Westmoreland County Community College
Annual Academic Discipline Review
Biology
Authors: Dr. Paul Kuehne and Autumn Maloy
2012 - 2013
Date Submitted:
(or Resubmitted)
Form Submitted by:
4/23/13
Term Submitted:
Participating Staff:
Dr. Paul Kuehne
Spring 2013
Dr. Paul Kuehne
Autumn Maloy
A summary review consists of the following essential components. Please complete in brief statements.
Essential Components
I.
Strengths Revealed by Analysis of the Data
Very few sections are cancelled, allowing students and faculty to have a stable schedule.
Over 91% of the sections that were originally offered were actually taught.
The number of sections has increased from Fall 2009 to Fall 2012, with growth increasing
steadily at the Youngwood campus, as well as the centers, although growth at the centers has
leveled this year. The number of online or distance sections has also increased 400% since
the Fall of 2009, when only 2 sections were taught online.
The percentage of DWF grades has been reduced from over 19.45% in Fall 2011 to 17.63%%
in Fall 2012. In addition, the GPA is the highest of the past four years (2.11 for Fall 2012
compared to 1.19 for Fall 2009).
II.
Concerns Revealed by Analysis of the Data
More sections are now taught by part-time faculty than full-time faculty. In 2012, out of 114
total sections, 52 (or 45.61%) were taught by full-time faculty, while 62 (or 54.39%) were
taught by part-time faculty. This means that the majority of students in this discipline do not
have the benefit of being taught by the most qualified professors available at the college.
The number of sections offered at the centers has increased by 40% from 2009 to 2012. This
places increasing burdens on laboratory supplies which must be shared with more locations,
as well as increasing breakage and loss from transporting supplies between centers.
III.
Course Learning Outcomes
BIO 102- Careers in Laboratory Technology
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Identify and describe the role of a Laboratory Technician in the workplace and
differentiate the responsibilities of a biological, chemical, forensic and medical
application technician.
2. Utilize the Internet to locate information pertaining to aspects of the biological,
chemical, forensic and medical application industry and prepare a presentation
through which the information will be shared with the class.
3. Describe the steps in the process of the development of a new biological, chemical or
medical application product from basic discovery to the marketplace.
4. Compile information regarding employment opportunities to local biology, chemistry,
forensic, and medical application based companies.
5. Identify various areas of a company that requires laboratory technicians and describe
their functions in the scheme of overall company operations.
BIO 107- Human Biology
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Differentiate anatomy and physiology and explain the relationship between structure
and function.
2. Explain homeostasis and give examples of 2 homeostatic mechanisms.
3. List the body cavities and the membranes associated with each and some of the major
organs in each.
4. Label planes of section and relative positions on appropriate diagrams.
5. Describe anatomical position, and label relative positions.
6. List levels of body organization in the proper order.
7. Explain the major functions of the following substances within the human body: O2,
water, electrolytes, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids
and adenosine triphosphate.
8. List and describe the structures and functions of the 4 main tissues of the body and
each of their subcategories.
9. Locate the layers of the skin on a cross section diagram.
10. Describe the tissue composition of the epidermis,dermis and the subcutaneous layer
(superficial fascia).
11. Explain how skin functions in regulation of body temperature.
12. List the accessory organs associated with skin.
13. Explain the functions of the accessory organs of the skin.
14. Describe the microscopic structure of spongy (cancellous) and compact bone.
15. Distinguish between intramembranous and endochondral bone formation
16. List bones of appendicular and axial skeleton separately under each heading.
17. Identify, on an appropriate diagram, each of the bones of the body and their main
landmarks.
18. Outline a classification of the joints of the body.
19. Describe the dissection of a skeletal muscle organ to its myofilament level.
20. Label an appropriate diagram of the microscopic structures of skeletal muscle.
21. Describe the process of skeletal muscle contraction at the microscopic level.
22. Describe the microscopy and function of a neuromuscular junction.
23. Explain the "all or none" role of skeletal muscle contraction.
24. Match the 20 given skeletal muscle organ names with their corresponding
actions/common names.
25. List and describe the 19 terms for muscle-directed movement of the human body.
26. List the neuroglia and neuron types of the body and describe their functions.
27. Describe the generation and propagation of the nerve impulse and synaptic
conduction.
28. Label appropriate diagrams of 2-neuron and 3-neuron reflex arcs.
29. Describe the structures and functions of the CNS.
30. Describe the structures and functions of the PNS.
31. Describe the structures and functions of the major sense organs of the body.
32. List the major endocrine gland, their secretions and target organs and the secretions’
effects on the target tissues.
33. Define digestion and label a diagram of the human digestive system and list functions
of the various structures, distinguishing between alimentary canal and accessory
organs.
34. Label an appropriate diagram of the respiratory system and list functions of all
structures.
35. Describe transports of O2 and CO2 in the blood and exchanges of these gases at the
lung alveoli and other tissues of the body.
36. Diagram and label a simplified heart illustration showing names of chambers, valves,
and conducting regions.
37. Label the major blood vessels of the body on an appropriate diagram.
38. Relate systole and diastole to cardiac cycle.
39. Describe and explain the functions of the major structures of the lymphatic system.
40. Differentiate innate and adaptive defense mechanisms.
41. Label a diagram of the major organs of the female and male urogenital systems and
list a function for each organ labeled.
42. Describe the major events that occur during the menstrual cycle in the pituitary gland,
the ovaries and the uterus.
BIO 110- Introduction to Forensic Biology
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Be able to describe and apply the methods for the assessment of the cause and manner
of death and explain the biological mechanisms of death,
2. Explain the effects of decomposition, environment and positioning of the body in
crime scene investigation,
3. Show evidence of understanding the mechanisms and biological effects of trauma.
4. Understand the effects of natural disease processes and their relation to forensic
investigation
5. Be able to discuss the methods used by crime laboratory professionals involving
ballistics, DNA evidence, toxicology, latent fingerprinting, and drug chemistry
6. Explain the methods of crime scene investigation and the components of a forensic
investigation.
BIO 120- Environmental Issues
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. List three basic differences between developed and developing nations.
2. Describe point and nonpoint sources of pollution and discuss our reliance upon
pollution cleanup rather than pollution prevention.
3. Distinguish between the following types of resources: perpetual, renewable and
nonrenewable.
4. Describe the major changes in human populations and technological advances that
occurred during these periods: Hunter-Gatherer Period, Agricultural Revolution and
Industrial Revolution.
5. Compare and contrast these major worldviews: planetary management, stewardship
and earth wisdom.
6. Outline the scientific method and compare and contrast a scientific hypothesis and a
scientific theory.
7. State the first and second laws of thermodynamics.
8. List at least three negative effects of urban sprawl.
9. Explain why China has been more successful than India in reducing its rate of
population growth.
10. List at least two advantages and two disadvantages of using the following fossil fuels:
coal, natural gas and conventional oil.
11. List two advantages and two disadvantages of using conventional nuclear power to
produce electricity.
12. List at least two advantages and disadvantages of using these alternative fuel sources
to heat homes or produce electricity: solar energy (passive or active) and wind.
13. Name an organism that would fit into one of the following classes of consumers:
herbivores, omnivores, carnivores, scavengers, detritus feeders and decomposers.
14. In a five level food chain, list each trophic level and give examples of organisms at
each level.
15. List three differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
16. Distinguish between populations, communities, ecosystems, biomes and the
biosphere.
17. Define the following: gross and net primary productivity and gross and net secondary
productivity.
18. Indicate the location and describe the composition of the following earth layers:
atmosphere (troposphere and stratosphere), geosphere or lithosphere and hydrosphere.
19. Be able to diagram and describe these biogeochemical cycles: hydrologic, carbon,
nitrogen and phosphate.
20. Describe the conditions necessary for evolution of a population by natural selection.
21. Compare and contrast generalist and specialist species and indicate their type of niche.
22. Name at least four factors that determine patterns of global air circulation.
23. Give the temperature, precipitation and soil conditions in tropical, temperate and cold
deserts.
24. Give the temperature, precipitation and soil conditions in tropical, temperate and polar
grasslands.
25. Give the temperature, precipitation and soil conditions in tropical rain, temperate
deciduous and evergreen coniferous forests.
26. List and describe the major zones of a lake and contrast oligotrophic, mesotrophic and
eutrophic lakes.
27. List and describe the major zones of the ocean.
28. Discuss the following types of species: native, alien, indicator and keystone.
29. Discuss the following types of species interactions: mutualism, commensalism,
parasitism and predation.
30. Define succession and distinguish between primary and secondary succession.
31. Compare and contrast exponential and logistic growth and relate these growth patterns
to carrying capacity.
32. Give four differences between r-selected and K-selected species.
33. List at least three advantages and disadvantages of large dams and reservoirs.
34. List the major categories of water pollutants and consider their sources and possible
health effects.
35. List four ways an individual can reduce water usage and waste.
36. List the major sources of groundwater pollution in the United States.
37. Give three possible ways in which the Clean Water Act can be made stronger.
38. Contrast primary and secondary air pollutants and identify their sources.
39. Name four sources of indoor air pollution and list ways to eliminate this type of
pollution.
40. Discuss acid deposition and give three ways to prevent it.
41. List and describe three deficiencies in the Clean Air Act according to environmental
scientists.
42. Name three major greenhouse gases and list the human sources for each gas.
43. List and describe two prevention and two cleanup methods for slowing global
warming.
44. Identify the role of stratospheric ozone and list chemicals that are responsible for
depleting it.
45. List four possible effects of ozone depletion.
46. List four ways that you can reduce exposure to UV radiation.
BIO 130- Introduction to Forensic Pathology
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Be able to describe and apply the concepts of cellular injury in relation to the human
body’s organs, tissues, and overall physiology.
2. Explain the effects of inflammation, healing, and fever on the physiologic functions of
the human body.
3. Show evidence of understanding the biological effects of trauma on the human body
including the effects of blood loss, tissue damage, and edema.
4. Understand the various types and classes of tumors affecting regions of the body and
their effects on the physiologic processes of the organs and organ systems of the body.
5. Be able to describe the dysfunctions of the organs and organ systems including the
gastrointestinal, renal, reproductive, central nervous system and hepatic organs.
BIO 145- General Botany
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Label appropriate diagrams with the correct terms for the light reactions and dark
reactions of photosynthesis.
2. Write a balanced equation for photosynthesis using molecular formulas.
3. List the important consequences of eukaryotic photosynthesis for life activities on
Earth.
4. Describe the structures and functions of a variety of plant cells.
5. List the main primary plant tissues and describe each and label each tissue in a
diagram.
6. Diagram and label the major differences in illustration of fern, gymnosperm, monocot
and dicot roots, stems and leaves.
7. Discuss the ecological importance of cyanobacteria and their basic composition.
8. List and discuss the three primary fungal phyla, their life cycles and basic structures.
9. List the major algal phyla and the unique pigments, cell wall materials, storage
products and internal structure of each.
10. Diagram the life cycles and identify important structures of selected green, brown and
red algae.
11. Diagram the life cycles and identify important structures of plant-like protists such as
euglenoids, dinoflagellates and diatoms.
12. List and describe the various groups of bryophytes and diagram and label life cycles
of a moss and a liverwort.
13. List and describe the various groups of living or extant lycophytes and diagram and
label life cycles of a club moss and a resurrection plant.
14. List and describe the various groups of extant pteridophytes and diagram and label life
cycles of a fern and a horsetail.
15. List and describe the various groups of extant gymnosperms and diagram and label the
life cycle of a pine.
16. List and describe the various groups of extant angiosperms and diagram and label the
life cycle of a flowering plant.
17. Construct a table listing characteristics which differentiate bryophytes from algae,
from pteridophytes, from gymnosperms and from angiosperms and indicate which
groups are considered to be plants and why.
18. Describe the histological, morphological and physiological characteristics of roots.
19. Describe the histological, morphological and physiological characteristics of stems.
20. Describe the histological, morphological and physiological characteristics of leaves.
21. Describe the histological, morphological and physiological characteristics of flowers,
fruits and seeds.
BIO 155- General Biology I
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Describe the general mechanism by which evolution occurs and the roles of various
people in developing the current theory of evolution.
2. Describe the “scientific method” and list the steps commonly used in this method.
3. Explain the atomic theory of matter and use the formal terms for subatomic particles
and describe how they relate to chemical bonding, energy states and changes in
matter.
4. Diagram the water molecule indicating its polarity and illustrate how a group of water
molecules interact among themselves and other substances via hydrogen bonding.
5. Define cohesion, adhesion, surface tension, capillary action, wetting capacity,
imbibition, specific heat, heat of vaporization and heat of fusion.
6. Discuss the solvent capacity of water versus nonpolar solvents.
7. Diagram the covalent bonding patterns in the group of organic molecules illustrated in
class including: monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides, triglycerides,
waxes, steroids, phospholipids, glycolipids, amino acids, peptides, and nucleic acid
components.
8. Compare and contrast prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function.
9. List the eukaryotic organelles and describe the structure and function of each.
10. Name the several types of microscopes and provide an explanation of the advantages
of each.
11. Discuss the fluid mosaic model of membrane structure and list and describe the major
components of the cell membrane.
12. Explain why the surface area to volume ratio limits cell size and effects transport in
cells.
13. Define the following: water potential, hydrostatic pressure, bulk flow, diffusion,
concentration gradient, dynamic equilibrium, selective permeability, osmosis, osmotic
potential, plasmolysis, endocytosis and exocytosis.
14. Describe the first and second laws of thermodynamics and explain their significance
to the nonliving and living world.
15. Define “enzyme” and explain how enzymes function to lower the energy of activation
and increases the rate of biochemical reactions.
16. Explain the roles of oxidation and reduction in the synthesis of ATP by glycolysis and
respiration.
17. Define and describe the role of chemiosmotic coupling in the formation of ATP in the
mitochondria.
18. Draw a single diagram including the wavelengths, relative energy content and colors
of visible light.
19. Diagram Photosystem I and Photosystem II indicating organelles involved and the
energy levels of reactants and products of the light reactions of photosynthesis.
20. Explain the differences between the light and dark reactions of photosynthesis.
21. Draw and compare the exponential and sigmoid population growth curves and explain
how each applies to organism’s life cycles, population crashes and carrying capacity.
22. Give several examples of density-dependent and density-independent factors and
compare and contrast opportunistic and prudent life history patterns.
23. Place the various trophic levels in the appropriate producer, consumer, detritivore
orders and list specific organism examples at each trophic level.
24. Describe the non-cycling of energy and the cycling of major nutrients in the
biogeochemical processes of ecosystems.
25. Define the following: population, community, ecosystem, biome and biosphere.
26. Describe the climatic conditions of major terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and list
examples of organisms in each system and explain their adaptations to the system.
27. Define these types of symbiosis: mutualism, commensalism, parasitism.
28. Define niche and distinguish between generalist and specialist species.
29. Define succession and distinguish between primary and secondary.
30. Discuss predator/prey interactions.
BIO 156- General Biology II
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Contrast prokaryotic binary fission and eukaryotic cell division.
2. List the five major phases of the eukaryotic cell cycle and describe what occurs during
each phase.
3. List the four major stages of mitosis and describe what occurs during each stage.
4. Define cytokinesis and indicate some cases where it does not occur.
5. List the ways in which meiosis is similar to and different from mitosis.
6. List the eight major stages of meiosis and describe what occurs during each including
synapsis and crossing-over.
7. Compare and contrast asexual and sexual reproduction.
8. Name and explain Mendel’s first and second laws of genetics.
9. Calculate offspring ratios of monohybrid and dihybrid crosses involving dominant and
recessive alleles.
10. Explain how Mendel’s principles/laws were found to be adhered to for other traits in
other organisms than the garden pea in the twentieth century studies and how various
modifications in Mendelian ratios came about.
11. Compare the behavior of Mendelian factors with chromosome behavior.
12. Describe the origin of alleles by mutation and the role of mutations and changes in
chromosomal structure in determining genetic traits.
13. Discuss the evidence that DNA and not protein is the genetic material.
14. Describe the structure of DNA and the mechanism of its replication.
15. Discuss the evidence that DNA determines what types of proteins are produced.
16. Describe in detail the transcription and translation of the DNA code.
17. Explain the structure and function of the operon in prokaryotic gene activity.
18. List the differences in prokaryotic DNA organization and eukaryotic DNA
organization.
19. Contrast the regulation of prokaryotic genes with the regulation of eukaryotic genes.
20. Discuss the role of plasmids in carrying genetic information and in transferring
genetic information from one prokaryotic cell to another.
21. Describe the structure and life cycles of viruses and their roles in exchanging genetic
information among cells and promoting cancer.
22. Explain how DNA sequences are exchanged among prokaryotic cells.
23. List methods of classification used to reflect genetic relationships among organisms
with application of binomial nomenclature, taxa and categories.
24. Contrast homologous and analogous structures.
25. Describe the biological system of classification including the three domains and the
six kingdoms.
26. Describe molecular taxonomic techniques such as amino acid sequences, nucleotide
sequences and DNA/DNA hybridization.
27. Discuss the use of phylogenetic trees to establish the evolutionary relationships
between species.
28. Describe the use of the taxonomic method cladistics and the establishment of clades.
29. Describe and discuss the structural, functional, life history and ecological
characteristics of prokaryotes and eukaryotes (protists, fungi, plants and animals).
30. Discuss human evolution and recent fossil finds.
BIO 160- Introduction to Forensic Toxicology: Poisons, Drugs, and Death
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Describe the methods used by toxicologists to identify drugs and assess the quantity of
drugs in the human body.
2. Discuss the collection of drug evidence from a crime scene and from the human body.
3. Discuss the effects of various poisons on the human body.
4. Name and identify common illicit drugs and assess their physiological effects on the
human body.
5. Discuss the effects of various heavy metals on the human body.
6. Discuss the effects of prescription analgesic drugs on the human body and their
toxicity.
7. Discuss the effects of various pesticides on the human body along with similar
chemicals used in warfare.
8. Describe and name toxic plants, fungi, and animals and discuss the effects of their
poisons on the human body.
9. Discuss the effects and damage from various medications on the human heart
10. Describe the effects on anticoagulant medications on blood clotting in the human
body.
11. Describe the effects of chemicals on the human lung.
12. Assess the effects of various drugs on the human nervous system and brain.
13. Name various anesthetics and understand their potentially harmful effects on the
human body.
14. Describe the effects of various drugs and poisons on the human liver.
BIO 171- Anatomy and Physiology I
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Explain the basic characteristics of life.
2. Explain the underlying principle of homeostasis.
3. Describe the structural and functional features of the basic molecules that comprise
the human body.
4. Identify the structural components of the animal cell.
5. Discuss the basic physiological activities of the animal cell.
6. Describe the structural components of the integumentary system.
7. Explain the physiological functions of the integumentary system.
8. Describe the structural components of the skeletal system.
9. Explain the physiological functions of the skeletal system.
10. Describe the structural components of the muscular system.
11. Explain the physiological functions of the muscular system.
12. Describe the structural components of the nervous system.
13. Explain the physiological functions of the nervous system.
14. Describe the structural components of the endocrine system.
15. Explain the physiological functions of the endocrine system.
16. Exemplify structural relationships between the integumentary, skeletal, muscular,
nervous, and endocrine systems.
17. Exemplify functional relationships between the integumentary, skeletal, muscular,
nervous, and endocrine systems.
18. Compare and contrast the functions of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous,
and endocrine systems.
19. Demonstrate proper use and care of a binocular compound microscope.
20. Explain the importance of the HCO3-/H2CO3 chemical reaction to the human body.
21. Describe the process of cellular reproduction.
22. Recognize examples of specific human/mammalian tissue types.
23. Predict functions of specific tissue types based upon structure.
24. Identify specific macroscopic structural components of the skeletal system.
25. Recognize structural and functional relationships between structures of the skeletal
system.
26. Relate specific structural components of the muscular system to function.
27. Identify specific macroscopic structural components of the muscular system.
28. Recognize structural and functional relationships between structures of the Skeletal
and muscular systems.
29. Recognize macroscopic structures of the organs of special senses.
30. Recognize macroscopic structures of the brain.
31. Describe functions of the macroscopic structures of the brain.
32. Synthesize a formal laboratory report.
BIO 172- Anatomy and Physiology II
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Identify the structural components of the cardiovascular system.
2. Explain the basic physiological functions of the cardiovascular system.
3. Identify the structural components of the lymphatic system.
4. Explain the basic physiological functions of the lymphatic system.
5. Identify the structural components of the respiratory system.
6. Explain the basic physiological functions of the respiratory system.
7. Identify the structural components of the digestive system.
8. Explain the basic physiological functions of the digestive system.
9. Identify the structural components of the urinary system.
10. Explain the basic physiological functions of the urinary system.
11. Identify and define the structural components of the reproductive system.
12. Identify and explain the basic physiological functions of the reproductive system.
13. Explain the basic physiological principles of metabolism.
14. Explain the basic physiological principles of fluid, electrolyte, and acid/base balance.
15. Explain the effects of various fluid, electrolyte and acid/base imbalances
16. Exemplify the structural relationships between the cardiovascular, lymphatic,
respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
17. Exemplify the functional relationships between cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory,
digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
18. Compare and contrast the functions of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory,
digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
19. Exemplify negative and positive feedback mechanisms in each of the systems
discussed.
20. Predict effects given mechanisms of action of various drugs.
21. Demonstrate proper use and care of a binocular compound microscope.
22. Demonstrate proper hand washing technique.
23. Demonstrate the proper method of removal and disposal of gloves.
24. Identify specific macroscopic structural components of the heart.
25. Relate structural features of the heart to the function of the heart.
26. Explain the relationship between cardiac output, heart rate and stroke volume due to
prolonged standing.
27. Explain the significance of the waves and segments of an electrocardiogram.
28. Explain clinical relevance of physiological tests completed, including: a complete
blood count, electrocardiogram, respiratory volumes and capacities; percent vital
capacity, forced expiratory volume, blood glucose analysis and urinalysis.
29. Explain the rational for use of percent change.
30. Explain clinical relevance of physiological tests conducted.
31. Exemplify importance of detail in laboratory experimentation.
32. Differentiate use of line graphs vs. bar graphs.
33. Synthesize a formal laboratory report.
BIO 180- Introduction to Pathology
This course has not been taught in the last five years; it has largely been replaced by BIO
130, but remains in the catalog to emphasize the difference between a forensics-based
pathology course and a biology-based pathology course. There no discussion about
resuming this course at the current time.
BIO 210- Zoology
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Explain the position of a group in the animal kingdom.
2. Identify the characteristics that distinguish one group from another.
3. Discuss the shared properties of living systems within the animal kingdom.
4. Discuss the structural levels of organization of animal body plans.
5. Compare anatomy and physiological function among various members of the animal
kingdom.
6. Discuss the relationship of animal distribution and the environment.
BIO 265- Microbiology
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. List several ways in which microbes affect our lives.
2. Differentiate among the major characteristics of each group of microorganisms.
3. Define bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, and virology.
4. Explain the importance of recombinant DNA technology.
5. List at least four beneficial activities of microorganisms.
6. List two examples of biotechnology that use recombinant DNA technology and two
examples that do not.
7. Define normal microbiota and resistance.
8. Define and describe several infectious diseases.
9. Compare and contrast the overall cell structure of prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
10. Identify the three basic shapes of bacteria.
11. Describe the structure and function of the glycocalyx, flagella, axial filaments,
fimbriae, and pili.
12. Compare and contrast the cell walls of gram-positive bacteria and gram-negative
bacteria.
13. Describe the structure, chemistry, and functions of the prokaryotic plasma membrane.
14. Define simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, osmosis, active transport, and group
translocation.
15. Identify the functions of the nuclear area, ribosomes, and inclusions.
16. Describe the functions of endospores, sporulation, and endospore germination.
17. Differentiate between prokaryotic and eukaryotic flagella.
18. Describe prokaryotic cell walls and glycocalyxes.
19. Describe prokaryotic plasma membranes.
20. Describe prokaryotic cytoplasms.
21. Compare the structure and function of eukaryotic and prokaryotic ribosomes.
22. Define organelle.
23. Define metabolism, and describe the fundamental differences between anabolism and
catabolism.
24. Identify the role of ATP as an intermediate between catabolism and anabolism.
25. Identify the components of an enzyme.
26. Describe the mechanism of enzymatic action.
27. List the factors that influence enzymatic activity.
28. Explain what is meant by oxidation-reduction.
29. List and provide examples of three types of phosphorylation reactions that generate
ATP.
30. Explain the overall function of metabolic pathways.
31. Describe the chemical reactions of glycolysis.
32. Explain the products of the Krebs cycle.
33. Describe the chemiosmotic model for ATP generation.
34. Compare and contrast aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
35. Describe two examples of the use of biochemical tests to identify bacteria in the
laboratory.
36. Write a sentence to summarize energy production in cells.
37. Categorize the various nutritional patterns among organisms according to carbon
source and mechanisms of carbohydrate catabolism and ATP generation.
38. Describe the major types of anabolism and their relationship to catabolism.
39. Classify microbes into five groups on the basis of preferred temperature range.
40. Identify why the pH of culture media is controlled.
41. Explain the importance of osmotic pressure to microbial growth.
42. Provide a use for each of the four elements (carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus)
needed in large amounts for growth.
43. Explain how microbes are classified on the basis of oxygen requirements.
44. Identify ways in which aerobes avoid damage by toxic forms of oxygen.
45. Define colony.
46. Describe how pure cultures can be isolated by using the streak plate method.
47. Define bacterial growth, including binary fission.
48. Define the following key terms related to microbial control: sterilization, disinfection,
antisepsis, degerming, sanitization, biocide, germicide, bacteriostasis, and asepsis.
49. Describe the patterns of microbial death caused by treatments with microbial control
agents.
50. Describe the effects of microbial control agents on cellular structures.
51. Compare the effectiveness of moist heat (boiling, autoclaving, pasteurization) and dry
heat.
52. Describe how filtration, low temperature, high pressure, desiccation, and osmotic
pressure suppress microbial growth.
53. Explain how radiation kills cells.
54. List the factors related to effective disinfection.
55. Explain how the control of microbial growth is affected by the type of microbe.
56. Define genetics, genome, chromosome, gene, genetic code, genotype, and phenotype.
57. Describe how DNA serves as genetic information.
58. Describe the process of DNA replication.
59. Describe protein synthesis, including transcription and translation.
60. Describe a way mutations can be repaired.
61. Describe the functions of plasmids.
62. Compare and contrast biotechnology, genetic modification, and recombinant DNA
technology.
63. Define restriction enzymes, and outline how they are used to make recombinant DNA.
64. Outline the steps in PCR, and provide an example of its use.
65. Explain how DNA probes are used to locate a clone.
66. Diagram DNA fingerprinting, and provide an example of its use.
67. Differentiate among eukaryotic, prokaryotic, and viral species.
68. Explain the purpose of Bergey’s Manual.
69. Describe how staining and biochemical tests are used to identify bacteria.
70. Explain how serological tests and phage typing can be used to identify an unknown
bacterium.
71. Describe how a newly discovered microbe can be classified by DNA base
composition, DNA fingerprinting, and PCR.
72. Describe how microorganisms can be identified by nucleic acid hybridization.
73. List two factors that contribute to the limits of our knowledge of microbial diversity.
74. Differentiate a virus from a bacterium.
75. Describe the chemical and physical structure of both an enveloped and a
nonenveloped virus.
76. Define viral species.
77. List three techniques used to identify viruses.
78. Describe the lytic cycle of bacteriophages.
79. Describe the lysogenic cycle of bacteriophages.
80. Describe the multiplication cycle of animal viruses.
81. Discuss the relationship between viruses and cancer.
82. Provide an example of a latent viral infection.
83. Define pathology, etiology, infection, and disease.
84. Define normal flora and transient microbiota.
85. Compare commensalism, mutualism, parasitism, and give an example of each.
86. Compare normal and transient microbiota with opportunistic microorganisms.
87. Differentiate a communicable from a noncommunicable disease.
88. Categorize diseases according to frequency of occurrence.
89. Categorize diseases according to severity.
90. Identify four predisposing factors for disease.
91. Explain three methods of disease transmission.
92. Define nosocomial infections, and explain their importance.
93. Define compromised host.
94. List several methods of disease transmission in hospitals.
95. Explain how nosocomial infections can be prevented.
96. List several probable reasons for emerging infectious diseases.
97. Identify the principal portals of entry.
98. Using examples, explain how microbes adhere to host cells.
99. Explain how capsules and cell wall components contribute to pathogenicity.
100. Contrast the nature and effects of exotoxins and endotoxins.
101. Compare and contrast portal of entry and portal of exit.
102. Differentiate between innate and adaptive immunity.
103. Describe the role of the skin and mucous membranes in innate immunity.
104. Differentiate physical from chemical factors, and list five examples of each.
105. Describe the role of normal flora in innate immunity.
106. Classify phagocytic cells, and describe the roles of granulocytes and monocytes.
107. Define phagocyte and phagocytosis.
108. Describe the process of phagocytosis, and include the stages of adherence and
ingestion.
109. List the stages of inflammation.
110. Describe the role of vasodilation in inflammation.
BIO 275- Biochemistry
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Identify the key classes of biomolecules
2. Explain the central dogma of molecular genetics
3. Compare and contrast eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells
4. Identify the crucial roles water plays in biochemical interactions
5. Explain the types of noncovalent, reversible interactions and their importance in
biochemistry
6. List the advantages of having 20 different amino acids
7. Identify the main classes of amino acids
8. Describe the different levels of protein structure and how they are related to one
another
9. Explain the determination of a protein’s final three-dimensional structure
10. Relate an enzyme-catalyzed reaction to the transition state of the reaction
11. Describe kinetic activity and the usefulness of this method
12. Determine what environmental factors affect enzyme activity
13. Explain the key properties of allosteric proteins and how they are elucidated by
hemoglobin
14. Differentiate between monosaccharides and polysaccharides in regard to structure and
function
15. Differentiate between proteoglycans and glycoproteins in regard to structure and
function
16. Explain the key chemical properties of fatty acids
17. List the major lipids and describe their biochemical functions
18. Determine why membranes are impermeable to most substances
19. Explain the driving force for membrane formation
20. Explain how proteins function to make membranes selectively permeable
21. Identify the basic components of all signal-transduction pathways
22. Differentiate between the various types of membrane receptors
23. Describe how dietary proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids are digested
24. Explain how the release of pancreatic enzymes is coordinated with digestion in the
stomach
25. Explain why ATP is an energy rich molecule
26. Identify how ATP can power reactions that would otherwise not occur
27. Relate the oxidation state of a carbon molecule to its usefulness as a fuel
28. Describe how ATP is generated in glycolysis
29. Explain why the regeneration of NAD+ is crucial to fermentation
30. Describe how gluconeogenesis is powered in the cell
31. Analyze the coordination of glycolysis and gluconeogeneisis
32. Explain why the reaction catalyzed by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex a critical
junction in metabolism
33. Identify the regulation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex
34. Explain the advantage of oxidizing acetyl CoA in the citric acid cycle
35. Describe the regulation of the citric acid cycle
BIO 285- Molecular Genetics
Upon completion of this course, students will have the necessary knowledge and skills to:
1. Discuss the importance of genetics to individuals, society, and biology.
2. Describe how humans have used genetics for thousands of years.
3. List the fundamental concepts of genetics.
4. Describe the key characteristics of the genetic material.
5. Explain how all genetic information is encoded in the structure of DNA.
6. Define complementary and antiparallel nucleotide strands.
7. Describe how large amounts of DNA are packed into a cell.
8. Define a bacterial chromosome.
9. Describe how eukaryotic chromosomes are DNA complexed to histone proteins.
10. Explain the classes of sequence variation in eukaryotic DNA.
11. Construct a diagram illustrating transposable elements and their movements.
12. List the different types of transposable elements and their characteristic structures.
13. Compare and contrast hypotheses proposed to explain the evolutionary significance of
transposable elements.
14. Describe DNA replication and recombination.
15. Tell the role of the various types of RNA in transcription.
16. Define the properties of the genetic material.
17. Describe the structure of DNA.
18. Explain the process of DNA replication.
19. Detail the steps in moving from RNA to protein.
20. Explain the regulation of mRNA transcription.
21. List the outcomes of the various types of mutations through sequence alteration,
changes to structural genes, and use the proper nomenclature for mutations.
22. Describe how restriction endonucleases and cloning vectors are utilized in
recombinant DNA technology.
23. Explain how to screen DNA constructs by DNA hybridization.
24. Describe the processes of in situ hybridization, chemical synthesis of DNA,
sequencing DNA, and the polymerase chain reaction.
25. Explain how human-rodent somatic cell hybrids and human DNA libraries are
constructed.
26. Compare and contrast genetic mapping and physical mapping of the human
chromosome, and perform an analysis of each type of map, including homozygosity,
linkage disequilibrium, radiation hybrid, cytogenic, genetic, and physical mapping.
27. Describe how human disease genes are discovered and cloned for research purposes.
28. Perform a similarity search of a DNA database.
Perform a Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium analysis on a human population trait.
IV.
Strategies to Achieve Results
The Biology Department has reviewed all Biology course objectives and learning outcomes,
and has completed a review to ensure that all syllabi will be in compliance with Middle States
requirements. The department has also mapped specific questions on final exams to key
learning objectives, and is developing common finals for Microbiology and General Biology.
V.
Assessment Activities
The Biology Department has two Gatekeeper courses: Biology 107 and Biology 171.
Faculty members in these courses administer a departmental final, and data is collected from
this final for analysis.
VI.
Assessment Results and Use of Results for Improvement
The Biology Department is currently developing a standardized final for Anatomy and
Physiology II; it is scheduled to be implemented for the first time in the 2012-2013 academic
year. This will provide the same data that is available for Anatomy and Physiology I, and
allow results to be used to improve the presentation of material.
VII.
Implementation of Activities other than Assessment
Progress is being made to implement standardized syllabi for all sections of all courses taught
in the department. In addition, work is ongoing to standardize the laboratory experience for
all sections, regardless of location or faculty member responsible for the course.
VIII. WCCC Strategic Plan Recommendations
A3b. Assess current technology usage at WCCC in order to maximize institutional
Operations.
A7b. Purchase software to automate the Institutional Effectiveness process.
The Biology Department will request funds to provide a scantron machine that
permits data to be entered automatically into a computer to allow data to be collected and
processed for various sections of a course. Connect will also be phased in to various
Blackboard sections, as will the use of Collaborate.
IX.
Progress of the Five Year Periodic Review Recommendations
1) The Biology Department currently holds meetings of biology faculty members minimally
twice a year; meetings are held more frequently if events warrant.
2) A value statement has been developed and graphics have been finalized. This statement is
found in the classrooms and laboratories used by biology, as well as on the back cover of
the customized Anatomy and Physiology textbook.
3) A plan has been established to begin review of part-time faculty members, particularly
those that are new to teaching, to provide guidance and opportunities for growth.
X.
Other significant comments (optional).
None.
Comments:
Dean’s Signature:
Date:
Appropriate Vice President’s
Signature
Institutional Effectiveness
Committee Chair Signature
Date:
Date:
Westmoreland County Community College
Annual Academic Discipline Review Guidelines
I.
Strengths Revealed by the Data- Discuss significant improvements in the
annual review data.
II.
Concerns Revealed by the Data- Discuss significant weaknesses in the annual
review data.
III.
Course Learning Outcomes- List each course title, course code and number for
the discipline. Under each course title, course code and number, list the
competencies that students must posses upon completion of the course. These
statements should be specific and measureable.
IV.
Strategies to Achieve Results- Discuss specific initiatives/interventions that the
discipline plans to implement that will result in a proficient level of
achievement of course learning outcomes.
V.
Assessment Activities- Describe assessment activities conducted during the
academic calendar year.
VI.
Assessment Results- Discuss the actual assessment results using both qualitative
(e.g. student focus groups, employer surveys) and quantitative data (e.g. the
standard percentage and the actual percentage).
Use of Results- Describe how the results will be used to improve course
learning outcomes.
VII.
Implementation of Activities other than Assessment- List activities other than
assessment that may be implemented within the year (or other short-term) to
address a particular concern or to facilitate improvement.
VIII.
IX.
NR9/2011
WCCC Strategic Plan Recommendations- List course recommendations that
may be incorporated into the current WCCC Strategic Plan. Identify whether it
would apply to a specific Thrust, Tactic, or Action.
Progress of the Five Year Review Recommendations- Discuss the progress
made as it relates to the five year review recommendations.