BIOL 202 Principles of Genetics

School of University Arts and Sciences

BIOL 202 Principles of Genetics. This course provides the student with a knowledge of classical and reverse genetics. Topics covered include Mendelian inheritance, chromosome theory of heredity, sex determination, mutation, the structure and function of genes, molecular genetics, and the genetic structure of populations. Experimental techniques used in molecular genetics are also introduced.

Prerequisites: BIOL 104 and BIOL 106 both with a minimum grade of 60%.

Accessibility Services Notice

Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – YesBlock Transfer – Nobctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours67.5
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture3
Lab (lab, field, computer)1.5

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Apply problem-solving, and scientific reasoning skills to genetic questions
  2. Perform a range of laboratory techniques used in molecular biology
  3. Write basic scientific reports
  4. Explain the principles and influencing factors of genetic heredity
  5. Discuss the concepts of gene expression and regulatio
  6. Relate mutations, genomics and personalized medicine
  7. Describe up-to-date genetic technologies

Teaching and Learning Approach

This course introduces concepts by using a combination of lectures, problem-solving vignettes, discussions, and case studies in which students will work in small groups to solve problems. Students are expected to utilize the textbook, lecture materials, and Moodle quizzes to study independently outside of scheduled class meetings.

In addition, the laboratory component of this course provides opportunities to develop practical biological skills and to learn content that is complimentary to, but different from, the content introduced in the classroom. Students will also develop skills in oral and written communication in the sciences.

Lecture slides, laboratory resources, videos, and other supplemental materials will be posted on Moodle (learn.selkirk.ca).

Learning Resources

Required textbooks:

Klug WS, Cummings MR, Spencer CA, Palladino MA, Killian D. 2019. Concepts of Genetics. 12th Ed. Hoboken (NJ): Pearson. (eTextbook available at pearson.com)

BIOL 202 Laboratory Manual (available for purchase in the Bookstore)

Required materials:

Lab coat (available for purchase in the Bookstore)

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. 1. Ch1 Introduction to Genetics Ch22 Applications and Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

2. 2. Ch2 Mitosis and Meiosis

3. 3. Ch3 Mendelian Genetics

4. 4. Ch4 Extensions of Mendelian Genetics

5. 5. Ch5 Chromosome Mapping in Eukaryotes

6. 6. Ch7 Sex Determination and Sex Chromosomes

7. 7. Study Week (No classes)

8. 8. Ch11 DNA Replication & Recombination

9. 9. Ch20 Recombinant DNA Technology

10. 10. Ch15 Gene Mutation, DNA Repair, and Transposition Case Study: CRISPR-Cas and Genome Editing

11. 11. Ch16 Regulation of Gene Expression in Prokaryotes

12. 12. Ch17 Regulation of Gene Expression in Eukaryotes Case Study: Muscular Dystrophy

13. 13. Ch18 Developmental Genetics

14. 14. Scientific Communication Project - Peer Assessment

15. 15. Final Exam Period

Assessment

TitleLearning OutcomesValue
Laboratory Assignments1-330%
Scientific Communication Project3, 5, 710%
Quiz1, 4-75%
Midterm Exam1, 4-725%
Final Exam1, 4-730%
Total100%

Grading Table

Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table

Percentage Letter Grade GPA
90-100 A+ 4.33
85-89 A 4.00
80-84 A- 3.67
76-79 B+ 3.33
72-75 B 3.00
68-71 B- 2.67
64-67 C+ 2.33
60-63 C 2.00
55-59 C- 1.67
50-54 P 1.00
0-49 F 0.00
  DNW 0.00

See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.

Disclaimer

Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.