Biology 401-01: Molecular, Mendelian and Population Genetics- Fall 2008

Class Meetings:
MWF 9-9:50a.m. Morgan Hall, Room 104

Course Description:
Molecular, Mendelian, and population principles will be developed with the inclusion of an introduction to modern experimental techniques. The course will also explore the application of Christian values to ethical issues related to genetics. Prerequisite: Biology 101 and 102 or permission of professor. [Credit 3 hr]

Text: Essential Genetics - A Genomics Perspective, 4th Edition, Hartl and Jones, Jones and Bartlett Publishers

Text Course Resources (see text inserts):
Online Learning Center
BioCourse.com
Genetics CD-ROM...from Genes to Genomes Ann Reynolds

Reference Texts: (Suggested references, not required.)
Principles of Genetics R. H. Tamarin
Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life, Cecie Starr, Ralph Taggart
Biology: Through the Eyes of Faith, R. T. Wright
Student Study Guide in Genetics (7th ed.) R.H. Tamarin
Teaching Science in a Climate of Controversy: D. Price,J.L. Wiester,R. Walter - A View from the American Scientific Affiliation.
Peas and Drosophila Computer Software Mark Browning
Gene Game Software William Sofer

Course Organization and Assistance: http://cesc.montreat.edu/Mark (then link to Genetics)


Goals of Biology 401:

1. Objective: A student successfully completing this course must be able to understand concepts intgrated into various modes of classroom instruction and additionally be involved in student-student assistance while being a part of a class support structure that provides the opportunity for Christ-centered encouargement.

Goal: To enhance learning through various styles of instruction and student-student assistance while fostering an atmosphere of Christ-centered support and encouragement. Educational Objectives: [http://www.montreat.edu] - 3, 5, 7 [BL Assessment Goal 1-LO1A,1B; BL Assessement Goal 2-LO2A,2B; BL Assessment Goal 3-LO3A]

2. Objective: The student will be able to utilize critical thinking to assimulate specific information and topics of structure into a physiological operations model requiring the student's understanding of systems integrations within an organism.

Goal: To encourage the development of critical thinking in the assimilation of concepts and specific information. Educational Objectives: [http://www.montreat.edu] - 1,2 [BL Assessment Goal 1-LO1A]

3. Objective: The students will be able to utilize foundational concepts and principles in various organismal and environmental processes models.

Goal: To develop foundational concepts and principles foundational to Biology, applicable to Environmental Studies and in preparation for professional training (i.e. Medical School and Graduate School). Educational Objectives: [http://www.montreat.edu] - 3, 5 [BL Assessment Goal 1-LO1A,1B]

4. Objective: Students will be able to perform internet searches for scientific materials and prepare a web site for each student's class presentation.

Goal: Development of skills in literature research, Computer search,html presentation skills, information, and communication skills, utilizing an understanding of scientific inquiry and making application to related course topics. *Ed Obj-2, 3, 4, 5, 7. Educational Objectives: [http://www.montreat.edu] - 3,4 [BL Assessment Goal 1-LO1A,1B; BL Assessment Goal 3-LO3A]

5. Objective: Successful students will independently review and prepare for class, class evaluations, and mastery of the course materials, but also participate and be supported by small groups that provides peer-to-peer instruction and academic refinement.

Goal: Self actualized review (introductory biology and current course materials) and preparation, supported and encouraged by small study / support groups and participatory learning/instruction. Educational Objectives: [http://www.montreat.edu] - 5,6 [BL Assessment Goal 1-LO1A; BL Assessment Goal 3-LO3A]

6. Objective: The successful student will be able to utilize and construct statistics tools to evaluate genetic measurements and use statistic calculations for making genetic applications.

Goal: Proficient statistical application through self-designed computer manipulation. *Ed Obj-2, 3, 4, 5. [BL Assessment Goal 1-LO1A,1B; BL Assessment Goal 3-LO3B]

7. Objective: The successful student will be able to apply population genetics to ecological projection models.

Goal: Integration of each component of the course in the application of genetics to ecology. *Ed Obj-3, 5.[BL Assessment Goal 1-LO1A,1B; BL Assessment Goal 3-LO3B]

*Educational Objectives, found in the Montreat College's Statement of Purpose - http://www.montreat.edu

Course Components:

1. Classroom and Evening Meetings. Lectures / Discussion will utilize primarily the Tamarin text and build upon Molecular and Mendelian genetics covered in the Introductory Biology course. Chapters are to be read before the lectures that cover this material. Two evening meetings will be held to discuss Genetics topics and enable discussions to assist in position papers development.

2. Review. Students are to review related introductory material from the general biology first year course before the lecture dealing with this material. Students are encouraged to work in groups to assist their review.

3. Tests. The course is divided into three units. There will be two tests given per unit and completed outside of class to provide the student with a more flexible time structure. Unannounced quizzes will be given and the unit quiz average may make up as much as 10% of the second unit test.

4. Workbook. Each student will organize and compile a Workbook (three ring binder organized by chapters and extra assignments) in which all the assignments are compiled and turned in on the day (by 3:00 p.m.) following the completion of a chapter with assignments. Organization of this workbook will be included in its grading. While the student may work with others, the final work for these assignments is independent work.

5. Web Topic Posting. Due September 12th, each student is to prepare a web site that includes a Title, Abstract, Introduction, Issues Summary, and Sources Sited sections. The student is to develop a web site that presents a research topic related to the course. At least twelve sources must be clearly presented in a hyperlinked Sources Sited section and effectively linked within the web site. The site is basically a review of materials for a position paper. These will be compiled on the course web site and will enable preparation for class discussions and position papers. These are to be submitted on a disc or downloaded to web site.

6. Position Paper. During the evening meetings, various topics selected from the web postings will be discussed. Following these discussions, each student will write an independent position paper. The topic is developed in an introduction, various works and data are discussed in a comparative review section, and the basic issue is summarized in the following section. The last section develops the students position and defends this position. The paper must include a developed position of both conflicting views and must evaluate a Christian position. Due - October 15th .

Note: Special service available to you: Writing Assistance All students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources available in the Writing Center, located adjacent to the Bell Library computer lab. See http://www.montreat.edu/writing for more information.

7. Web and CD-ROM Resources. Your text purchase is packaged with resources (both web access and enclosed CD-ROM) that will be helpful to the students preparation and assistance.

8. Resource Room. The Resource room on the second floor will be available to the class. The class may additionally arrange for a tutorial period when needed.

Grading Procedures:

Tests (6) 80%

Web Site Posting 5%

Position Paper 5%

Assignment Workbook - Organization and Content 10%

Grading Scale:

A=100-92, A- = 91-90, B+=89-88, B=87-82, B-=81-80, C+=79-78, C=77-72,C-=71-70, D+=69-68,D=67-62, D-=61-60, F= below 60.

The instructor reserves the right to adjust final grades based on attendance, attitude, behavior and/or special projects. Unannounced quizzes will be given and incorporated into the second unit test. Material for quizzes and exams will come directly from the lectures and reading assignments. You are responsible for material discussed in class.

Student Expectations:

Talking or distracting others in class will not be tolerated. If this occurs, you will be asked to leave class and be credited with an absence. Cheating is not tolerated and if caught you will fail that assignment and then upon a second event, you will automatically fail the class. There are no second chances. Academic honor is expected! All use of tobacco is prohibited in Morgan Science Center. Please refrain from eating in the classroom.

Attendance Policy:

Registration in a course obligates the student to regular and punctual attendance. Absences will be counted from the first week of classes. It is the students responsibility to obtain, from other students, notes or materials that you miss. This is to be done immediately after an absence. If a test is not completed or an assignment is not turned in on a due date, even if the student is absent on this date, the grade is recorded as a" zero" unless the professor is notified on that day of any conflict.

Students on academic probation shall have no more than three absences (excused or unexcused) in any course. Absences in excess of 3 will result in a grade of "F" for that course. If not on AP, you will be allowed 6 total absences, excused or unexcused. On reaching the sixth absence, your grade will be dropped 1 full letter grade for each additional absence. Coming in late to class 3 times will constitute 1 unexcused absence. Should you come in late to class, it is your responsibility to inform the instructor that period. Your attendance in class reflects, to some degree, your desire to do well in the course.

Note from the Instructor:

I excitedly engage in this task. I value the opportunity to work with each of you and I equally appreciate your trust in my desire and attempt to make this a valuable course. I recognize the investment that we both make towards these ends and ask that we both humbly seek out God's leading for the best that we can do to make this a great semester. Each of you make-up a unique part of this community and you have continued to impress me with your commitment to you faith and the living out of this among each other. I do look forward to getting to know each of you better this semester. I have an open-door policy. Please feel free to come speak with me. I invite your interest in directing/altering this course. I will be glad to take any suggestions or concerns you might have and I will try to express to you my concerns about the decisions made in the development of this course. Your concern may lead us both to a unique instruction of the material. I will want to challenge you (even push you sometimes) and I invite you to speak with me if I can help. I will often direct you back to seeking assistance from each other and I will want to develop your self-help skills, but I do encourage you to seek out my help. Again thanks for this opportunity and I look forward to a great semester.

May you know the genuine, reassuring touch of our Savior and be aware of the gentle encouragement to continue our growth and service in our Lord. -Mark

Academic Integrity Policy

A. Definition of Academic Dishonesty

Academic dishonesty, such as cheating on tests and plagiarizing essays, violates the fundamental trust underlying all academic work: that the work be the product of the student who submitted it. Montreat College defines academic dishonesty as the representation of another's words, ideas, or images as one's own. It applies equally to intentional and unintentional quotations, paraphrases, visual images, auditory images, and all electronic means of storage and communication. When academic dishonesty occurs, these procedures will be followed:

B. Discipline of Academic Dishonesty

When a professor suspects a student of academic dishonesty, the professor will meet with the student(s) to discuss the incident and to determine to the faculty member's satisfaction whether or not academic dishonesty has occurred. If, in the instructor's judgment, such a violation of academic integrity has occurred, the faculty member will present the charges in writing to the student. The only possible disciplinarian actions are, (1) a "zero" for the assignment, or (2) an "F" for the course. A student may choose to admit his or her guilt of Academic Dishonesty and waive a hearing. This involves signing the Academic Dishonesty Notice outlining the disciplinary action. The Academic Dishonesty Notice will then be put on file in the Registrar's office. The record(s) regarding academic dishonesty will be retained until the student successfully graduates. A student who does not agree to the professor's charges must appear before a panel of three faculty members appointed by the Assistant Academic Dean or designee on charges of academic dishonesty. During the intervening period, a student is expected to continue to attend class.

The panel will convene a hearing with the student and the professor at which the faculty member will explain the student's alleged violation. A student may choose to counter with evidence of her or his innocence or may admit guilt.

C. Punishment of Academic Dishonesty

If the panel indicates, by simple majority vote, that the student has been dishonest, the panel shall uphold the penalty assessed by the professor. The Assistant Academic Dean or designee will notify the student, professor, advisor, and Registrar in writing of the panel's decision. If the student received a failing grade for the course the student may remove the impact of the "F" on the grade point average by successfully retaking the course. Two incidents of academic dishonesty will result in a student's being subject to dismissal from the college. The student will not be eligible to reapply to Montreat College for at least two (2) years after dismissal. If the panel finds the student not guilty of academic dishonesty, it will notify both the student and the faculty member.

If a student receives a zero for the assignment and wishes to drop the course within the time frame for dropping without penalty, he or she may do so, but the Academic Dishonesty Notice will be kept on file if the student has admitted or been found guilty of academic dishonesty. If the student has been given a zero for the assignment due to academic dishonesty and wishes to drop the course, but the time has passed for dropping without penalty, the student will have "WF" recorded on the transcript. A student receiving an "F" for the course as a result of academic dishonesty is not permitted to withdraw from the course; rather, the "F" is recorded on the transcript. In all instances, the record(s) regarding academic dishonesty will be retained until the student graduates.

D. Exoneration of Academic Dishonesty

If exonerating evidence becomes available in the five business days following notification, a student may appeal to the Vice President and Dean of Academics. Appeals will be heard only if they meet one of the following conditions: (a) Discovery of new evidence; (b) Violation of procedure. A student must remain in the class and work toward its successful completion during the appeal process. The student will be notified in writing of the final decision.

Lecture Schedule Below....

Lecture Schedule: Biology 401-01: Molecular, Mendelian, and Population Genetics

Text: Essential Genetics - A Genomics Perspective, 4th Edition, Hartl and Jones, Jones and Bartlett Publishers

Note: A week may be replaced by two evening meetings.

Week of:

Topic

Text (chapters) Assignment

Chromosomal Function: Mendelian Genetics, Heredity, Transmission, & Linkage

Aug. 18	The Genetic Code of Genes and Genomes	Chapter 1
Aug. 25	Transmission Genetics: Heritage from Mendel	Chapter 2
Sept. 1	Chromosomal Basis of Heredity [*Test #1:1-3]	Chapter 3
Sept. 8	Gene Linkage and Genetic Mapping	Chapter 4 (Web Posting due:Fri 9/12)
Sept. 15	Human Chrosomes and Chromosome Behavior [*Test #2:1,4-5]	Chapter 5

Molecular Genetics

Sept. 22	DNA Structure, Replication, and Manipulation	Chapter 6
Sept. 29	The Molecular Genetics of Gene Expression	Chapter 8
Oct. 6	[*Test #3: 6,8] Molecular Mechanisms of Gene Regulation	Chapter 9
Oct. 13	Molecular Mechanisms of Gene Regulation Genomics, Proteomics, and Genetic Engineering	Chapter 9 Chapter 10 (Paper due Wed. 10/15)
Oct. 20	Molecular Mechanisms of Mutation and DNA Repair	Chapter 12
Oct. 27	Molecular Genetics of the Cell Cycle and Cancer [*Test #4: 9,10,12,13]	Chapter 13

Population Genetics

Nov. 3	Molecular Evolution and Population Genetics Easter Break-Be refreshed with the message of God's Grace!	Chapter 14
Nov. 10	Molecular Evolution and Population Genetics	Chapter 14
Nov. 17	Application of Quantitative and Population Population Genetics: Processes that ChangeAllelic Frequencies Genetics (*Test #5: 14)	Chapter 20
Thanksgiving Break - Nov. 25 - Dec. 2 - Have a wonderful time of Thanksgiving!
Nov. 24	The Genetics Basis of Complex Inheritance	Chapter 15
Dec. 2	Preparation of Material for Final Note:Classes only meet:Nov. 24th, Dec. 2nd, and Dec. 3rd.

Final Exam (last test,#6: 14, 15): Monday, Dec. 8th @ 1:30-3:30 pm.

*Take home tests are given out the day after the week's material (indicated above) and turned in at the 2nd following class.