Biology Lecture Notes (PDF)

Class Success Tips Notes created on February 3, 2025 at 5:31 PM by Minutes AI Group Discussion Instructions (00:06 - 10:03) Discuss ideas within your group before typing. Reporters will add ideas after discussion. Wi-Fi Access Issues with Wi-Fi mentioned. Username: Student ID at f...

Class Success Tips Notes created on February 3, 2025 at 5:31 PM by Minutes AI Group Discussion Instructions (00:06 - 10:03) Discuss ideas within your group before typing. Reporters will add ideas after discussion. Wi-Fi Access Issues with Wi-Fi mentioned. Username: Student ID at fullcall.edu. Password: College password for guest access. Success Strategies in Class Flashcards Important to test yourself with flashcards. Watching lecture videos Essential for passing the class. Group Collaboration Tutoring sessions with Muhammad Creating a group chat Helps hold each other accountable. Time Management Essential for success in Bio 170. Recommended study time: double the class hours. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Use a planner Write down assignments and structure time effectively. Office Hours Encouragement to attend office hours for additional help. Office Hours and Help (10:03 - 19:55) Encourage students to reach out for advice and assistance. Emphasize the importance of attending office hours and asking for help. Flipped Class Format Students need to prepare before class. Watch lecture videos. Read the textbook (recommended order: textbook first, then lecture videos, then class). Attendance and participation are critical. Just being present is not enough; active participation is required. Class Participation Students will engage in discussions and activities during class. Missing classes can lead to a drop in exam scores (10% drop noted). Health Considerations Students should not attend class if they are sick. Notify the instructor if sick or if testing positive for COVID-19. Limited opportunities to attend via Zoom for emergencies. Note Taking These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Importance of taking good notes. Notes should be understandable, not just copied from videos. Include questions and summaries in notes. Organization of notes is key. Use headings, indentations, and symbols for clarity. Textbook Reading Read the assigned textbook chapter before watching lecture videos. Recommended to chunk study sessions (e.g., 20 minutes at a time). Synthesizing Information Combine information from various sources (textbook, videos, notes). Create summaries of notes soon after class for better retention. Active Study Techniques Emphasize practice testing as an effective study method. Engage in active behaviors while studying (writing, drawing, discussing). Utilize study questions at the end of textbook sections and chapters. Study Questions (19:55 - 29:53) Lecture slides PDF contains a slide titled "Study Questions." Approximately 10 prompts for practice. Recommended to answer as essay prompts. Essay Writing Writing essays is essential for exams. Practice writing essays in response to study questions weekly. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Students who excel in the class engage in this practice. Active Retrieval Active retrieval enhances learning and understanding. Study shows that recalling definitions improves learning. Spaced repetition is more effective than massed practice. Conceptual Understanding Active practice is crucial for conceptual understanding. Students who created concept maps performed reasonably well. Those who engaged in retrieval practice scored significantly higher. Seeking Help Utilize available resources for support. Instructor is available for questions before and during class. Peer support from classmates and tutoring sessions is encouraged. Engagement in Class Importance of participation and engagement. Focus on additional explanations and examples, not just slide text. Opportunities for discussion and feedback will be provided. Definition of Biology Biology defined as the study of life. Breakdown of the word: "bio" means life, "logi" means study of knowledge. Exploration of what constitutes "life." Discussion on characteristics that differentiate living things from non-living things. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai) Discussion on Living Organisms (29:55 - 39:54) Plants and movement "Some things don't need to breathe." Characteristics of Nico (cat) vs. Roomba Growth and development "Miko was little when I got him. Then he became middle aged and now he's a very old single man." Genes and DNA Linked to growth and reproduction. Processing energy Nico digests kibble and produces waste. Properties of Living Things Seven features of living things Structural organization Response to the environment Energy processing or metabolism Self-regulation or homeostasis Important note on evolution "Individuals don't evolve. Populations evolve." Roomba vs. Living Organisms Structural organization Roomba has a design that serves a purpose. Response to the environment Roomba detects obstacles and adjusts its path. Energy processing These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Roomba converts electricity to mechanical movement. "It is taking in electricity and then converting that electricity to mechanical movement." Energy Processing (39:54 - 49:52) Converting energy from one form to another is energy processing. Homeostasis Homeostasis involves mechanisms that respond to changes, such as overheating. Example: A computer increases fan speed to cool down when overheating. Example: A Roomba returns to its station to charge when battery is low. Growth and Development Some Roombas can have software updates, indicating a form of development. Basic models may not have updates, while advanced models connect to the Internet. Reproduction Roombas cannot reproduce. Future technology may allow devices to 3D print new versions of themselves. Characteristics of Living Organisms Living organisms must exhibit all properties to be considered alive. Viruses traditionally not regarded as living due to lack of reproduction and metabolism. Structural Organization All organisms, except viruses, are made of cells. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Cells can be prokaryotic (no nucleus) or eukaryotic (with nucleus). Organisms can be unicellular or multicellular. Unicellular organisms perform all life functions in one cell. Multicellular organisms have specialized cells for different functions. Hierarchical Structure Organisms are built hierarchically from atoms to multicellular organisms. Atoms form molecules, which form cells. Cells form tissues, which form organs. Tissues and Organs Tissue is defined as a group of specialized cells. An organ is a group of tissues performing a functional role. Example: Heart as an organ made of muscle tissue. Tissues and Organs (49:53 - 59:40) Tissues are a grouping of cells of the same type. Example: Muscle tissue is made up of muscle cells; nervous tissue is made up of neurons. Organs are groupings of multiple tissues with a single function. Example: The heart contains muscle tissue, blood tissue, nervous tissue, and connective tissue. Hierarchical Organization Smaller parts build up into larger parts. Atoms → Molecules → Cells → Tissues → Organs → Organisms. Above the organism level, the hierarchy continues. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Includes populations, communities, and ecosystems. Definitions Population: A group of organisms of the same species at the same place and time. Community: All the populations in a particular area, consisting of varying species. Ecosystem: Living organisms plus non-living factors (abiotic) of the environment. Emergent Properties Emergent properties arise at each new level of the hierarchy. Example: Neurons alone do not have complex functions, but when arranged as nervous tissue, they can perform functions like memory. Evolution is an emergent property of populations. Individuals do not evolve; populations do. Life is an emergent property of cells. Atoms and molecules are not alive, but cells are capable of homeostasis. Introduction to Boxing (1:00:05 - 1:10:03) Speaker got into boxing in 2019. Took a boxing course with a different coach than Coach Austin. Speaker has a wrestling background. Concern about boxing against shorter opponents. Desire for fluidity in boxing. Class Structure and Schedule Acknowledgment of a long first day compared to typical college classes. Appreciation for students' attention and engagement. Mention of upcoming holidays: President's Day and Memorial Day. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Comparison of class time with Tuesday-Thursday classes. Living Things and Structural Organization First point: living things have structural organization. Second point: response to the environment. Environment provides stimuli, which organisms respond to. Responses involve physiological changes in the organism's body. Examples of Physiological Responses Example of a cat's responses. Pupils dilate to let in more light. Ears rotate to indicate sound direction. Example of plant responses. Plants grow towards sunlight for photosynthesis. Plants can detect gravity and grow upwards. Energy Processing All organisms capture and convert energy from the environment. Energy is used for biological work: movement, growth, reproduction, homeostasis. Energy processing occurs at various levels: cells, organisms, ecosystems. Photosynthesis in plants captures energy, which is transferred through the food chain. Homeostasis Definition: keeping internal conditions constant despite external fluctuations. Example: body temperature remains stable despite external temperature changes. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Importance of homeostasis for optimal cellular function. Requires energy to maintain homeostasis. Not all organisms maintain homeostasis in the same way. Example: humans maintain temperature homeostasis, while snakes do not. Homeostasis (1:10:03 - 1:20:02) Examples of homeostasis in the body: Temperature regulation Blood clotting Sweating Urination and defecation Urine characteristics: Clear and dilute when hydrated Dark and concentrated when dehydrated Other factors in homeostasis: Glucose and insulin regulation Breathing for oxygen and carbon dioxide balance Reproductive cycles, hunger, and thirst Growth and Development, Reproduction, and Evolution Genetic information: Used for growth and development Used for reproduction Enables evolution DNA processes: DNA is transcribed into RNA RNA is translated into polypeptides These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Polypeptides fold into proteins Role of proteins: Enzymes catalyze chemical reactions Proteins involved in immune response, transport, and structure Gene Expression and Traits Alleles: Different versions of a gene with varying DNA sequences Example of pea flowers: Purple allele produces an enzyme for purple pigment Absence of the purple allele results in white flowers Growth vs. Development: Growth: getting bigger Development: changing traits without altering DNA DNA Replication and Mutations DNA replication: Not always perfect Can result in mutations Mutations: Changes in DNA sequence during replication Critical for evolution and new traits DNA and Gene Expression (1:20:02 - 1:30:01) The process of copying DNA is separate from gene expression. Mistakes can occur during transcription and translation. Mutations typically arise from mistakes in DNA replication. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai) Origin of Cells All cells come from previously existing cells. Cells do not appear out of nowhere; they arise from cell division. All cells in the body originated from one cell, the zygote. Common Ancestry All living things share a common ancestor. This ancestor is believed to have existed around four and a half billion years ago. Evolutionary changes result from mutations over time. Evolution Defined as change in the genetic makeup of a population over time. Evolution is an emergent property of populations, not individuals. Reproduction is necessary for evolutionary change. Individuals cannot evolve; evolution occurs across generations. Adaptation Adaptation is an evolutionary change that increases survival and reproduction. Not all evolution is adaptive; some changes may not enhance survival. Populations adapt, not individuals. Individuals may survive or not, but adaptation occurs at the population level. Significance of Evolution Evolution helps understand the unity and diversity of life. All life is descended from a common ancestor. Diversity arises from mutations and varying trait inheritance over time. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai) Class Discussion (1:30:02 - 1:40:01) Speaker discusses their experience with classes. Mentioned taking physics and feeling unprepared due to a long gap since math classes. Expressed uncertainty about remembering previous math and chemistry concepts. Another student shares their background in chemistry. Currently enrolled in Gen Chem 2 after a long break from Gen Chem 1. Discussed challenges with class transfers and prerequisites. Scientific Method Overview Speaker introduces the scientific method. Emphasizes the importance of understanding the natural world. Defines science as a way of understanding based on observable, testable, and repeatable evidence. Key components of scientific evidence. Evidence must be accumulated, observable, testable, and repeatable. Accumulation of evidence is crucial for drawing conclusions. Steps of the Scientific Method Initial step involves making observations. Observations can be made with senses or scientific instruments. Data is categorized as qualitative (descriptive) or quantitative (numerical). Example discussion among students about types of data. Qualitative examples: hair color, preferences. Quantitative examples: number of students, measurements. Measuring Color (1:40:02 - 1:50:01) These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Color can be described qualitatively with adjectives. Quantitative measurement methods include: RGB or hex code on a computer. Spectrometries in chemistry (e.g., measuring wavelength like 550nm or 700nm). Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data Qualitative data examples: Shape (e.g., round, pointy, blunt). Texture (e.g., rough, smooth). Quantitative data examples: Temperature (measured in degrees Celsius). Speed, velocity, mass, weight, size (e.g., in millimeters). Observations and Hypotheses Observations lead to questions. Example: "Why are our amphibian populations declining?" A hypothesis is a potential explanation for the question posed. Must be a statement, not a question. Should contain an explanation for the observation. Testing Hypotheses A good scientific hypothesis must be: Testable, generating predictions that can be measured. Falsifiable, meaning it can be proven wrong. Example of a non-falsifiable hypothesis: "There are mermaids in the ocean" cannot be definitively proven false. Predictions These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Predictions are specific results expected from testing a hypothesis. Example: Hypothesis: Exposure to atrazine causes reproductive abnormalities. Prediction: Tadpoles exposed to atrazine will develop reproductive issues. Controlled Experiments vs. Observational Studies (1 50 01 - 1 59 59) Controlled experiments involve manipulating conditions. You are changing and altering things in the experiment. Observational studies do not involve manipulation. You are simply taking observations without changing anything. Observational studies are more natural and representative of real-world conditions. Controlled experiments allow for stronger conclusions. They control for other variables that may influence results. Importance of Reproducibility Experiments must be specifically designed to be reproducible. Accumulation of repeatable evidence is essential. Observational studies also require specific design for reproducibility. Example of Experiment with Amphibians Hypothesis: Exposure to atrazine causes reproductive abnormalities. Controlled experiment involves manipulating levels of atrazine. Observational version involves measuring atrazine levels in natural ponds. Variables in Experiments Independent variable: The factor being tested (e.g., levels of atrazine). These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai) : : : :  Dependent variable: The response measured (e.g., presence of reproductive abnormalities). "Dependence depends on independent." Control in Experiments Controlled experiments eliminate variables not being tested. Ensures that results are not affected by other factors. Control group provides a baseline for comparison. Allows assessment of the independent variable's effect. Identifying Controls Important controls to consider: Consistent feeding across all subjects. Same species to eliminate species-related variables. Constant temperature, as it can affect development. Other factors to control: Water conditions (dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity). Density of subjects in the experiment. Experiment Overview (1:59:59 - 2:09:59) Discussion on the poll and data collection. Explanation of PPB (parts per billion) as a measurement of atrazine in water. Control group defined as the baseline for comparison of reproductive abnormalities. Treatment Groups Three treatment groups identified: One control group with no atrazine. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Two experimental groups with varying levels of atrazine (low and high). Data Analysis Importance of data analysis after experiments. Involves creating graphs, tables, and running statistics. Graph representation: Independent variable on the x-axis. Dependent variable on the y-axis. Hypothesis Testing Initial hypothesis: "Exposure to atrazine causes reproductive abnormalities." Results indicated that treatments with atrazine had more abnormalities than the control. Control group had some abnormalities, highlighting the need for a control. Scientific Method and Future Research Results supported the hypothesis but raised new questions. Noted that the relationship between atrazine levels and abnormalities was not proportional. Emphasis on the iterative nature of science. Future experiments may yield different results. Community and Goals in Science Importance of community in science: Sharing results at conferences and through publications. Engaging in discussions and debates to accumulate evidence. Specific goals in scientific research: Addressing issues like biodiversity decline and developing vaccines. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai) Iterative Nature of Science (2:09:59 - 2:19:56) Science is an iterative process that involves continuous testing of new ideas. It is self-correcting and adjusts based on new evidence. Scientists must be open to being wrong. Ideas considered correct may change with new evidence. Importance of Consensus Accumulation of evidence leads to scientific consensus. A single study or idea is insufficient; many studies are needed to support a hypothesis. Definitions in Science **Fact**: Synonymous with data; objective and verifiable observations. **Hypothesis**: A tentative explanation for observed patterns. It is a guess about the cause of a pattern. **Theory**: A broad hypothesis that has been extensively tested and supported. "A theory is actually as sure as we get about anything in science." Examples of Theories **Cell Theory**: All organisms are made of cells. **Germ Theory**: Microbes can cause disease. **Theory of Evolution**: Supported by extensive evidence. Understanding Laws and Variables **Law**: A pattern without explanation; lacks a hypothesis. **Independent Variable**: The cause in an experiment. **Dependent Variable**: The effect in an experiment. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)  Example: "Growth depends on fertilizer." Experimental Design Example Hypothesis: "Fertilizer improves plant growth." Independent Variable: Fertilizer. Dependent Variable: Plant growth (e.g., height). Example Hypothesis: "Taking notes by hand improves learning." Independent Variable: Type of note-taking. Dependent Variable: Test scores. Homework (2:19:56 - 2:29:56) Study questions are at the end of every lecture. This week: Get the textbook and start reading. Watch lecture two (30 minutes) and fill out the vocab sheet on Canvas. Watch the first half of lecture three (videos A through D, 47 minutes). Notes on lecture three due Wednesday at 7 30 PM. In class on Wednesday: Review lecture two. Work time to finish lecture three. Bring headphones if watching videos in class. Lab Information Lab preparation: Read the lab document for background information. Look at lab material before coming to lab. Field trips: These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai) :  Required trip to Del Mar tide pools on either Friday, March 14th or Saturday, March 15th. Second field trip to be completed on your own time. Lab reports: Must be entirely your own work. Weekly lab reports due Sunday night at midnight. Five lab quizzes covering previous labs, all free response. Lab Safety Required attire: Closed toe shoes are mandatory starting next week; no sandals or clogs. Long pants recommended but not required. Hair and accessories: Long hair must be tied back fully. Avoid dangling items like sleeves, scarves, or hoodie strings. Lab Conduct (2:29:56 - 2:34:04) Streamlined body required in lab. No food or drink in the classroom starting Wednesday. No cosmetics, chapstick, gum, or mints allowed. Closed-lid drinks permitted during lecture only. Transition from Lecture to Lab All drinks must be put away in bags during lab. Pack up non-lab items before lab. Place bags in cubbies under desks. No items on the floor to prevent tripping hazards. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai) Safety Procedures Report any broken items immediately. Use caution with scalpels and heat. Emergency contacts and procedures located by the door. Emergency Equipment Eyewash station and emergency shower available. First aid kit accessible; report injuries to instructor. Broken glass must be disposed of in designated box. Fire Safety Two fire extinguishers: yellow for metal and structure fires, red for general use. Red extinguisher is for emergencies only. Cleanup and Evacuation Desks must be left clear and clean after labs. Evacuation meeting point is on the lawn in front of the building. These notes were taken with Minutes AI (https://myminutes.ai)