• Unit 1: Introduction to Biology

    Biology is the study of life. This unit will introduce to you major topics that a biologist studies and the major theories he or she uses and applies in his or her work. Hopefully, this is where you will begin to develop an appreciation for the scope of topics that biology addresses.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 4 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • list the basic characteristics of life that are common to all living things;
      • list the levels of organization of life and characteristics of each level; and
      • describe the steps of the scientific method and the importance of using the scientific method in research.

    • 1.1: Introduction to Biology

      • Concepts of Biology: "The Process of Science" URL

        Are you ready to dive into the study of science? First, you'll need to understand the scientific method used in scientific inquiry. Now is a great time to start a biology notebook to write down the terms and concepts you learn throughout the course. 

      • Modern Biology: "Introduction to Modern Biology" URL

        Click "Enter Course" on this page, and read "Introduction to Modern Biology". You may wish to create a username and password this website, so you will not have to login as a guest each time.

    • 1.2: Biology Systems and Water

      • Douglas Wilkin and Niamh Gray-Wilson's "Characteristics of Life – Advanced" File

        In this chapter you will explore the characteristics of living organisms, and identify characteristics common among all living organisms.  At the end of the chapter, take a few moments to consider the "Explore More" section and the review questions. Write your answers and any additional questions that may arise in your notes.

      • University of California, Berkeley: Jennifer Doudna's "Biology 1A-Lecture 1" Page

        Watch this lecture. At the 30-minute mark, the lecturer misspeaks and says that "thymus enlarges". The thymus is a small organ in the upper chest involved in the immune system. The lecturer meant to say "thyroid" when referring to a goiter in the neck. The last portion of the lecture (properties of water) will be covered later on in unit 3.

    • Unit 1 Assessment

      • Unit 1 Assessment Quiz

        Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.

        • This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
        • You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
        • You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.