G30 Spring AY2022

Fundamentals of Biology II
Undergraduate / Graduate

Undergraduate

Registration Code0054223

Course Category

Sciences BasicCredits

2.0

Term (Semester) / Day / Period

G-II (1st year, Spring Semester) / Thu. / 2 (10:30～12:00)

Instructor

VASSILEVA Maria

Contact e-mail of the Instructormnvassileva@ilas.nagoya-u.ac.jp●Goals of the Course
The course is designed to expand students’ understanding of the study of biology, and to foster independent
decision-making capabilities.
●Objectives of the Course
This course`s main focus is to provide students with working understanding on how the human body functions,and connect it to health and disease. Short introduction is given on basic concepts of ecology.
The course emphasizes on conceptual understanding of the biological topics discussed, rather than on
memorization of terms and facts. Course assignments are prepared with the goal of providing an opportunity topractice conceptual and analytical thinking. Students will gain the ability to use their understanding of humanphysiology to take informed decisions in everyday health-related situations. Ecology section will allow
students to critically evaluate agricultural and ecological issues. Students will have a regular opportunity toengage in discussions, and hone their teamwork skills on team projects.
●Course Content or Plan
1. Introductory human anatomy and physiology
1.1 Introduction to animal structure and function
1.2 Digestive system
1.3 Respiratory system
1.4 Circulatory system
1.5 Immune system
1.6 Urinary system
1.7 Endocrine system
1.8 Reproductive system and embryonic development
1.9 Nervous system and senses
1.10 Musculoskeletal system
2. Introductory ecology
2.1 Introduction to the biosphere
2.2 Population ecology
2.3 Community ecology
2.4 Ecosystem ecology
2.5 Conservation biology
2.6●Course Prerequisites and Related Courses
There is no prerequisite knowledge for this course. Everyone who is interested in learning how their bodyworks is encouraged to join. Exchange students are also welcome.
While this course is formally a continuation of Fundamentals of Biology 1, it is not connected to it in content.
Related courses: Physiology and Anatomy I.
●Course Evaluation Method and Criteria
The University standard 6-step grading scale is used in this course. Evaluation is based on several elements:(1) Participation: in-class participation (10%) and out-of-class participation on Perusall platform (10%),(2) Projects: group project (10%) and individual project (10%),(3) Written assignments: individual unit summaries in the form of Mindmaps (10%) and weekly quizzes (10%)(4) Exams: midterm (20%) and final exam (30%).

G30 Spring AY2022
Withdrawal: Students who do not intent to complete the course need to submit a Course Withdrawal Request.
This can be done over email/ NUCT message at any time during the course.
●Study Load (Self-directed Learning Outside Course Hours)
Students are expected to read the appropriate textbook chapter before class. Classes emphasize discussions andquestions, thus coming prepared is essential.
Weekly written assignments - summary of the upcoming class material in the form of a Mindmap - are the core
assignments for this course.
●How to Respond to Questions
The course instructor can be contacted outside the class hours at the email indicated above.
●Notice for StudentsClass attendance is not compulsory. Attendance per se is not part of the grade – attending without participating
is equal to not attending.
If you don’t feel well there is no need to send emails asking for permission not to attend class.
If you are abroad and the time difference makes it difficult to participate, feel free not to attend class sessions.
Separate discussion meetings can be arranged upon request at a suitable time.
● essage fro t e nstructor
This course will be conducted online until majority of the students are in Nagoya and the epidemic situation
allows the class to discuss in lecture room. All course materials and assignments are accessible/submittable
online on NUCT. Further information will be provided on the course NUCT site.

Textbook

Title: OpenStax Biology 2e
Authors: Clark, Douglas, Choi
Publisher: OpenStax
Year: 2018
ISBN: 978-1-947172-52-4
Free downloadable textbook (http://openstaxcollege.org), uploaded on Perusall
platform.
Title: Campbell Biology Concepts & Connections Global edition, 10 edition(or any earlier edition) This book is an excellent alternative to the OpenStax book.
Authors: Taylor, Simon et al.
Publisher: Pearson,Year: 2021
ISBN: 978-0135269169

Reference Book

Title: OpenStax Concepts of Biology
The content of this book is overly simplified for the goals of this course, but provides aquick easy overview.
Authors: Fouler, Roush, Wise et al.
Publisher: OpenStax
Year: 2013
ISBN: 978-1-947172-03-6