BIOLOGY I

Course Description

Biology I and Biology II are separate courses. It is NOT necessary to take Biology I in order to take Biology II, or vice versa. Taking both is necessary to master concepts in high school level biology. Both courses include lecture, demonstration, investigation and lab work. Biology 1 investigates the world around us; Biology II, the world within us.

Major Topics

CELLULAR BASIS OF LIFE

cytology, microscope, DNA & RNA, protein synthesis, mitosis, meiosis

KINGDOMS OF LIFE

viruses, bacteria, algae, protozoans, fungi, sponges, cnidarians, flatworms, roundworms, rotifers, mollusks, segmented worms, echinoderms, arthropods, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals

GENETICS

heredity, genetic diseases, probability, mutation, cancer, genetic engineering

EVOLUTION & INTELLIGENT DESIGN Note: After studying the cell, genetics, and the kingdoms of life, we analyzing the evidence for and against evolution from a scientific viewpoint. The textbook presents a pro-Darwinian view of biology. Darwin on Trial and the instructor’s own notes from outside sources (including molecular biologist Michael Behe’s Darwin’s Black Box) offer a counterpoint. The goal here is not to argue for or against evolutionary theory, but to give the student critical thinking skills.

Course Highlights

learning how to use a microscope
6 Labs (and smaller demonstrations), including dissections
Field Trip: New Orleans Aquarium & Insectarium or Audubon Zoo
exposure to a large collection of specimens; field work collecting specimens
animal husbandry (students raise earthworms, chicks, crawfish, and mealworms)