on the planet Compare the structures of plant and animal cells with the aid of annotated diagrams Explain the importance of cell specialization at both the intracellular and organism levels Explain the general principles of homeostatic regulation Describe examples of positive and negative feedback mechanisms

K1, K10, A1

Im

K7

El

K1, K3, K7

El

K2

El

K2

El

6 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Activities: Invent a poem, song or rap which describes the activities that characterize life Design a concept map to show in outline how homeostatic principles operate Use a graphic organizer to link the various levels of biological organization

EC1

El

A1, EC1

El

EC1

El

Week 3, 4

Unit Unit 2 The Living Environment

Content Feeding relationships Symbiotic relationships Biogeochemical cycles Environmental factors

Specific Objectives and Activities Identify the relative positions of producers, consumers and decomposers in a food chain Identify food chains in selected aquatic and terrestrial habitats Construct food webs using data on feeding relationships between organisms in selected habitats Distinguish between pyramids of number, biomass and energy Describe examples of symbiotic relationships between organisms Explain why energy flows one way through an ecosystem while materials may cycle Describe, with the aid of diagrams, the following biogeochemical cycles; water, nitrogen, carbon

Competency K4

Level El

K4, C2

El

Factors affecting population growth Humans in the environment Adaptations of plants and animals to selected habitats

K4, C2

El

K4, A2

El

Factors affecting population density

K4

El

K4

El

K4

El

7 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Distinguish between the following pairs of terms; biotic/abiotic factors, environment/ecosystem, habitat/niche, population/community Discuss the importance of the physical environment to living organisms and the adaptations of plants and animals to selected habitats Evaluate the extent to which human populations are subject to the same constraints as other natural populations Assess the degree to which human activities have affected the physical as well as the living environment and recommend actions which may be taken to reverse or reduce the effects of these activities

K4

El

K4, C2

El

K4, C2

El

K4, C2

El

Activities: Field visit to an ecosystem or tree study Students would also be required to: a) Present an oral report of the field trip/ field study using power point b) Present a written report which integrates learning objectives from Unit 2 with the information relating to the field trip/field study

A2, C2, EC1

El

A2, C2, EC1

El

8 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

5 Week 6, 7, 8 Unit Unit 3 Life Processes: Nutrition, Transport & Respiration

MIDTEM ASSESSMENT 1 UNITS 1 & 2 (10%)

Content Autotrophic nutrition. Photosynthesis Heterotrophic nutrition

Specific Objectives and Activities Distinguish between autotrophic and heterotrophic modes of nutrition Describe, in outline, the process of photosynthesis Relate the structure of a green leaf to its role in photosynthesis Describe the structure and function of the human alimentary canal Perform food tests to determine the presence of macronutrients in selected human foods Discuss the role of enzymes in the digestion of food Evaluate the need for modifications to the basic balanced diet for special human populations Relate the structure of the human circulatory system to its role in transport Relate the structures of the xylem and phloem in flowering plants to their roles in transport Compare aerobic and anaerobic respiration

Competency K5

Level El

K5

El

Transport systems in mammals and flowering plants Respiration. Aerobic/Anaerobic Respiratory systems in humans

K5, K7

El

K7

El

K8, C1

El

K7, K8

El

K7

El

K7

El

K7

El

K5

El

9 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Use diagrams to explain the structure and function of the human respiratory system

K7

El

Activities: Test leaves for the end products of photosynthesis Draw representative leaves Perform simple food tests Investigate the effect of exercise on breathing and heart rates Manipulate the rate of transpiration in plant tissue Specific Objectives and Activities

K5, C1, EC1, TE1 K5, C1 K8, C1, EC1, TE1 K7, C1

El

El El

El

K7, C1

El

Week 9 10, 11

Unit

Content

Competency

Level

MIDTEM ASSESSMENT 2 UNIT 3 (10%)

Unit 4 Support & Movement

Supportive tissues; cartilage and bone Human skeleton

Use a diagram to describe the main parts of the human skeletal system Describe the roles of bones, muscles and joints in movement Describe the role of antagonistic muscle pairs in movement of the human arm at the elbow joint Discuss the importance of locomotion in animals

K7

El

Skeletal muscle Types of movement Locomotion

K7

El

K7

El

K7, K9

El

10 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Discuss the types of movement needed by flowering plants K7, C1 El

Activities: Use the model to observe and describe the various parts of the human skeleton Observe the microscopic structure of muscle tissue, bone and cartilage Use the microscope to observe the structure of supportive tissues in the stem of a flowering plant Build a 3D model of the human arm to show the structures involved in movement at the elbow joint Present a slide show to illustrate the various types of movement shown by flowering plants Specific Objectives and Activities Relate the structures of plant and animal cells to their general functions

K7, C1, TE1

El

K7, C1, TE1

El

EC1

El

EC1

El

Week 12

Unit Unit 5 The Foundations of Life, Part 1

Content Review of cell structure and function Movement of materials across cell membranes Cell and nuclear division

Competency K3

Level El

Distinguish among a range of cell types from pictures and diagrams Outline the processes by which cells reproduce: mitosis and meiosis Design investigations to illustrate osmosis and diffusion

K1, K3, A1

El

K6

El

K11

Im

11 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Activities: Investigate osmosis in plant tissues Investigate diffusion of solids, liquids and gases

K11, C1, EC1 K11, C1, EC1

Im

Im

13

MIDTEM ASSESSMENT 3 UNIT 4 & 5 (10%) Project Presentation Final Exam Review
FINAL EXAM (40%)

14 15 16

12 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

For this course, the following grading scheme will be used: Grading system used in Natural Science Department Mark Range 90 100 85 - 89 80 - 84 75 79 70 - 74 65 - 69 60 - 64 0 - 59 Definitions Excellent Very good Good Satisfactory Average Below average Minimum passing grade Fail Grade A B+ B C+ C D+ D F GPA 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.0

The mark allocation for this course will be broken down as follows: Mark Allocation system used for Introduction to Concepts in Biology I 3 In-course exams at 10% each See Appendix I for Tables of Specification Project(s) See Appendix II for Rubric Laboratory Assignments Final Examination See Appendix I for Table of Specification 30 % 20 % 10% 40 %

13 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

STATEMENT ON ACADEMIC DISHONESTY Academic dishonesty is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Cheating, forgery, plagiarism and collusion in dishonest acts undermine the Colleges educational mission and the students personal and intellectual growth. COSTATT students are expected to bear individual responsibility for their work and to uphold the ideal of academic Integrity. Any Student who attempts to compromise the academic process will be sanctioned. COSTAATT Academic, Integrity and Honesty Policies and Procedures Handbook.

A Quick Note on Citation Plagiarism is the representation of someone elses ideas or words as ones own. It is a serious academic offence that includes: - Presenting another persons paper or ideas as original, submitting borrowed, purchased, ghost-written papers and documents downloaded from internet sites. - Extensive paraphrasing - Flagrant failure to properly cite sources. This includes uncited ideas, quotations and/ or words. Students are expected to implement the methods taught in COMM117, COMM118 and LIBS130and should be cognizant of the fact that credit will not be given for work found to be plagiarized. Repeated incidents of plagiarism will result in a failing grade and/or academic sanction. COSTAATT requires students to adhere to the APA (American Psychology Association) citation standards that require in text citation and a reference list. Details of these requirements are as follows: In text citation (Quotes/Paraphrasing) o Direct quotation Use quotation marks and include page numbers (when quoting books, journals and periodicals) or paragraph number (para. when quoting online sources. A quotation of 40 or more words should be formatted as a freestanding, indented block of text without quotation marks. o Indirect quotation/paraphrasing o Citations from a secondary source References list At the end of an assignment, the full bibliographic information for each source cited in text should be provided. Do not use footnotes References must be listed in alphabetical order by author and should use the hanging indent format. o Books / Reports / DVDs Each reference should include four elements: Author/Editor/Producer Date Title Publication Information Periodicals -Serials or periodicals are resources published on a regular basis, such as journals, magazines and newspapers. The elements to be included are: Author(s) Date Title of article
14 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Title of Periodical Volume, Issue and Page numbers Webpages (unpublished and informally published work) Reference to web page should include the following elements : Author Date Title Retrieval statement (URL) ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES Text books students should walk with their text books to class and to labs.

TEXTBOOKS:
RECOMMENDED TEXT:
Biology for CSEC Linda Atwaroo-Ali

REFERENCE TEXTS:
1. Biology for CSEC Linda Atwaroo-Ali

AUDIO-VISUAL RESOURCES: Multimedia Projector, Laptop with Microsoft Office Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Multimedia Player DVD drive, USB ports and Speakers, Molecular Modeling Kits. COURSE COORDINATOR: Mr. Nyron Bovell Senior Lecturer COSTAATT Email: nbovell@costaatt.edu.tt SCIENCE FOUNDATIONS COORDINATOR: Ms. Leone De Souza Senior Lecturer COSTAATT Email: ldesouza@costaatt.edu.tt DEPARTMENT CHAIR: Ms. Delamae Wilson Chair: Natural & Life Sciences Department COSTAATT Email: DWilson@costaatt.edu.tt

15 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Appendix ITables of Specification for Biol. 090 Midterms and Final Examinations Table of Specification for BIOL. 090 Midterm I- 10%
Item type MCQ/Matching Short answer Competency tested Knowledge Knowledge/ Analytical Ability Level El Im Percentage Weighting 65% 35%

Table of Specification for BIOL. 090 Midterm II- 10%

Item type MCQ/Matching Short answer Essay

Competency tested Knowledge Knowledge Knowledge/ Technological Expertise

Level El El Im

Percentage Weighting 40% 40% 20 %

Table of Specification for BIOL. 090 Midterm III- 10%

Item type MCQ/Matching Short answer Essay

Competency tested Knowledge Knowledge Knowledge

Level El El El

Percentage Weighting 36% 36% 28%

Table of Specification for BIOL. 090 Final Examination- 40%

Level El El El El Im

Item type MCQ Short answer

Competency tested Knowledge Knowledge Analytical Ability Analytical ability Technological Expertise

Percentage Weighting 20% 30% 20% 15% 15% 16

Essay

BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I

Appendix IIRubric for Projects Project Description: The project for BIOL. 090 may differ by semester in terms of topic and type as directed by the lecturer. Since an outing is required in most instances, an additional fee may be required based on the destination of the outing. The following rubric, however, should be used to guide grading in each instance.

Rubric for BIOL. 090 Project- 20%

COMPETENCY EXCELLENT (8-10) Students show clear evidence of having read extensively on the project topic by the incorporation of as many accurate facts as appropriate. Students include relevant information on the topic in their project. They draw logical and justified conclusions as directed. All group members are involved in the process of completing the project. The assignment is submitted on or before the deadline. The main point of the project is clearly brought out in the presentation. The project conforms to the guidelines given in the instructions. PERFORMANCE RANKING AVERAGE (5-7) Students show evidence of having done some reading on the project topic by the incorporation of few accurate facts. Students include some relevant information on the topic in their project. They draw logical conclusions as directed, with little justification. Most group members are involved in the process of completing the project. The assignment is submitted on or before the deadline. The main point of the project is unclear. The project conforms to the guidelines given in the instructions. POOR (0-4) Students show little evidence of having read extensively on the project topic. Accurate facts are not included. Students include little relevant information on the topic in their project. They draw illogical or unjustified conclusions. Few group members are involved in the process of completing the project. The assignment is not submitted on or before the deadline. The main point of the project is very vague. The project does not conform to the guidelines given in the instructions.

KNOWLEDGE (25%)

ANALYTICAL ABILITY (35%)

COLLABORATION (20%)

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION (20%)

17 BIOL 090- Introduction to Concepts in Biology I