Introduction to Biology

Week 1: Foundations of Biology

 Lecture 1: Introduction to Biology

o Definition of biology and its branches.
o The scientific method and its application in biological research.
o Overview of the characteristics of living organisms.
 Lecture 2: Chemistry of Life
o The structure of atoms and molecules.
o Properties of water and its significance for life.
o Introduction to organic molecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic
acids.
 Lecture 3: Cell Structure and Function
o The cell theory.
o Prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells.
o Cell organelles and their functions.

Week 2: Genetics and Heredity

 Lecture 4: Mendelian Genetics

o Gregor Mendel's laws of inheritance.
o Punnett squares and genetic crosses.
o Extensions to Mendelian genetics: codominance, incomplete dominance.
 Lecture 5: DNA and RNA
o Structure of DNA and its role in heredity.
o DNA replication and protein synthesis.
o RNA types and their functions.
 Lecture 6: Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
o Recombinant DNA technology.
o Applications of genetic engineering in medicine and agriculture.
o Ethical considerations in genetic research.

Week 3: Evolution and Biodiversity

 Lecture 7: Principles of Evolution

o Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection.
o Evidence for evolution: fossils, comparative anatomy, molecular biology.
o Mechanisms of evolution: genetic drift, gene flow, and natural selection.
 Lecture 8: Biodiversity and Classification
o The concept of species.
o Classification systems and taxonomy.
o Importance of biodiversity and its conservation.
 Lecture 9: Ecology and Ecosystems
o Ecosystem components: biotic and abiotic factors.
o Energy flow and nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
o Ecological relationships: symbiosis, predation, and competition.
Week 4: Physiology and Homeostasis

 Lecture 10: Human Anatomy and Physiology

o Structure and function of major organ systems.
o Homeostasis and feedback mechanisms.
o Disorders and diseases related to organ systems.
 Lecture 11: Plant Biology
o Plant structure and function.
o Photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
o Plant adaptations and responses to the environment.
 Lecture 12: Reproduction and Development
o Reproductive strategies in plants and animals.
o Human reproductive system and embryonic development.
o Aging and the life cycle.