BIO173 Introductory Biology (8)

CSU Discipline Area: Biological Sciences (BILSC)

Duration: One session

Abstract:

This subject provides a basic introduction to the study of biology as a foundation for later subjects. It covers a range of topics fundamental to all biological disciplines, and provides a grounding in biological principles and knowledge for students drawn from several courses.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2013.Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: BIO173

Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Enrolment restrictions:

BIO107 Concepts of Biology; BIO129 Environmental Biology Available only to students enrolled in CSU pathway program - University Certificate in General Studies

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

- understand the major concepts in biology;
- appreciate the unifying concepts in biology and have the ability to generalise and develop those concepts;
- observe and record scientific information; and,
- understand the basic techniques used to investigate organisms and an ability to use basic equipment important in biological investigations.

Syllabus:

The subject will cover the following topics:

- The nature of biological enquiry: Characteristics of life, levels of organisation, hypothesis testing; - Introduction to ecology and behaviour: Population and community ecology, ecosystems and biomes, behavioural responses to the environment; - Cells and how they function: Biological chemistry, cell structure, cell membranes; - Energy in living cells: Metabolism, respiration, photosynthesis; - Principles of inheritance: Cell division and mitosis, meiosis, basic Mendelian genetics; - Principles of evolution: Emergence of ideas, evolutionary processes, speciation, classification; - Evolution and diversity: Review of trends and concepts in viruses, bacteria, protistans, fungi, plants and animals; - Plant structure and function: Tissues and organs, plant physiology, reproduction and development; - Animal structure and function: Tissues and organ systems, neuroendocrine control, digestion, excretion, respiration, circulation, movement, reproduction and development.

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