BIOL 204 Cell Biology provides the student with a thorough knowledge of cell structure and function. Topics covered include biomolecules, membranes, organelles, cell movement, cell signaling, gene regulation, and transcription and translation. Experimental techniques used in modern cellular and molecular biology 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.Course Details| Total number of weeks | 15 |
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| Total Credits | |
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| Total Hours | 90 |
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Typical hours per week breakdown| Lecture | 3 |
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| Lab (lab, field, computer) | 3 |
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
- Describe the structure and function of cellular macromolecules and organelles and integrate them with their physiological functions using appropriate biochemical principles
- Explain the principles of DNA biology and gene expression
- Discuss intra and inter cellular communications and how they regulate the cell cycle
- Apply problem-solving, and scientific reasoning skills to scientific questions
- Perform a broad spectrum of laboratory techniques used in molecular biology
- Write basic scientific reports
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 and course materials 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:
Hardin J, Lodolce JP. 2022. Becker’s World of the Cell. 10th Ed. Hoboken (NJ): Pearson. (eTextbook
available at pearson.com)
BIOL 204 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. Introduction to Cell Biology
2. 2. Cells, Organelles, and Transport Across Membranes
3. 3. The Endomembrane System
4. 4. The Cytoskeletal System
5. 5. Cellular Movement
6. 6. Beyond the Cell: Cell Adhesions, Cell Junctions, and Extracellular Structures
7. 7. The Structural Basis of Cellular Information: DNA, Chromosomes, and the Nucleus
8. 8. DNA Replication, Repair, and Recombination
9. 9. Gene Expression: The Genetic Code and Transcription
10. 10. Gene Expression: Protein Synthesis and Sorting
11. 11. Signal Transduction I
12. 12. Signal Transduction II
13. 13. The Cell Cycle and Mitosis
14. 14. Cancer Cells
15. 15. Final Exam Period
Assessment
| Title | Learning Outcomes | Value |
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| Quiz | | 5% |
| Midterm Exam | | 25% |
| Final Exam | | 30% |
| Laboratory Project | | 10% |
| Laboratory Assignments | | 30% |
| Total | 100% |
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.