BIOL 1408 Introductory Biology—Unity of Life Syllabus

Semester: Spring 2024

74107  Lec      013      RVS    RVSA 2267    W        9:00am- 11:50am       

            Lab                  RVS    RVSA 2219    M        9:00am- 11:50am       

Course Description:

Introductory biology course designed for non-science majors who desire a conceptual approach to biological topics. An introduction to the nature of science, the characteristics of life, the molecular and cellular basis of life, genetics, reproduction, and development. An emphasis will be placed on how these topics are related to current issues such as genetic engineering, biotechnology, and problems facing modern society. BIOL 1406 and BIOL 1408 may not both be counted toward graduation.

Skills Requirements:

Reading, writing, and mathematics proficiency as determined by the COMPASS or ASSET test, or by the statewide THEA test, or by providing an official transcript from another college.

Course Rationale:

This course is one of two introductory non-science major classes. This one focuses on the cellular and molecular bases of life and the similarities found among all living things. The course is intended to foster an understanding of biological issues and provide students with the tools to critically analyze biological data and intelligently relate these data to issues in our society such as cloning, genetic engineering, etc.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Course-Level:

Specific skills and competencies expected of students who complete this course include:

• Describe the scientific process as applied in biology
• Describe the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and viruses
• Describe evolution and its mechanisms
• Describe basic inorganic and organic chemistry concepts that underlie the structure and function of cells
• Describe energy transformations in organisms including photosynthesis and cellular respiration
• Describe the structure and function of DNA in reproduction and protein synthesis, and how DNA underlies the major patterns seen in the study of heredity
• Describe various applications of genetics to technology

General Education:

As a Core Curriculum course, students completing this course will demonstrate competence in:

• Critical Thinking - Gathering, analyzing, synthesizing, evaluating and applying information. 
• Interpersonal Skills - Interacting collaboratively to achieve common goals.
• Quantitative and Empirical Reasoning - Applying mathematical, logical and scientific principles and methods.
• Written, Oral and Visual Communication - Communicating effectively, adapting to purpose, structure, audience, and medium.

Departmental Common Course Objectives:

The ACC Biology Department has specified the content for this course in the departmental common course objectives. The departmental objectives are located at http://sites.austincc.edu/biology/common-course-objectives/.  You are responsible for and will be tested on all of the materials specified in the Common Course objectives.

Required Materials:

The Lab manual is 12th edition of the Lab Manual for Introductory Biology: Unity of Life (Biology 1408), by Muzos. 

BIOL 1408 Lab Manual I will put a link to the lab manual on Black Board for you.

The following safety equipment is required:

Safety eyewear that meets Z87.1 standards

Closed-toed shoes

Instructional Methodology: The course will be taught in the classroom as a lecture/lab combination.  The lecture meets once a week (Thursdays) and the lab is on Tuesdays.  The course objectives will be emphasized.  Visual Aids such as Mind Tap animations from Star, power point, videos, and the chalk board will be utilized to help visual learners learn the material.  To help the auditory learners the visuals will be explained, and lectures will inform them on practical employment utilization of topics discussed in class.  The biology lab helps the kinesthetic learners assimilate the objectives better.  Students will be given opportunities to participate in active learning class discussions, group work, to enrich the class to collaboratively learn the course objectives.  Exams (multiple choice, matching, fill in the blank, short answer and Essay), Lab quizzes will be used to assess the student’s comprehension of the course objectives.  Bring your book to class & bring your book and copy of the lab manual to Lab. After lecture do Chapter quizzes blackboard or on your web site.

Open Lab Policies:  

         Our lab is only available during the classes scheduled lab time.  If you need    

         http://www.austincc.edu/support-and-services/tutoring-and-academic-help

Artificial Intelligence Usage Statement:

Intellectual honesty is vital to an academic community and for my fair evaluation of your work.  All work submitted in this course must be your own, completed in accordance with the College’s academic regulations.  You may not engage in unauthorized collaboration or make use of Chat GPT or other AI composition software (for any of your work you submit/turn in for your grade for this course)

Grading System:

          The final grade will be based on:  60% Average of 4 Exams

                                                    40% Average of 4 Lab Exams

Final course grades will follow the structure as follows:

            A=  100-90%                         

            B=   89-80%               D=  69-60%

            C=   79-70%               F=   59% and below

Due to ACC policies concerning the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), instructors cannot post grades or call or e-mail students with information about their grades.  Grades will be posted on the Blackboard site for the class. In Blackboard, a student can only see his/her own grade.

STRUCTURE OF EXAMS

Exams will contain questions from lectures, handouts, labs and assigned readings.  They will have multiple choice, matching, fill in the blank, short answer and Essay.  No exams will be given early for any reason.  You are required to take all tests at the scheduled time.  You will need to bring your own green Scantrons for the multiple-choice part of the exam.

REQUIRED EXAMS

Tentative Exam Schedule

1st Exam- February 15, 2024

2nd Exam- March 7, 2024

3rd Exam- April 3, 2024

4th Exam- May 9, 2024

Missed exam policy 

You can miss one lecture exam and make it up.  Use this wisely because you will not be able to make up two exams, regardless of your reasons.  Makeup exams will be given in the RRC Testing Center. You must schedule and take the makeup exam within one week of the original test deadline. Makeup exams will be primarily written in nature (fill-in-the-blanks, short answer and essay questions).  There are no make up exams for exam #4  the final, and the Lab Practicals 1 & 2.

In any case, if you are not able to come to an exam, you must inform me of that fact before the time of the exam. An email to me is sufficient. If a make-up exam is in order, you must make plans with me for the taking of the exam within 6 days after the regularly scheduled exam. Failure to either inform me or to make plans for the make-up will result

in a 0 for that exam.  You can only make up 1 exam.  There are no Makeup Exams for  the Exam #4.   

When you walk in for an exam you will need to place your belongings on the floor against the wall in the front of the class.  You may not talk during a test; you may not look through your bag; you may not leave the room and come back and complete the exam; you may not look on your neighbor’s answer sheet.  Any student caught in any form of scholastic dishonesty shall be recommended for maximum penalty allowed by ACC policy.  You may consult the student handbook for more information regarding academic dishonesty policies followed by the college. 

Lab participation and clean-up consists of: 

• Arriving on time with your lab manual, lab notebook, goggles, and closed toed shoes
• Fully participate during lab and stay until your group finishes the exercise and completes all clean-up activities
• Check-out with your instructor before leaving class so I can make sure your lab notebook is up-to date and that your lab station has been cleaned up

After lab is over, finish answering the questions in the results section and, complete calculations if you were not able to complete them during lab.  The lab notebook will be due the following lab meeting. 

Critical Reading & Student Presentations

      Students will choose and research two topics on a specific application or current             affair that relates to cellular and molecular biology.  Students may present their topics to the class individually.  Topics will be taken from the suggested topics that the class votes on in the first week of classes from the ACC Biology Department’s “BIOL 1408 Core Topics and Suggested Topics for Applications, Current Issues, and Problems facing Society.”   See emailed document with more details and due dates. 

TIMELY RETURN OF PAPERS: 

            Graded exams and lab reports will be returned within one week but if someone       

           takes a makeup then they will be passed out within 2 weeks.

COURSE POLICIES

In the interest of equality and fairness, all students are required to follow the policies and deadlines described in this syllabus.  Please do not ask for exceptions, as they will not be granted.  The existing policies and deadlines make reasonable allowance for emergencies that may arise during the semester.

Attendance will be taken in lecture and lab.  Regular and punctual class and laboratory

            attendance is expected of all students. If attendance or compliance with other course

            policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class.

    “I expect you to be prepared for each lecture and lab class and to participate in all 

     class activities. You should expect to spend at least 3-4 hours outside of class   

     for every hour spent in class to pass the course. This means 18 to 24 hours a

     week just to pass the course. Most students need more.”

     Absences from 4 or more classes will result in being dropped from the course.  Students    

     are ultimately responsible for dropping the class should they decide to stop attending.  It is

     assumed that your registration for this class at this particular time precludes any conflicts

     with work or family responsibilities.  Therefore, work schedule or family responsibilities

     will not be accepted as excuses for missed tests, or classes.  Do not schedule doctor

     appointments or trips to conflict with this class.  You are responsible for all assignments

     and information whether you are present or not. It is your responsibility to get any

     material or information from other students that you did not receive due to being absent.    

 “Regular and punctual class and laboratory attendance is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class.”

 “Regular and timely class participation in discussions and completion of work is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class.”

 If classes are cancelled because of weather, pandemic, or other emergencies:

“The student is responsible for communicating with their professor during the closure and completing any assignments or other activities designated by their professor.”

CLASS PARTICIPATION EXPECTATIONS

Students are expected to have read the assigned reading before class and to come prepared to discuss the topic for the day.  Students are expected to participate in every class.  Students are expected to participate in class, take the quizzes, in class activities during class time.  Those who do not participate in the classes and miss the quizzes will receive zeros.  There will be no make ups. 

To pass the course (with a grade of 70% C), you should expect to spend at least 3 hours outside of class for every hour spent in class.  For this class, that means a minimum of 15 hours of quality, undisturbed study time outside of class per week to complete lab reports, homework assignments, read the chapters, study the material and prepare for exams and practicals. 

Success (making good grades) in this course is highly correlated to attending class.  Study groups are an excellent way for preparing for this class and exams.  You need to read the assigned readings and Labs before class and come prepared to discuss the topics.  Tardiness is a disruption to the class so, please be on time. 

Classroom behavior:

Private, personal chats during class are not allowed.  Students who persist in private conversations not pertinent to the class will be asked to leave the room.  If you have specific questions about your grades you will need to come to my office hours so we can discuss them privately.  No food or drink is allowed in the classroom or laboratory.  Behavior during laboratory work is crucial since, students will be handling materials that are potentially harmful.  Absolutely no “clowning around” will be tolerated during lab.  If your instructor suspects that you might not be taking laboratory safety seriously, you will be kicked out of the lab.  Cellular Phones and Pagers (music MP3, I Touch, Nano, apple devices except for computers) are to be turned off during class and lab.  No head phones.

WITHDRAWALS

            “It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The Final Withdrawal Date for this semester is April 22, 2024.  The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a “W”) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.”

Students who enroll for the third or subsequent time in a course taken since Fall 2002, may be charged a higher tuition rate for that course.

Students who exit the course before the Official Reporting Date are considered to

have “dropped” the course. Dropped courses are not considered withdrawals and

are not posted on the student transcript and thus not affected by the Texas Six Drop

Rule. Students who exit the course after the Official Reporting Date and before or

on the Final Withdrawal Date are considered to have “withdrawn” from the course

thus receive a “W” on their transcript and are affected by the Texas Six Drop rule.

State law permits students to withdraw from no more than six courses during their entire undergraduate career at Texas public colleges or universities. With certain exceptions, all course withdrawals automatically count towards this limit. Details regarding this policy can be found in the ACC college catalog.

The DROP date (last day to witout a “W” is January 31, 2024. 

The FINAL WITHDRAWAL date is April 22, 2024.

Students who exit the course before the Official Reporting Date are considered to have “dropped” the course. Dropped courses are not considered withdrawals and are not posted on the student transcript and thus not affected by the Texas Six Drop Rule.  Students who exit the course after the Official Reporting Date and before or on the Final Withdrawal Date are considered to have “withdrawn” from the course thus receive a “W” on their transcript and are affected by the Texas Six Drop rule.  

     Students may be dropped from the class for not having the prerequisites of skills G
     Reading, writing, and math, missing 4 or more classes, not completing safety training

     (including the safety contract on first day of in person lab) by August 27, 2021, violating  

     safety policy, not signing acknowledgement of receipt of syllabus by August 27, 2021.  

Instructors may withdraw students from their courses through the Final Withdrawal Date. Students cannot withdraw after the Final Withdrawal Date, nor should instructors withdraw them after that date as a rule. In exceptional circumstances, such as student misbehavior (disruptive behavior, cheating, violating lab safety rules) or compelling compassionate reasons (such as natural disasters or serious illnesses), an instructor can withdraw a student after the Final Withdrawal Date--

Students may withdraw from one or more courses prior to the withdrawal deadline by submitting a request form to Admissions and Records. Withdrawal deadlines are published in the academic calendar. Withdrawal courses appear on the student’s record with a grade of W. Until a student is officially withdrawn, the student remains on the class roll and may receive a grade of F for the course.

If you decide to drop this class, it is your responsibility to protect your academic record by withdrawing no later than April 22, 2024 (final Withdrawal date).  It is also your responsibility to verify a course withdrawal before the Final Withdrawal Date.  If you stop attending class and do not withdraw yourself from the class you will end up with a grade of F for the semester.

Six Drop Rule: 

Texas Education Code Section 51.907 mandates that all students who enroll as first time freshmen at a Texas public institution of higher education in Fall 2007 or later may not drop more than six courses during their academic career.  Information about this rule is located at:  http://www.austincc.edu/business/documents/SixWdraft.pdf   and http://www.austincc.edu/handbook/acaguide2.php

Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in fall 2007 or later at any Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a W) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college career. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are encouraged to carefully select courses; contact an advisor or counselor for assistance.

Rule of Three: 

Students are charged a higher tuition rate for courses they repeat for the third or more time.  This is generally referred to as the “Rule of Three”.  Information about this rule is located at:   http://www.austincc.edu/support/admissions/thirdattempt/index.php  and http://www.austincc.edu/support/admissions/thirdattempt/faqs.pdf

REINSTATEMENT PROCEDURES

            Reinstatement procedures will follow those outlined in the current ACC General

Catalog.

INCOMPLETES

            “An incomplete (grade of "I") will only be given for extenuating circumstances.  What constitutes “extenuating circumstances” is left to the instructor’s discretion.  If a grade of I is given, the remaining course work must be completed by a date set by the student and professor.  This date may not be later than two weeks prior to the end of the following semester.  A grade of I also requires completion and submission of the Incomplete Grade form, to be signed by the faculty member (and student if possible) and submitted to the department chair.

Students may request an Incomplete from their faculty member if they believe circumstances warrant.  The faculty member will determine whether the Incomplete is appropriate to award or not.  The following processes must be followed when awarding a student an I grade. 

1.      Prior to the end of the semester in which the “I” is to be awarded, the student must meet with the instructor to determine the assignments and exams that must be completed prior to the deadline date.  This meeting can occur virtually or in person.  The instructor should complete the Report of Incomplete Grade form.

2.      The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student.  The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement.  A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.   

3.      The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above.  This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.  

4.      Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.  

5.      When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F. 

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an “F.”  Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline is not frequently granted.”

 Incompletes will not be given without satisfactory explanation and completion of at least 2/3 of the course work with a grade of 70 or higher.  Incompletes are only given to student that have a compelling reason for the extension and will need to provide documentation of that reason.  Students will have to finish the course requirements on their own.  You request an incomplete, with written documentation.  You provide all documentation and sign the required form prior t the last day of class.  Students will get an F if they do not finish the incomplete by the required date!

Student Discipline:

Classroom behavior should support and enhance learning. Behavior that disrupts the learning process will be dealt with appropriately, which may include having the student leave class for the rest of that day. In serious cases, disruptive behavior may lead to a student being withdrawn from the class. ACC's policy on student discipline can be found on the ACC website at http://www.austincc.edu/current/needtoknow/.

LAB POLICIES

ACC Safety and Lab Safety Statements:

Austin Community College is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for study and work. You are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies. Additional information on these can be found at http://www.austincc.edu/ehs. Because some health and safety circumstances are beyond our control, we ask that you become familiar with the Emergency Procedures poster and Campus Safety Plan map in each classroom. Additional information about emergency procedures and how to sign up for ACC Emergency Alerts to be notified in the event of a serious emergency can be found at http://www.austincc.edu/emergency/.

Please note, you are expected to conduct yourself professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual will be dismissed from the day’s activity, may be withdrawn from the class, and/or barred from attending future activities.

You will receive safety training in your lab room prior to working with any hazards such as chemicals or microbes. If you miss in-class safety training and do not make it up as scheduled by your instructor you will be dropped from the class and not reinstated. If you show up on lab days without appropriate safety eyewear and shoes you will not be able to participate in lab or remain in the room during class.

For safety reasons, students should wait outside of the lab room until the instructor is present.  Do not enter the lab room until your instructor arrives.

Lab meets once per week.  The lab schedule lists the lab exercise that will be done each day and the dates of the lab exams.   In lab you will direct your own learning in groups.  Bring required materials to lab (books, handouts, safety equipment).  Students cannot attend lab if you are missing any safety training at the beginning of lab or if you have a policy that

students must wear closed-toed shoes to every lab. There are no makeups for missed labs or           lab practical exams.

Students are to direct their own learning following the directions in the lab manual and are to work in groups of a maximum of 4 students. Students are to bring required materials to lab, books, copy of lab manual exercise/ procedure and questions, and safety equipment. Students cannot attend lab if they miss any safety training at the beginning of lab or if students are not wearing their closed-toed shoes to every lab. There are no makeups for missed labs or lab practical exams.  For safety reasons, students should wait outside of the lab room until the instructor is present.  Do not enter the lab room until your instructor arrives.

     There is a mandatory Biology Lab Safety Rules and Information Training at the first  

      lab meeting.  To attend and complete this course you will have to attend this

      meeting and sign the ACC Biology Department Safety Contract or you will be

      dropped from this class.

Official Biology Department Policy Concerning Student Use of Organisms in the Classroom and Laboratory:

Most ACC biology classes, particularly those with laboratory components, use actual organisms during instruction in addition to images and models. ACC students generally are preparing for real-world careers requiring workers with hands-on experience. These careers include health care, veterinary work, horticultural and agricultural work. Other students plan to transfer to four-year colleges and will be participating in biological research where hands-on experience is equally important.

Organisms used at ACC are fundamental in biology instruction and they are utilized to teach specific skills and knowledge. Their condition and usage varies from course to course. Students will be expected to actively participate in these activities. Students with particular concerns in this matter should consult with their instructor and/or departmental officials before enrolling in a course so that they can know what will be required of them.

Some organisms are observed alive while others are dead and preserved in various ways. Student manipulation of organisms ranges from culturing living organisms to dissecting preserved ones. Some examples include but are not limited to: bacterial culturing for microbiology courses; cat, pig or rat dissection for anatomy courses; skeleton and pelt examination for field biology; and use of frogs in physiology experiments.

Protective eyewear & closed toed shoes are required for lab.

Field Trip Policy

      There are no field trips for this class.

COLLEGE POLICIES

Health & Safety Protocols

Operational areas of ACC campuses and centers are fully open and accessible through all public entrances.  The college encourages its staff, faculty, and students to be mindful of the well-being of all individuals on campus.  If you feel sick, feverish, or unwell, please do not come to campus.

Some important things to remember:

• If you have not done so, ACC encourages all students, faculty, and staff to get vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available throughout the community. Visit Vaccines.gov to find a vaccine location near you.

• Campuses are open to faculty, staff, and students.  The college and its departments and offices may invite internal and external guests to their events and activities, though access is still restricted for external parties seeking to host activities at ACC.  The college’s Appian Health Screening App remains available to everyone who visits campus. This continues to be a good way to check your own health before coming to class or work. 
• If you are experiencing COVID-19-related symptoms, please get a COVID-19 test as soon as possible before returning to an ACC facility.  Testing is now widely available.  To find testing locations near you, click this link.

• If you test positive, please report it on the ACC self-reporting tool located here.

• ACC continues to welcome face masks on campus.  Per CDC guidelines, face masks remain a good way to protect yourself from COVID-19. 
   
• The college asks that we all continue to respect the personal space of others. We are encouraging 3 feet of social distancing.
   
• Please be sure to carry your student, faculty, or staff ID badge at all times while on campus.
   

Because of the everchanging situation, please go to ACC’s Covid website at for the latest updates and guidance.

Statement on Academic Integrity

Austin Community College values academic integrity in the educational process.  Acts of academic dishonesty/misconduct undermine the learning process, present a disadvantage to students who earn credit honestly, and subvert the academic mission of the institution. The potential consequences of fraudulent credentials raise additional concerns for individuals and communities beyond campus who rely on institutions of higher learning to certify students' academic achievements and expect to benefit from the claimed knowledge and skills of their graduates. Students must follow all instructions given by faculty or designated college representatives when taking examinations, placement assessments, tests, quizzes, and evaluations.  Actions constituting scholastic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, collusion, falsifying documents, or the inappropriate use of the college’s information technology resources.  Further information is available at  the Academic Integrity website.   

Penalties for scholastic dishonesty will depend upon the nature of the violation and may range from lowering a grade on one assignment to an “F” in the course and/or expulsion from the college.

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Students at ACC have the same rights and protections under the Constitution of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition and association. As members of the community, students have the right to express their own views, but must also take responsibility for according the same rights to others and not interfere or disrupt the learning environment. Students are entitled to fair treatment, are expected to act consistently with the values of the college, and obey local, state, and federal laws.  Student Rights & Responsibilities

As a student of Austin Community College you are expected to abide by the Student Standards of Conduct. 

Senate Bill 212 and Title IX Reporting Requirements 

Under Senate Bill 212 (SB 212), the faculty and all College employees are required to report any information concerning incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking committed by or against an ACC student or employee. Federal Title IX law and College policy also require reporting incidents of sex- and gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. This means faculty and non-clinical counseling staff cannot keep confidential information about any such incidents that you share with them.

If you would like to talk with someone confidentiality, please contact the District Clinical Counseling Team who can connect you with a clinical counselor on any ACC campus:  (512) 223-2616, or to schedule online, go to the Counseling website.

While students are not required to report, they are encouraged to contact the Compliance Office for resources and options:  Charlene Buckley, District Title IX Officer, (512) 223-7964;  compliance@austincc.edu .

If a student makes a report to a faculty member, the faculty member will contact the District Title IX Officer for follow-up.

Student Complaints

A defined process applies to complaints about an instructor or other college employee. You are encouraged to discuss concerns and complaints with college personnel and should expect a timely and appropriate response. When possible, students should first address their concerns through informal conferences with those immediately involved; formal due process is available when informal resolution cannot be achieved.

Student complaints may include (but are not limited to) issues regarding classroom instruction, college services and offices on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability.

Further information about the complaints process, including the form used to submit complaints, is available at the Student Complaint Procedures website.  

Statement on Privacy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects confidentiality of students’ educational records. Grades cannot be provided by faculty over the phone, by e-mail, or to a fellow student.

Class grades will be posted in Blackboard.

Recording Policy

To ensure compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), student recording of class lectures or other activities is generally prohibited without the explicit written permission of the instructor and notification of other students enrolled in the class section.  Exceptions are made for approved accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Recording of lectures and other class activities may be made by faculty to facilitate instruction, especially for classes taught remotely through BlackBoard Collaborate or another platform.  Participation in such activities implies consent for the student to be recorded during the instructional activity.  Such recordings are intended for educational and academic purposes only.

Safety Statement

Health and safety are of paramount importance in classrooms, laboratories, and field activities. Students are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies.  Emergency Procedures posters and Campus Safety Plans are posted in each classroom and should be reviewed at the beginning of each semester.  All incidents (injuries/illness/fire/property damage/near miss) should be immediately reported to the course instructor. Additional information about safety procedures and how to sign up to be notified in case of an emergency can be found at  the Emergency Management website.  

Everyone is expected to conduct themselves professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual may be immediately dismissed from the day’s activity and will be referred to the Dean of Student Services for disciplinary action.

In the event of disruption of normal classroom activities due to an emergency situation or an outbreak of illness, the format for this course may be modified to enable completion of the course. In that event, students will be provided an addendum to the class syllabus that will supersede the original version.

Campus Carry

The Austin Community College District concealed handgun policy ensures compliance with Section 411.2031 of the Texas Government Code (also known as the Campus Carry Law), while maintaining ACC’s commitment to provide a safe environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors.  Beginning August 1, 2017, individuals who are licensed to carry (LTC) may do so on campus premises except in locations and at activities prohibited by state or federal law, or the college’s concealed handgun policy. 

It is the responsibility of license holders to conceal their handguns at all times.  Persons who see a handgun on campus are asked to contact the ACC Police Department by dialing 512-223-1231.   Please refer to the concealed handgun policy online at the Campus Carry website.

Refer to the concealed handgun policy online at austincc.edu/campuscarry.

IMPORTANT: Biology Lab classes are held in an area designated as an exclusion zone as defined by state law or the college’s concealed handgun policy. Concealed carry is prohibited in exclusion zones. Concealed weapons must be stored in a secure place as defined by college policy prior to entering the classroom, studio, or learning space.

Discrimination Prohibited

The College seeks to maintain an educational environment free from any form of discrimination or harassment including but not limited to discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

Faculty at the College are required to report concerns regarding sexual misconduct (including all forms of sexual harassment and sex and gender-based discrimination) to the Manager of Title IX/Title VI/ADA Compliance.  Licensed clinical counselors are available across the District and serve as confidential resources for students.

Additional information about Title VI, Title IX, and ADA compliance can be found in the ACC Compliance Resource Guide.

Use of ACC email

All College e-mail communication to students will be sent solely to the student’s ACCmail account, with the expectation that such communications will be read in a timely fashion. ACC will send important information and will notify students of any college- related emergencies using this account. Students should only expect to receive email communication from their instructor using this account.  Likewise, students should use their ACCmail account when communicating with instructors and staff.  Information about ACC email accounts, including instructions for accessing it, are available at the ACC Email Q&A website.

Use of the Testing Center

The Testing Centers will allow only limited in person testing and testing time will be limited to the standard class time, typically one and one-half hours.  Specifically, only the following will be allowed in the Testing Centers:

• Student Accessibility Services (SAS) Testing: All approved SAS testing
• Assessments Tests: Institutionally approved assessment tests (e.g., TSIA or TABE)
• Placement Tests: Placement tests (e.g., ALEKS)
• Make-Up Exams (for students who missed the original test): Make-up testing is available for all lecture courses but will be limited to no more than 25% of students enrolled in each section for each of four tests

• Programs incorporating industry certification exams: Such programs (e.g., Microsoft, Adobe, etc.) may utilize the ACC Business Assessment Center for the industry certification exams (BACT) at HLC or RRC

Testing Center Policy 

Under certain circumstances, an instructor may have students take an examination in a testing center. Students using the Academic Testing Center must govern themselves according to the Student Guide for Use of ACC Testing Centers and should read the entire guide before going to take the exam.

To request an exam, one must have:

• ACC Photo ID
• Course Abbreviation (e.g., ENGL)
• Course Number (e.g.,1301)
• Course Synonym (e.g., 10123)
• Course Section (e.g., 005)
• Instructor's Name

Do NOT bring cell phones to the Testing Center. Having your cell phone in the testing room, regardless of whether it is on or off, will revoke your testing privileges for the remainder of the semester. ACC Testing Center policies can be found at http://www.austincc.edu/support-and-services/services-for-students/testing-services/instructional-testing

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The success of our students is paramount, and ACC offers a variety of support services to help, as well as providing numerous opportunities for community engagement and personal growth.

Student Support

ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services.  Information on these campus services and resources is available at the Student Resources website.  A comprehensive array of student support services is available online at the Student Support website.

Student And Instructional Services
ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services. Information on these services and support systems is available at: http://www.austincc.edu/support-and-services

Links to many student services and other information can be found at: http://www.austincc.edu/current-students

ACC Learning Labs provide free tutoring services to all ACC students currently enrolled in the course to be tutored. The tutor schedule for each Learning Lab may be found at:
http://www.autincc.edu/tutor/students/tutoring.php

For help setting up your ACCeID, ACC Gmail, or ACC Blackboard, see a Learning Lab Technician at any ACC Learning Lab.

Student Accessibility Services

Austin Community College (ACC) is committed to providing a supportive, accessible, and inclusive learning environment for all students.  Each campus offers support services for students with documented disabilities. Students with disabilities who need classroom, academic or other accommodations must request them through Student Accessibility Services (SAS).

Students are encouraged to request accommodations prior to the beginning of the semester, otherwise the provision of accommodations may be delayed.  Students who have received accommodations from SAS for this course will provide the instructor with the legal document titled “Faculty Notification Letter” (FNL) through the Accessible Information Management (AIM) portal.

Until the instructor receives the FNL, accommodations should not be provided.  Once the FNL is received, accommodations must be provided.  Accommodations are not retroactive, so it is in the student’s best interest to request their accommodations as soon as possible prior to the beginning of the semester.

Please contact SAS@austincc.edu for more information.

Academic Support

ACC offers academic support services on all of its campuses. These services, which include online tutoring, academic coaching, and supplemental instruction, are free to enrolled ACC students. Tutors are available in a variety of subjects ranging from accounting to pharmacology. Students may receive these services on both a drop-in and referral basis. 

An online tutor request can be made here: Online Tutoring Request

Additional tutoring information can be found here: Online Tutoring

Library Services

ACC Library Services offers both in-person and extensive online services, with research and assignment assistance available in-person during limited hours of service. Although all college services are subject to change, plans include ACC students signing up for study space and use of computers at open libraries, extensive online instruction in classes, online reference assistance 24/7 and reference with ACC faculty librarians. In addition, currently enrolled students, faculty and staff can access Library Services online (also 24/7) via the ACC Library website and by using their ACCeID to access all online materials (ebooks, articles from library databases, and streaming videos). ACC Libraries offer these services in numerous ways such as: "Get Help from a Faculty Librarian: the 24/7 Ask a Librarian chat service," an online form for in-depth research Q and A sessions, one-on-one video appointments, email, and phone (voicemail is monitored regularly).

• Library Website
• Library Information & Services during COVID-19 
• Ask a Librarian 24/7 chat and form 
• Library Hours of Operation by Location 
• Email: library@austincc.edu

Parent and Family Engagement Services

ACC understands how important parent and family support is to every student's college journey. From parents and siblings to step-parents, grandparents, partners, and loved ones, the Parent and Family Engagement Office at ACC is committed to empowering families to support student success. The office provides a family orientation to ACC, free workshops explaining the world of higher education (financial aid, student resources, career and transfer services, etc.), a monthly newsletter full of student success tips, and a website designed to answer family members' frequently asked questions. All students, especially first-generation students, are encouraged to share these resources with their families and invite them to be part of the Riverbat experience. Contact familyengagement@austincc.edu or visit the Parent & Family Engagement website for more information.

Student Organizations

ACC has over seventy student organizations, offering a variety of cultural, academic, vocational, and social opportunities.  They provide a chance to meet with other students who have the same interests, engage in service-learning, participate in intramural sports, gain valuable field experience related to career goals, and much else.  Student Life coordinates many of these activities, and additional information is available at  at the Student Life website.

Personal Support

Resources to support students are available at every campus. To learn more, ask your professor or visit the campus Support Center. All resources and services are free and confidential. Some examples include, among others:

• Food resources including community pantries and bank drives can be found here at the Central Texas Food Bank website.

• Assistance with childcare or utility bills is available at any campus Support Center 
• The Student Emergency Fund can help with unexpected expenses that may cause you to withdraw from one or more classes
• Help with budgeting for college and family life is available through the Student Money Management Office.  
• A full listing of services for student parents is available at the Child Care website. 

Mental health counseling services are available throughout the ACC Student Services District to address personal and or mental health concerns at the Counseling website.

If you are struggling with a mental health or personal crisis, call one of the following numbers to connect with resources for help.  However, if you are afraid that you might hurt yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately.

Free Crisis Hotline Numbers:

• Austin / Travis County 24-hour Crisis & Suicide hotline: 512-472-HELP (4357)
• The Williamson County 24-hour Crisis hotline: 1-800-841-1255
• Bastrop County Family Crisis Center hotline: 1-888-311-7755
• Hays County 24 Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-877-466-0660
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text “home” to 741741
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline:   1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline:1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Student Injury Insurance:  

Students enrolled in lab and field courses are covered by student insurance if they are injured as a result of the lab or field activity. The instructor will provide the student with the necessary forms and complete an injury report for the office of Environment Health, Safety and Insurance. There is a small deductible.

Bad Weather:  

If classes are cancelled because of bad weather, ACC notifies instructors and students on the ACC homepage (http://www.austincc.edu) and on local radio and television stations.

ACC Policy Concerning Copyrighted Materials:  

All class materials provided on the instructor’s web page, Blackboard, CD, and/or in

printed form (labs, objectives, assignments, etc.) are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the copyright holder.  This may be the

instructor, ACC, or a publisher.  Reproduction consists of photocopying, scanning and copying files, or posting on a server or web site.  Students currently registered for this section have permission to print one copy of course materials for their own personal use.  No permission is given for posting any course materials on web sites.

STATEMENT ON ACADEMIC FREEDOM

"Institutions of higher education are conducted for the common good.  The common good depends upon a search for truth and upon free expression.  In this course the professor and students shall strive to protect free inquiry and the open exchange of facts, ideas, and opinions.  Students are free to take exception to views offered in this course and to reserve judgment about debatable issues. Grades will not be affected by personal views.  With this freedom comes the responsibility of civility and a respect for a diversity of ideas and opinions.  This means that students must take turns speaking, listen to others speak without interruption, and refrain from name-calling or other personal attacks."

Blackboard: 

 “I will post all grades, lecture objectives, and lab handouts on Blackboard. Please check this site on a daily basis for announcements and all needed materials.” 

Cell Phones and Pagers: 

 “Please turn off cell phones and pagers during class as a courtesy to me and other students.”  

There are no required readings for this BIOL 1408 - Biology for non-science majors.

BIOL 1408 Spring 2024 Lecture Schedule

** “Please note that schedule changes may occur during the semester.  Any changes will be announced in class and posted as a Blackboard Announcement (or other resource faculty is using to communicate).” **

Biology 1408 Lab Schedule / Spring 2024

Week 2 - Jan 22   Lab 1:  Introduction to Science.

Week 3 - Jan 29   Lab 3: Carbohydrates 

Week 4 - Feb 05   Lab 4:  Lipids and pH 

Week 5 - Feb 12   Lab 5:  Microscope Use 

Week 6 - Feb 19   Lab 6:  Molecules Move 

Week 7 - Feb 26   Lab 7:  Chemical Reactions and Enzymes 

Week 8 - Mar 04  Lab 8:  Osmosis & Dialysis 

March 11 -15:   Spring Break Week

Week 9 - Mar 18     Lab 9: Photosynthesis & Aerobic Cellular Respiration 

Week 10 - Mar 25   Lab 12:  Making New Cells by Mitosis & Cytokinesis 

Week 11 - April 01  Lab 13: Meiosis 

Week 12 - April 08   Lab 14: Patterns of Inheritance

Week 13 - April 15   Lab 16: DNA

Week 14 - April 22   Lab 18: Transcription and Translation  

Week 15 - April 29   Lab 15 & 19: Cancer Gene Pedigree and Detection  

Week 16 - May 06     Lab 11:  The ELISA Assay

Student Learning Outcomes and Learning Objective for this BIOL 1408 course can be found at this website:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BxZ7UnOPp6OVbHRhazloblI3cjg/view?resourcekey=0-CA0iG3S3SGGCeVT_caDqTQ