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Biology (101)

The study of biology is concerned with living organisms, their diversity, evolution, and structure and function at the cellular and organismal levels. It includes the study of cell metabolism, genetics – Mendelian and molecular, and biodiversity.

COURSE STRUCTURE:   Biology courses involve 45 hours (3 hours per week) of classroom contact and 30 hours (2 hours per week) of lab work.

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE: Students in biology labs will be using many of the modern technologies and techniques used in biological research labs today. These include state of the art compound microscopes, digital spectrophotometers, ion exchange chromatography for protein fractionation, gel electrophoresis for DNA purification and lap top computers interfaced with sensors for measuring pH, pressure, and EKG's.
 
COURSE REQUIREMENTS WITHIN THE TWO SCIENCE PROFILES

ENRICHMENT:   General Biology I and II students interested in enrichment of the course material are provided with relevant materials on an individual basis. Students are tested periodically on selected articles relevant to the course material. These activities can count towards the Honours Science Certificate.

Course Descriptions

General Biology I (BIO-NYA)
101-NYA-05    (3-2-3)    2.66 credits
A required course in the Science program

This course investigates the levels of organization of living organisms, their diversity, evolution and mode of life. Topics discussed include: the structure and function of cells and cellular organelles; genetic material and protein synthesis; cell division, Mendelian inheritance and population genetics; the origin of life, diversity and physiology of the main taxonomic groups; Darwin’s theory of evolution and mechanisms of speciation. The global aspects of living organisms are presented with ecological principles at the level of the population, communities and ecosystems.

General Biology II (BIO-LCU)
101-LCU-05     (3-2-3)     2.66 credits
Prerequisite: BIO-NYA
An elective course in the Science program
(required in the Health Science profile)

The molecular basis of living organisms is discussed in the general framework of cellular homeostasis. The principle areas of investigation include: biochemical structure and function of macromolecules; enzymes and enzyme regulation; bioenergetics of cellular respiration and photosynthesis; DNA replication and protein synthesis; regulation of gene expression; development and differentiation of cells; features of the immune system.

Human Physiology (BIO-LCV)
101-LCV-05     (3-2-3)    2.66 credits
An elective course in the Science program
(Winter term only)

This course will introduce the student to human anatomy and physiology. Topics studied include the microscopic and macroscopic anatomy and physiology of the nervous, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, excretory and endocrine systems.