Time Schedule:
Fernanda X. Oyarzun
BES 180
Bothell Campus
For students intending to take advanced courses in the biological sciences or enroll in pre-professional programs. Mendelian genetics, evolution, biodiversity of life forms, ecology, conservation biology. First course in a three-quarter series (BES 180, BES 200, BES 220). Prerequisite: B CUSP 152.
Class description
This course is open to all UW students (from Bothell, Seattle, and Tacoma campuses), and mirrors the content and approaches of the Biology 180 course taught at Seattle campus. This course is approved as an equivalent of Biol 180, and can be substituted for this course at UW Seattle.
Student learning goals
Understand the application of the scientific method to biological problems. Understand how to construct and test hypotheses, interpret graphics and display of quantitative information, analyze results and understand their implications.
Master the fundamental principles of evolution, mendelian genetics and ecology.
Exposure to the diversity of life.
Develop critical thinking and facility in writing about biological topics and scientific experiments.
General method of instruction
There are two 125 minute lectures each week. Lectures include discussion of problems, group work and lecture material given by the instructor. Labs are also 125 minutes in length and are designed to (1) reinforce topics treated in lecture, and (2) introduce basic elements of experimental design and data analysis. All students must attend a weekend field trip.
Recommended preparation
Two quarters of college chemistry are required as a prerequisite. The course is reading and writing-intensive and mastery of the English language is assumed. Students should spend 6 hours preparing for each class session and 1 hour preparing for each lab.
Class assignments and grading
Learning and mastering of the material will be evaluated in a variety of ways, from midterms and final exam to pre-labs, written reports and in-class graded questions.
Total points are divided as follows: • Written weekly homework assignments: 10 points (each) • Pre-lab and lab written report: 100 points • Two midterm exams: 100 points (each) • One comprehensive final: 200 points
