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Contemporary Biology
Ruthanne Thompson
Ruthanne Thompson
This course is an introduction to biology as it applies to our everyday life. Learners will explore the interplay between science and self through a personalized case study of themselves and their environment. By the end of the course, learners will be able to recognize the interactions among natural phenomena and the implications of the scientific principles behind the physical world and their experiences living in it.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/989ws7/contemporary
What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Cell Structures and Function
In this module, we will make some discoveries about soil, the original and true cells of organisms that live within it and, the ways in which water and minerals travel from the soil and throughout plants.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Cell Structures and Function
In this module, we will make some discoveries about soil, the original and true cells of organisms that live within it and, the ways in which water and minerals travel from the soil and throughout plants.
Read more
Energy Transfer & Flow
In this module, we will take what we have learned about cells and cell transport and make discoveries about the way plants and animals obtain the energy they need for life. Building upon the knowledge gained, we will also make discoveries about interactions between organisms.
Eukaryotic Cells & DNA
In this module, we will take what we have learned about cells and cell transport, energy flow and transfer, and organismal interactions and we will make discoveries concerning the ways toxins enter cells, and their effects on the cell's genetic material.
Cell Division & Heredity
In this module, we will take what we have learned about cells and we will make discoveries concerning our genetic code, the two processes of cell replication, and how we inherit specific traits.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Introduces core concepts and principles of biology, catering to learners with varying backgrounds and interests
Provides a personalized case study approach, allowing learners to relate biological concepts to their own lives
Taught by Ruthanne Thompson, a seasoned instructor in biology and science education
Covers a diverse range of topics, from cell structures to DNA and heredity, providing a comprehensive foundation in biology
Suitable for beginners or those seeking a refresher on the fundamentals of biology
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Save Contemporary Biology to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Contemporary Biology with these
activities:
Review Cell Biology
Show steps
Review key concepts in cell biology to ensure a strong foundation for understanding the interactions between science and self.
Browse courses on
Cell Biology
Show steps
-
Review notes and materials from previous coursework in cell biology.
-
Identify areas where knowledge is lacking and focus on reviewing those concepts.
-
Complete practice problems or answer review questions to test understanding.
Essential Cell Biology
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of cell biology concepts through a respected textbook.
View
Essential Cell Biology + Garland Science...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read assigned chapters and take notes on key concepts.
-
Complete end-of-chapter questions to test understanding.
-
Discuss the material with classmates or a study group.
Personal Health and Biology Journal
Show steps
Track and reflect on personal health habits to connect course concepts to daily life.
Browse courses on
Health
Show steps
-
Establish a regular schedule for recording health-related data, such as diet, exercise, and sleep.
-
Analyze patterns and trends in the data.
-
Research and apply biological principles to optimize health habits.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Energy Flow and Transfer Practice
Show steps
Engage in repetitive exercises to reinforce understanding of energy flow and transfer processes.
Show steps
-
Solve problems related to energy flow through ecosystems.
-
Analyze data on energy transfer efficiency in different organisms.
-
Create diagrams or models to illustrate energy flow pathways.
Cell Division Simulation
Show steps
Explore interactive simulations to visualize and understand the processes of cell division.
Browse courses on
Cell Division
Show steps
-
Identify online simulations or tutorials that demonstrate cell division processes.
-
Follow the instructions and interact with the simulations.
-
Analyze the results and draw conclusions about the different stages of cell division.
Eukaryotic Cell Model
Show steps
Create a tangible representation of a eukaryotic cell to enhance understanding of its complex structure and functions.
Browse courses on
Eukaryotic Cells
Show steps
-
Research different types of eukaryotic cells.
-
Choose a specific cell type to model.
-
Design and construct a model using materials such as clay, cardboard, or digital software.
-
Label and annotate the model with key organelles and structures.
Biology in Everyday Life Essay
Show steps
Synthesize course concepts and connect them to real-world experiences through written expression.
Show steps
-
Identify a specific aspect of biology that resonates with personal experiences.
-
Research and gather information on the topic.
-
Write a well-structured essay that explores the connections between biology and everyday life.
Review Cell Biology
Show steps
Review key concepts in cell biology to ensure a strong foundation for understanding the interactions between science and self.
Browse courses on
Cell Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review notes and materials from previous coursework in cell biology.
- Identify areas where knowledge is lacking and focus on reviewing those concepts.
- Complete practice problems or answer review questions to test understanding.
Essential Cell Biology
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of cell biology concepts through a respected textbook.
View
Essential Cell Biology + Garland Science...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read assigned chapters and take notes on key concepts.
- Complete end-of-chapter questions to test understanding.
- Discuss the material with classmates or a study group.
Personal Health and Biology Journal
Show steps
Track and reflect on personal health habits to connect course concepts to daily life.
Browse courses on
Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Establish a regular schedule for recording health-related data, such as diet, exercise, and sleep.
- Analyze patterns and trends in the data.
- Research and apply biological principles to optimize health habits.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Energy Flow and Transfer Practice
Show steps
Engage in repetitive exercises to reinforce understanding of energy flow and transfer processes.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Solve problems related to energy flow through ecosystems.
- Analyze data on energy transfer efficiency in different organisms.
- Create diagrams or models to illustrate energy flow pathways.
Cell Division Simulation
Show steps
Explore interactive simulations to visualize and understand the processes of cell division.
Browse courses on
Cell Division
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify online simulations or tutorials that demonstrate cell division processes.
- Follow the instructions and interact with the simulations.
- Analyze the results and draw conclusions about the different stages of cell division.
Eukaryotic Cell Model
Show steps
Create a tangible representation of a eukaryotic cell to enhance understanding of its complex structure and functions.
Browse courses on
Eukaryotic Cells
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different types of eukaryotic cells.
- Choose a specific cell type to model.
- Design and construct a model using materials such as clay, cardboard, or digital software.
- Label and annotate the model with key organelles and structures.
Biology in Everyday Life Essay
Show steps
Synthesize course concepts and connect them to real-world experiences through written expression.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific aspect of biology that resonates with personal experiences.
- Research and gather information on the topic.
- Write a well-structured essay that explores the connections between biology and everyday life.
Career center
Learners who complete Contemporary Biology will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Postsecondary Teacher
Postsecondary Teacher
A Postsecondary Teacher provides instruction to college or graduate school students in a wide variety of academic subjects. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Postsecondary Teacher needs to effectively teach their students.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
A Biomedical Engineer applies engineering principles to the study of biology and medicine. This includes the design and development of medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and other medical technologies. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Biomedical Engineer needs to effectively conduct their work.
Biostatistician
Biostatistician
A Biostatistician applies statistical methods to data in the biological sciences. This includes the design of experiments, the analysis of data, and the interpretation of results. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Biostatistician needs to effectively conduct their work.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
An Environmental Scientist studies the environment and its components, and the effects of human activity on the environment. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Environmental Scientist needs to effectively conduct their work.
Medical Scientist
Medical Scientist
A Medical Scientist conducts research to further the understanding of life processes and living organisms. This includes the study of anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and genetics. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Medical Scientist needs to effectively conduct their research.
Science Writer
Science Writer
A Science Writer communicates complex scientific information to a general audience. This includes writing articles, books, and other materials for print, online, and other media. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Science Writer needs to effectively communicate complex information to the public.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
A Wildlife Biologist studies the biology and behavior of wildlife. This includes conducting research on wildlife populations, habitats, and interactions with humans. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Wildlife Biologist needs to effectively study the biology and behavior of wildlife.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
An Environmental Engineer designs and implements solutions to environmental problems. This includes developing and implementing technologies to reduce pollution, clean up contaminated sites, and protect water resources. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Environmental Engineer needs to effectively design and implement solutions to environmental problems.
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technician
A Laboratory Technician conducts experiments and analyzes data in a laboratory setting. This includes working with chemicals, equipment, and other materials. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Laboratory Technician needs to effectively conduct experiments and analyze data.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
An Environmental Consultant provides advice and guidance to businesses and organizations on environmental issues. This includes assessing environmental risks, developing environmental management plans, and implementing environmental regulations. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Environmental Consultant needs to effectively provide advice and guidance on environmental issues.
Park Ranger
Park Ranger
A Park Ranger protects and manages natural resources in parks and other protected areas. This includes enforcing park regulations, conducting educational programs, and maintaining park facilities. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Park Ranger needs to effectively protect and manage natural resources.
Health Educator
Health Educator
A Health Educator promotes health and wellness by providing information and education to individuals and communities. This includes teaching about nutrition, exercise, and other healthy habits. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Health Educator needs to effectively teach about health and wellness.
Environmental Planner
Environmental Planner
An Environmental Planner develops and implements plans to protect the environment and natural resources. This includes working with government agencies, businesses, and other organizations to develop and implement environmental regulations and policies. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Environmental Planner needs to effectively develop and implement plans to protect the environment and natural resources.
Science Policy Analyst
Science Policy Analyst
A Science Policy Analyst analyzes scientific data and information to inform policy decisions. This includes writing reports, briefs, and other materials for policymakers and other stakeholders. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Science Policy Analyst needs to effectively analyze scientific information and inform policy decisions.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
A Conservation Scientist studies and works to protect the environment and natural resources. This includes developing and implementing conservation plans, conducting research, and educating the public about environmental issues. Courses like Contemporary Biology can help build a foundation for the in-depth knowledge that a Conservation Scientist needs to effectively study and protect the environment and natural resources.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/989ws7/contemporary
Reading list
We've selected 13 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Contemporary Biology .
This textbook comprehensive reference on the molecular biology of the cell. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the molecular mechanisms that underlie cellular processes.
This textbook focuses on the essential concepts of cell biology. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the structure and function of cells.
This classic textbook covers a wide range of biological topics, from cell structure to ecology. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the fundamentals of biology. While it is more comprehensive than the course material, it can be used as a reference for additional information.
This textbook covers the biology of plants. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the structure, function, and evolution of plants.
Save
This textbook covers the principles of microbiology. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the microorganisms that live in and around us.
This textbook covers the biology of humans. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the structure, function, and evolution of the human body.
Save
This textbook covers the biology of animals. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the diversity, anatomy, and physiology of animals.
Save
This textbook more global approach to biology, covering topics such as the environment, evolution, and human health. It good choice for students who are interested in learning about the broader implications of biology.
Save
This textbook covers the principles of evolution. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the evolution of life on Earth.
Popular science book that explores the concept of the selfish gene. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the evolution of life on Earth.
Classic work of environmental literature that helped to raise awareness of the dangers of pesticides. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the environmental challenges facing our planet.
Pulitzer Prize-winning work of nonfiction that explores the history of mass extinctions on Earth. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the environmental challenges facing our planet.
Popular science book that explores the history of humankind. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the evolution of human society.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/989ws7/contemporary
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University of North Texas
Instructor
Ruthanne Thompson
Language
English
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Good to know
Introduces core concepts and principles of biology, catering to learners with varying backgrounds and interests
Provides a personalized case study approach, allowing learners to relate biological concepts to their own lives
Taught by Ruthanne Thompson, a seasoned instructor in biology and science education
Covers a diverse range of topics, from cell structures to DNA and heredity, providing a comprehensive foundation in biology
Suitable for beginners or those seeking a refresher on the fundamentals of biology
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