Unit 1 Introduction
In this Credit Unit you will explore the first three levels of biological organization with a focus on how biologically relevant molecules are created, organized, and utilized to support life sustaining processes. Additionally, you will explore the inner workings of the cell by comparing and contrasting plant and animal cells.
By the end of this Credit Unit you should be able to:
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Describe the various biological levels of organization (chemical, cellular… biosphere), how the levels relate to one another, and how the properties of life (organization, adaptation, reproduction, exchange of matter and energy, etc.) relate to each level.
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Explain how basic principles of chemistry (bonding, polarity, etc.) determine the structure and function of biological molecules.
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Describe the basic structure of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, how structure relates to function, and how the properties of cells (organelles, membrane permeability, enzyme activity) relate to larger-scale biological phenomena (gas exchange, nutrition, movement, etc.).
Course Outcomes:
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Be able describe selected key cell processes.
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Distinguish between the groups of biomolecules.