Topics include organic molecules, biological molecules, enzymes, metabolism, cell structure and function, passage of materials across membranes, harvesting energy, mitosis, meiosis, introductory genetics, and the relationship between DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. One of two biology courses for science majors. Laboratory stresses techniques of cell and molecular biology as well as genetics. This course examines adaptations of organisms to changing environments.
Major emphasis is on physiological adaptations, natural selection, ethology, and ecology.
This course examines the renewable natural resources and the policies which govern their use in the United States. Laboratory investigations include measurement techniques, land use evaluations, and environmental problem solving. These exercises will be oriented toward the completion of an environmental impact assessment covering a current local environmental situation. An introduction to the study of plants that includes structure and function, development, and ecology. Emphasis will be placed on the diversity, adaptations, and life cycles of major plant groups.