Introduction to Biology Course

Class Expectations

Importance of Biology
- Biology affects daily life.
- Understanding biology impacts cultural and societal engagement.
Instructor's Background and Teaching Philosophy
- Personal enthusiasm for biology.
- Acknowledges that some students may not favor biology but aims to make it engaging.
- Enjoys the success of converting students to biology majors.

Flipped Classroom Approach
- Requires students to engage with textbook and video lectures prior to class meetings.
- Emphasis on group work and activities during class sessions.
- Course modules available on Canvas with a focus on preparation.
Textbook Information
- Free online textbook available; hard copy costs $40.
- Textbook chosen for suitability for non-majors.
- Interest in providing material that students will find useful without overwhelming costs.

Schedule and Expectations
- Two meetings per week; responsibilities include textbook reading and video lecture viewing before class.
- Group activities and practical applications of concepts discussed in class to foster engagement.

Office Hours and Discussion Board
- Office located in WHL 201; virtual office hours to accommodate scheduling.
- Encourages using the discussion board for general inquiries and peer assistance.
- Personal emails are preferred for private matters.
- Response time: 24-48 hours; urgency advised not to wait until last minute.

Importance of Attendance
- Class activities are mandatory; absence leads to loss of participation points.
- Attendance is crucial for success given course structure dependent on group work.

Recommended Study Time
- Students should commit 3-4 hours per credit hour outside of class.
- For this 3-credit course, expect 9-12 hours/week of study.
- Instructor readiness to offer help as soon as challenges arise.
Student Support Resources
- Access to a tutoring center for additional help outside class hours.

Nature of the Course
- Combines content from both introductory biology courses (Bio 1 and Bio 2) into one semester.
- Encourages familiarity with key concepts, such as photosynthesis, without delving into excessive detail.

General Grading Philosophy
- No rounding up for grades; students typically should aim for at least 80% mastery of content for higher grades.
- No individual extra credit opportunities; all students treated equally.
- Complete assignments consistently to obtain potential for final grade improvements.
Breakdown of Grading Categories
- Homeworks and Quizzes: 15% of final grade; two attempts allowed for quizzes.
- Class Activities and Participation: 10% of final grade; engagement is crucial.
- Student-led Class Discussions: 5% of final grade; promotes peer interaction.
- Group Presentations: 10% of final grade; enhances group collaboration and learning.
- Exams: 60% of final grade; three non-cumulative midterms and one cumulative final exam.

Exam Structure and Policies
- Each midterm worth 100 points; lowest score automatically dropped from final grade calculation.
- Optional final exam for those satisfied with midterm grades.
- Strict policies regarding attendance and make-up exams, generally not allowed unless in extenuating circumstances.

Support for Students Needing Accommodations
- Students must provide documentation for legal accommodations; proactive communication necessary for exam scheduling.

Academic Honesty
- Strong stance against cheating; violations may lead to severe consequences, including failure in class or expulsion.

Reminder of Personal Experience and Understanding
- Encouragement for students to manage time wisely due to potential traffic issues and planning for timely arrivals to class.
- Noting the consequences of time management on academic performance.

Looking ahead to the first class engagement and preparations for following sessions.
Encouragement for students to take ownership of their learning and actively participate throughout the course.