• 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.  Read all of the material at the link above. Make sure you complete the Section Summary on this page, and be sure to complete the Art Connections, Review Questions and Free Response sections. 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 check your understanding of the materials presented in this unit.

        Notes:

        • There is no minimum required score to pass this assessment, and your score on this assessment will not factor into your overall course grade.
        • This assessment is designed to prepare you for the Final Exam that will determine your course grade. Upon submission of your assessment you will be provided with the correct answers and/or other feedback meant to help in your understanding of the topics being assessed.
        • You may attempt this assessment as many times as needed, whenever you would like.