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SYLLABUS DESIGN
2
Learning Styles Syllabus Design Paper
Introduction
The course for which the syllabus was created is an introductory biology course for nonscience major students. The course itself is part of the liberal arts curriculum for Ivy Tech
Community College and is transferable to Indiana University (IU) as per the articulation
agreement. The course is designed to provide a general overview of biology as a science that
covers basic information ranging from molecular and microbiology through ecosystem biology
and covers all levels in between. The objectives of the course are set forth by the institution in
order to be in compliance with the articulation agreement with IU and consist of the following:
1) Apply the scientific method to problems encountered in everyday life; 2)
Provide examples of the historic development of current scientific thought; 3)
Demonstrate basic skills of metric measuring, data collection, data
interpretation, and microscope use; 4) Interpret simulations of biological
systems and relate them to concrete applications; 5) Describe plant structures
and functions including reproductive biology, development, and regulation of
systems; 6) Identify the internal and external structures of both the prokaryotic
and eukaryotic cells and define the functions of each; 7) Recognize energy
pathways such as photosynthesis, respiration, and overall cellular metabolism;
8) Describe the basic processes of mitosis and meiosis and relate them to the
life cycle of organisms; 9) Summarize the mechanisms of inheritance and the
processes by which protein and DNA are synthesized; 10) Describe the major
principles of genetics and biotechnology; 11) Understand the mechanisms of
natural selection and their impact on evolution; 12) Identify major ecological
SYLLABUS DESIGN
SYLLABUS DESIGN
individuals lifetime. Visual learners benefit from visual stimuli in the form of videos, visual
presentation aids, demonstrations, contrast of color and graphics. Auditory learners rely on
sound stimuli in the form of spoken language (lectures and discussion), music, videos, and
demonstrations. Read/Write learners are best taught using full written thoughts and benefit from
activities such as reading print or virtual materials and writing responses, notes and essays, etc.
Kinesthetic learners learn in association with using motor skills and activities may include
construction, experimentation, role playing and problem solving.
The Multiple Intelligences model was developed by Gardner in 1983 and originally
included seven modalities (logical-mathematical, linguist, musical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic,
interpersonal and intrapersonal) associated with learning. In recent years, two additional
modalities (spiritual and natural) were incorporated to enhance the accuracy of the learning
styles represented by the model. Methods that fit with the Multiple Intelligences model include
art, music, construction, experimentation, group work, independent work, logic and language
(Gardener & Hatch, 1989; MacKeracher, 2004).
Kolbs model of learning styles is based on experiential learning theory. Kolbs model
of learning styles includes a four-stage cycle: concrete experience (this experience is the base
source of learning), reflective observation (learners engage in self-reflection on the experience
and grasp the meaning of experience, the articulate and describe their experiences), abstract
conceptualization (learners generalize the main ideas, principles and abstract concepts from
experience), and active experimentation (learners then put the main ideas and concepts from
their experience into practice and determine what works and what doesnt through trial and
error). After this step, the process cycles back to the first stage again. Kolbs experiential
learning builds a solid foundation for different learning styles of learners: divergent, assimilate,
SYLLABUS DESIGN
SYLLABUS DESIGN
method of learning. Experiencing a new environment, observing a biological testing lab, the
opportunity to ask a chemist questions, and short reflection paper are all part of the four part
cycle in Kolbs model and creates opportunities that some students may not get an opportunity
to participate during their undergraduate studies. The section of the syllabus detailing the field
observation project has more elaborate details.
SYLLABUS DESIGN
INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY
BIOL 101 16F
CRN 32447
Instructor Information:
Abigail Vannatta and Troy Rector
SYLLABUS DESIGN
COLLEGEWIDE COURSE OUTLINE OF RECORD
BIOL 101, INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY
COURSE TITLE: Introductory Biology
COURSE NUMBER: BIOL 101
PREREQUISITES: Demonstrated competency through appropriate assessment or earning a
grade of C or better in ENGL 093 Introduction to College Writing and ENGL 083 Reading
Strategies for College and MATH 023 Essentials of Algebra I or MATH 080 Mathematics
Principles with Algebra
SCHOOL: Liberal Arts and Sciences
PROGRAM: Liberal Arts
CREDIT HOURS: 3
CONTACT HOURS: Lecture: 2
Lab: 2
DATE OF LAST REVISION: Fall, 2013
EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS REVISION: Fall, 2014 (Ivy Tech Community College, 2014)
CATALOG DESCRIPTION: Introduces the basic concepts of life. Includes discussion of
cellular and organismal biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and interaction among all living
organisms. Addresses applications of biology in a global community (Ivy Tech Community
College, 2014).
MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course
the student will be expected to:
1. Apply the scientific method to problems encountered in everyday life.
2. Provide examples of the historic development of current scientific thought.
3. Demonstrate basic skills of metric measuring, data collection, data interpretation, and
microscope use.
4. Interpret simulations of biological systems and relate them to concrete applications.
5. Describe plant structures and functions including reproductive biology, development, and
regulation of systems.
6. Identify the internal and external structures of both the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and
define the functions of each.
7. Recognize energy pathways such as photosynthesis, respiration, and overall cellular
metabolism.
8. Describe the basic processes of mitosis and meiosis and relate them to the life cycle of
organisms.
9. Summarize the mechanisms of inheritance and the processes by which protein and DNA are
synthesized.
10. Describe the major principles of genetics and biotechnology.
11. Understand the mechanisms of natural selection and their impact on evolution.
12. Identify major ecological concepts such as communities, energy flow and nutrient cycling,
and renewable and non-renewable resources.
13. Describe the general properties and characteristics of the biological kingdoms.
14. Describe human structures and functions including reproductive biology, development,
behavior, and regulation of organ systems.
15. Apply the scientific method and the knowledge gained from the course to societal concerns.
(Ivy Tech Community College, 2014)
SYLLABUS DESIGN
SYLLABUS DESIGN
10
ADA STATEMENT:
If you require special accommodations, please notify the instructor immediately and provide
documentation of services to be provided. For additional assistance, contact the Office of
Disability Services.
ACADEMIC HONESTY:
Academic honesty is expected on all course assignments, quizzes and exams. Any dishonest
actions will be treated with severe penalty. Dishonest actions include, but are not limited to,
plagiarism and/or cheating. Penalties associated with these aforementioned actions include, but
are not limited to, a failing grade on the assignment, quiz or exam, a failing grade in the course,
or expulsion from the college.
ATTENDANCE POLICY:
Attendance is expected for every lecture and lab session. If you are absent due to an extenuating
circumstance, it is your responsibility to contact the instructor prior to the missed session and
attaining all missed materials/activities such as notes, assignments, quizzes, exams and
laboratory reports. Labs cannot be made up due to the strict schedule and lab management
policies and procedures.
EVALUATION METHOD AND GRADING CRITERIA:
IVY TECH COMMUNITY COLLEGE GRADING SCALE:
90 100%
A
80 89%
B
70 79%
C
60 69%
D
59% and below F
Lecture Quizzes: 10 at 20 points each
Quizzes will be given at the beginning of each lecture that cover the material presented in the
previous week. If you are late you must make arrangements with the instructor to make up the
quiz in the testing center. Missed quizzes as a result of absence can only be made up in the
testing center if the instructor is notified prior to the missed lecture.
Lecture Exams: 3 at 100 points each
Four exams will be given periodically throughout the semester. The lowest score of the four
exams will be dropped. The remaining three exams are worth 100 points each. The exams may
consist of a combination of the following formats: multiple choice, matching, short answer,
essay and diagram labeling. See the course schedule under the Start Here link in Blackboard
for exam dates.
Lecture Homework: 15 at 20 points each
Lecture homework consists of guided reading worksheets that are correlated with the textbook
chapters. The pdf and word document versions of the worksheets are available in Blackboard
under the green Assignments link found on the left side of the webpage.
SYLLABUS DESIGN
11
SYLLABUS DESIGN
12
exist for non-academic pursuits including but not limited to making donations. There is no
extra credit on the final exam.
Opportunities to earn extra credit points will be provided throughout the semester.
CLASSROOM CRITERIA:
1. CELL PHONES: Cell phones are not to be used in the classroom at any time. Use of a
cell phone during an exam or quiz will result in an automatic zero on the exam or quiz.
Texting is not allowed during class time. If there is an emergency situation that requires
cell phone usage, please notify the instructor prior to class and step into the hall when
needed.
2. PERSONAL COMPUTERS AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES: Personal
computers or other devices such as iPADs, Kindles, etc. may only be used with prior
permission from the instructor. Devices may only be used for educational purposes
which include, but are not limited to: viewing Blackboard content for this course only,
taking notes, and viewing instructor led websites during instruction. Devices may not be
used for checking email, social media, web browsing or any other non-instructional
purpose.
MAKEUP POLICY:
1. Labs: Laboratory exercises are not eligible for makeup. To receive credit for the lab
activities you must be present. Missing a lab will result in an automatic zero for that lab.
In order to allow for extenuating circumstances, one lab grade will be dropped from the
final score. Please use this wisely.
2. Assignments: Assignments are expected to be turned in on the due date. Late
assignments will be accepted via Ivy Tech email for a 10% grade reduction per day for
up to four days. If you choose to wait until the next class period to turn in late
assignments, the grade will be subject to the 50% deduction. No late assignments will be
accepted after the class period following the due date of the assignment.
3. Exams/Quizzes: Exams and Quizzes will not be eligible for makeup unless the
instructor is notified prior to missing. Exams and quizzes can be made up in the testing
center for up to 7 days after missing. In order to allow for emergency situations, one
exam will be dropped from the final score. The comprehensive final exam is not
included in exams eligible for dropping.
SYLLABUS DESIGN
13
COURSE SCHEDULE FALL 2014
BIOL 101-16F: INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY
Wk
Date
Jan 13
Jan 20
Jan 27
Feb 3
Feb 10
Feb 17
Lecture
(Tuesday 6:00-7:50)
Syllabus and
Introduction
Chapter 1:
Scientific Study of
Life
Chapter 2: The
Chemistry of Life
Chapter 3: Cells
Chapter 4: The
Energy of Life
Chapter 5:
Photosynthesis
Chapter 6: How
Cells Release
Energy
Chapter 7: DNA
Structure and Gene
function
Chapter 8: DNA
Replication and
Cell Division
Lab
(Tuesday 8:00-9:50)
Lab Safety
Lab 1: Understanding
the Scientific Method
Lab 2: Scientific
Notation and the
Metric System
Lab 4: Acids, Bases,
and pH
Lab 7: Enzymes
Lab 8: Diffusion and
Osmosis
Lab 9:
Photosynthesis
Lab 10: Cellular
Respiration
Related Content
Activities
Homework
Quizzes/Tests
Organic Molecule
Structure and
Chemistry Activity
GR: Chapter
1-3
NONE
PPT: Chapter 4
Videos: Laws of
Thermodynamics
Crash Course,
Entropy Crash
Course, Redox
Reactions Crash
Course
PPT: Chapter 5
Videos:
Photosynthesis
Animation,
Photosynthesis
Crash Course
PPT: Chapter 6
Videos: ATP and
Respiration Crash
Course, Cellular
Respiration
Animation
Periodic Table
Activity
Due:
1/20/2015
Cricket Chirp
Simulation
pH Scale
Construction
GR: Chapter 4
pH testing
experiments
Due:
1/27/2015
Carbonic Acid
Production
Demonstration
Microscope Use
Lab
Quiz 1
GR: Chapter 5
Exam 1:
Chapters 1-3
Dissecting Scope
Demonstration
Due: 2/3/2015
Binder Check 1
Discussion
Board 1
Catalase Enzyme
Experiment
GR: Chapter 6
Quiz 2
Dialysis Tubing
Experiment
Due:
2/10/2015
Smell Diffusion
Demonstration
Plant Collection
Minitrip
GR: Chapters
7-8
Chromatography
Experiment
Due:
2/17/2015
Yeast Fermentation
Demonstration
Marshmallow DNA
Construction
Pedigree Reading
Demonstration
DNA Extraction
Experiment
GR: Chapter 9
Due:
2/24/2015
Quiz 3
Exam 2:
Chapters 4-6
Binder Check 2
Discussion
Board 2
SYLLABUS DESIGN
14
Translation Crash
Course
Feb 24
Mar 3
Mar 10
Mar 17
10
11
12
13
Mar 24
Mar 31
Apr 7
Apr 14
Chapter 9: Sexual
Reproduction and
Meiosis
SPRING BREAK
NO CLASSES
12: Forces of
Evolutionary
Change
Chapter 16:
Evolution and
Diversity of Plants
Chapter 21: Plant
Form and Function
Lab 16:
Classification
Chapter 22:
Reproduction and
Development of
Flowering Plants
Chapter 17:
Evolution and
Diversity of
Animals
Chapter 23: Animal
Tissues and Organ
Systems
Field Observation at
Eli Lilly lab
PPT: Chapter 9
Mitosis Crash
Course, Meiosis
Crash Course,
Natural Selection
Crash Course
PPT: Chapters 10
& 11
Videos: Mendel
Minibiography,
Heredity Crash
Course,
Recombinant DNA,
Plasmids and
Transgenic
Bacteria,
Transgenic Plants,
Super Cow,
Glofish, Stem Cells,
Dolly the Sheep
Meiosis
Chromosome
Journey Activity
GR: Chapter
10
Quiz 4
Due: 3/3/2015
Mitosis and Meiosis
Microscopy
Codon Game
Genotype and
Phenotype Penny
Toss
Dominant and
Recessive Alleles
Class Activity
GR: Chapter
11
Quiz 5
Due:
3/17/2015
Punnett Squares:
Monohybrid and
Dihybrid Crosses
Activity
PPT: Chapter 12
Videos: The Origin
of Life Crash
Course, Charles
Darwin Biography,
Evidence of
Evolution Crash
Course,
Comparative
Anatomy Crash
Course, Speciation
Crash Course
PPT: Chapters 16
& 21
Videos: Vascular
Plants Crash
Course, Plant
Structure and
Function, Plant
Transport
Animation
PPT: Chapter 22
Videos: Plant
Reproduction Crash
Course,
Nonvascular Plant
Reproduction Crash
Course
Darwins Finches:
Evolution
Simulation
PPT: Chapters 17
& 23
Videos: Animal
Development Crash
Course, Simple
Animals Crash
Course, Complex
Animals Crash
Course
N/A
Comparative
Anatomy Activity
GR: Chapters
16 & 21
Exam 3:
Chapters 7-11
Due:
3/24/2015
Binder Check 3
Discussion
Board 3
GR: Chapter
22
Quiz 6
Cytochrome C
Protein Sequencing
Fossil Identification
Dichotomous Key
Construction
Cladogram
Construction
Flower Dissection
Due:
3/31/2015
GR: Chapters
17 & 23
Quiz 7
Fruit Identification
Due: 4/7/2015
Seed Germination
Experiment
GR: Chapter
18
Exam 4:
Chapters 12, 16,
21, 22
Due:
4/14/2015
Binder Check 4
Discussion
Board 4
Dendrology Ring
Counting
Experiment
N/A
Reflection
paper
Due:
SYLLABUS DESIGN
15
4/21/2015
14
15
16
Apr 21
Apr 28
May 5
Chapter 18:
Population Ecology
Chapter 19:
Communities and
Ecosystems
Chapter 20:
Preserving
Biodiversity
Comprehensive
Final Exam (worth
25% of grade)
PPT: Chapter 18
PPT: Chapter 19
Videos: Ecosystem
Ecology Crash
Course, Community
Ecology Crash
Course, : Animal
Behavior Crash
Course, Population
Ecology Crash
Course,
PPT: Chapter 20
Videos: 5 Human
Impacts on the
Environment,
Conservation and
Restoration Crash
Course, Pollution
Crash Course,
Crayfish Dissection
Human Population
Projection
Simulation
Predator-Prey
Simulation
Succession
Simulation
Soil Pollution
Experiment
Protecting the
Environment Action
Plan
GR: Chapter
19
Quiz 8 & 9
GR: Chapter
20
Due:
4/28/2015
Final Exam
Study Guide
Quiz 10
Due 5/5/2015
Letter to
Representative
Activity
NONE
NONE
References
Fleming, N. D. (2001). Teaching and learning styles: VARK strategies. Christchurch, New Zealand: N.
D. Fleming.
Gardner, H. & Hatch, T. (1989). Multiple intelligences go to school: Educational implication for the
theory of multiple intelligences. Educational Researcher, 18(8), 4-10.
Ivy Tech Community College. (2014). Collegewide course outline of record: BIOL 101 introductory
biology. Retrieved from https://wwwapps.ivytech.edu/cgibin/cor3/gpcourse_list.cgi?course_id=BIOL+101&prefixlist=
MacKeracher, D. (2004). Making sense of adult learning, second edition. Toronto, Canada: University
of Toronto