Download c5. definitive course document and course file

June 2015
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong Community College
Subject Description Form
Subject Code
CCN1106
Subject Title
Foundation Biology
Level
1
Credit Value
3
Medium of
Instruction
English
Pre-requisite /
Co-requisite/
Exclusion
Nil
Objectives
This subject aims to introduce students from various backgrounds to the
fundamental knowledge of biology which is essential for higher level of
study in a variety of biology-related disciplines.
After successful completion of this subject, students should be able to
appreciate the basic features and integrative nature of different
biological components such as cellular structure and function, genetics
and inheritance, microbiology, zoology, botany and ecology for further
study of biology at the university entry level.
Intended Learning
Outcomes
Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:
(a) understand the basic structure and functions of the cell.
(b) understand the fundamental of genetics and inheritance.
(c) comprehend the structure and relation of microbes with man and
environment.
(d) have a basic understanding of the animal and plant biology.
(e) appreciate the importance of evolution and biological diversity.
(f) be aware of the impact of human on environment and pollution.
Subject Synopsis/
Indicative Syllabus
Structure and Function of the Cell
Molecules of life: atoms and elements, proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic
acids and lipids; Heredity and genetics, basic changes during cell cycle;
Transcription of DNA and translation to protein; Enzymes, hormones
and antibodies; Cytology and histology.
Microbiology
Prokaryotes and eukaryotes; Types of micro-organisms: Gross structure
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June 2015
and classification; Mode of nutrition; Infectious diseases and
prevention; Ecological role of microbes.
Human Biology
Gross human anatomy; Physiology of basic processes: Support and
movement; Control and coordination; Circulation and respiration;
Digestion, metabolism and excretion; Regulation and homeostasis;
Reproduction and inheritance.
Animal and Plant Biology
Biology of basic and diversity of life-forms; Darwinian theory of
evolution of species; Introduction to taxonomy system; Mode of
nutrition; Food chain; Concept of biosphere.
Environment and Ecology
Population ecology: impact of human population on environment and
other biological species; Sustainable resources; Environmental pollution
and remedies; Greenhouse effect and global warming; Ozone protection
against irradiation on Earth.
Teaching/Learning
Methodology
Students will be introduced to various basic topics in biology to broaden
and explore their area of interest. Tutorials provide a venue for revision
and reinforcement of the lecture material. The tutorial activities include
discussions of tutorial questions and appreciation of the controversial
topics such as global warming, relation of microorganisms with man,
evolution and extinction of species, and the relation of science to
environment and ecology.
Assessment Methods
in Alignment with
Intended Learning
Outcomes
A variety of assessment tools will be used to develop and assess
students’ achievement of the subject intended learning outcomes.
Specific assessment
methods/tasks
%
Intended subject learning
weighting outcomes to be assessed
a
b
c
d
e
f




Continuous Assessment*
50
 Assignment I
12




 Assignment II
13




 Test
25




Final Examination
50




Total
100
*Continuous assessment items and/or weighting may be adjusted by the subject
team subject to the approval of the College Programme Committee.
To pass this subject, students are required to obtain Grade D or above in
both the Continuous Assessment and Final Examination.
Student Study
Class contact
Hours
2
June 2015
Effort Expected

Lecture
26

Tutorial
13
Other student study effort

Self-study
50

Continuous Assessment
41
Total student study effort
Reading List and
References
130
Recommended Textbooks
Simon, E.J., Dickey, J.L. & Reece, J.B. (2015). Campbell Essential
Biology with Physiology. (5th ed.), Pearson/Benjamin Cummings.
Presson, J.C. & Jenner, J., (2008). Biology: dimensions of Life. (1st ed.),
McGraw-Hill.
References
Reece, J.B., Taylor, M.R., Simon, E.J. & Dickey, J.L. (2012). Campbell
Biology: Concepts and Connections. (7th ed.), Pearson/Benjamin
Cummings.
Freeman S. (2005). Biological Science. (2nd ed.), Pearson Prentice Hall.
Raven, P.H., Johnson, G.B., Losos, J. & Singer, S. (2005). Biology.(7th
ed.), McGraw-Hill Higher Education.
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