Molecular Biology

This Molecular Biology course will teach students about the structure and function of biological molecules, such as DNA, RNA, and proteins, and how they interact within cells. Students will be introduced to the molecular processes, theories, techniques, classical and modern genetics, DNA technology, bioethics, the Human Genome Project, and biological research that guides cellular functionality. Students will learn how breakthroughs in molecular biology are revolutionizing fields like medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Students in this course will also take the full school year to read the best-selling book: “The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future.” As a class, we will discuss the book throughout the year and end the year with an opinion essay based on the book. This is an introductory course intended for students in 9-12 grade. Prerequisites include, at minimum, middle school life science and/or high school biology.

Course Structure

This course will be divided into 12 units. Each unit will be rich with activities, labs, virtual interactives, traditional reading/work, class/group discussions, independent research and collaboration, demos, book discussion and critical thinking. We will value everyone’s contribution to the course. It is imperative that students attend the weekly class meeting, participate and thoughtfully complete all assignments with best effort. Live weekly classes will include a variety of discussion, lecture notes, demos, group activities/labs, and review. Outside of class will require independent habits of completing all assigned work. Weekly quizzes and end of unit test will be assigned.

Units Covered:

• Introduction to Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
• The Cell and Macromolecules
• DNA Structure and Function
• Central Dogma of Molecular Biology
• Protein Structure and Function
• Mutations
• Chromosomes and Karyotypes
• Human Genome Project
• Learning from Bacteria
• Biotechnology Techniques
• Biotechnology Ethics and Products
• Careers in Molecular Biology

Who should enroll?

This is an introductory course intended for students in 10th – 12th grade with a desire to learn the specific discipline of Biology where the molecules of DNA and Protein along with genetics take center stage. Students interested in biotechnology, laboratory research, genetics, protein production and genetic modification will find this course very applicable to future courses of study and careers.

Prerequisites: high school biology (or minimally middle school life science with approval)

Technology Requirements

• High speed, broadband Internet
• Sound card and microphone (for live sessions)
• Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures
• Computer access with the ability to run online simulations
• Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint or Google Docs, Sheets and Slides. PDF reader
• Printer
• Scanner/Ability to scan with phone, computer, or tablet

Evaluation and Feedback

While I am always an email away…sometimes it may take me a little while to respond. It is my priority to respond quickly and within 24 hrs (weekends may take longer). I will provide an office hour outside of weekly live classes to be immediately available for your questions. I will let you know and remind you often of this hour before the beginning of the school year. If ever this office hour changes, I will give you plenty of notice. Grades will always be available in Canvas for students and parents. I recommend checking often to keep up to date on your progress. Averages will be given at the end of each semester.

Communication

Communication is very important to me. I believe it to be the key to success. Assignments and any upcoming work will be posted two weeks ahead of time. If posted lessons change for any reason, I will clearly communicate to students and parents. I will also clearly communicate with reminders for all large assignments that may be coming due. I expect students and parents to check email and course work daily. The best way to contact me is through email as well. I am always an email away and I will respond within 24 hours (weekends may take longer). I will provide an office hour outside of weekly live classes to be immediately available for your questions. I will let you know and remind you often of this hour before the beginning of the school year. If ever this office hour changes, I will give you plenty of notice.