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BIO 100 - General Biology - Juliana Lima

Introduction

I'm Prof. Lima, your guide through the fascinating study of life - from the molecular intricacies within cells to the complex interactions within the ecosystems. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of biological principles, including cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. By exploring these topics, you'll gain insights into the mechanisms that drive life and the interconnectedness of all living organisms. 

What sets this course apart is its hybrid format, combining the flexibility of online learning with the engagement of in-person sessions. This structure allows you to learn at your own pace while also participating in collaborative discussion and hands-on laboratory experiences. My goal is to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where you feel comfortable asking questions, exploring concepts, and applying your knowledge to real-world situations. 

Whether you're pursuing a career in science or simply aiming to fulfill a general education requirement, this course will equip you with critical skill and a deeper appreciation for the biological world.

I'm excited to have you in class and look forward to a time of discovery and growth!

Course Description

This hybrid General Biology course offers an introduction to the fundamental principles of biology, encompassing both molecular and ecological perspectives. Key topics include:

• Scientific Method & Experimental Design: Understanding the processes of scientific inquiry and data analysis.

• Biological Chemistry: Exploring the chemical foundations of life, including biomolecules and metabolic pathways.

• Cell Biology: Studying cell structure, function, and processes such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis.

• Genetics: Examining inheritance patterns, DNA structure and function, and gene expression.

• Evolution: Analyzing mechanisms of evolution, natural selection, and speciation.

• Ecology: Investigating interactions among organisms and their environments, including ecosystem dynamics.

The course combines online learning with in-person laboratory sessions to reinforce concepts through hands-on experience.

What to Expect in this Course

Course Format and Communication

This hybrid General Biology course combines in-person laboratory sessions with asynchronous online lectures. We will meet on campus during the designated lab time for hands-on experiments and activities. Lecture materials, including readings, videos, and assignments, will be accessible online via Canvas, allowing you to engage with the content at your own pace while adhering to weekly deadlines.

Communication will primarily occur through your College of the Canyons (COC) email and Canvas notifications. To stay informed, please check these platforms daily and consider setting up alerts on your devices to ensure timely receipt of important announcements and updates.

Academic Accommodations

If you require special accommodations, it's essential to register with the Academic Accommodations Center (AAC) at the beginning of the semester. The AAC provides support services for students with verified disabilities, ensuring equal access to educational opportunities. To initiate the process, complete the AAC Application for Services and submit appropriate documentation, such as an IEP, 504 Plan, or a diagnosis from a medical professional. Once registered, the AAC will issue an official accommodation letter for the current semester. I must be provided with a copy of this letter on the first day of lab to facilitate the timely implementation of your accommodations.

Assessments

Assessment in the course will comprise a variety of components, including quizzes and exams to evaluate understanding of key concepts. Students are also required to complete pre and post lab assignments. 

Types of Assessments

In this hybrid General Biology course, assessments are structured to reinforce both theoretical understanding and practical application. Key evaluations include:

• In-Person Exams: Both lecture and laboratory midterms and final exams will be conducted during scheduled lab sessions on campus. 

• Pre-Lab and Post-Lab Assignments

• Online Assessments: Weekly online quizzes for both lecture and lab content will be available through Canvas. These are designed to reinforce your learning and provide timely feedback.

• Discussion Board Assignments: Engage in weekly discussion prompts that encourage critical thinking and application of biological concepts. Participation in these discussions is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the course material.

Textbook Information

Textbook: Concepts of Biology, from Openstax.
Access for free at 

BioSci 100 Lab Manual: Building Knowledge Through Experiments, 4th ed.  Hard copy is only available from the COC bookstore.  You can also access a digital copy for free on our class Canvas site.

Other Relevant Course Information

All students are required to attend the first in-person lab session. Failure to do so will result in being dropped from the course to accommodate students on the waitlist.

Attendance is mandatory as per College of the Canyons policy, which states:

"Any student absent for any reason for more than 10% of the class meetings may be dropped by the instructor prior to 75% of the course."

In this course, "attendance" encompasses:

• Weekly in-person lab attendance for the full class period.

• Active participation in class activities.

• Timely completion of weekly lecture and lab assignments.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at . Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 06/11/2025 Sub#: 1930 Sub ID: 194984