Microbiology Course Syllabus

Course Name: Microbiology                                          

I Course Information
Course Number: 4172
Level: Honors
Department: Science 

II Course Description
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Open to: Juniors and Seniors
Length: Year
Credit: 1
Summary: This course allows students to experience a life-like laboratory experience.  It is an introduction to the study of microscopic organisms, biogeochemical recycling, and microbial environmental factors.  Historic and clinical lab techniques are used to classify and identify microbes.  Students learn practical application of this knowledge to assess the danger of food poisoning and disease.  The second semester involves the basics of epidemiology, virology, and immunology in the study of disease transmission, prevention, and the social response to epidemics.  This course is laboratory and writing intensive.  Evaluation is based on written exams, a lab notebook, lab participation and responsibility, article reviews, and research projects.  The basic standards recommended by the American Society for Microbiology are incorporated in to the curriculum.  Students interested in careers in the medical profession or other biological fields will find this course beneficial.  

III Course Goals
1.  Use inquiry, reasoning, and critical thinking skills to assess and analyze biological phenomena.
2.  Understand and apply the scientific process skills to answer questions and solve problems within a biological context.
3.  Use collaborative groups to conduct scientific investigations, share ideas, and present research findings.
4.  Identify, understand, and appreciate the diversity, continuity, and relationships among living things.
5.  Assess and analyze the intra- and interconnectedness of biological kingdoms
6.  Provide opportunities for students to utilize educational institutions, programs, and technology.

IV Textbooks and Materials
MICROBIOLOGY by Jacquelyn G. Black
Lab Procedures, readings, and handouts provided by the instructor.
Lab Notebook (bound "zebra" composition notebook provided by student.

V  Course Outline
First Semester

            Units of Instruction:

                        I. The History of Earth and Early Life Theory

                        II. Microbial Life and Microscopy

                                    A. Protozoans and Pond Life

                                    B. Fungi and Decomposition

                        III. Bacterial Identification

                        IV. Food Microbiology

                        V. Environmental Microbiology 

            Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes

Second Semester Units of Instruction and Assessments:

            Units of Instruction:

                        I. Epidemics and Social Response

                        II. Virology

                        III. The Immune System and Nature of Disease

                        IV. Biotechnology (DNA Fingerprinting, Genetic Engineering of Microbes, Bioinfomatics)

            Major Assessments: unit tests and quizzes

(Parents and students: please consult individual teachers for grading policies, extra credit info, class procedures, etc.)