This introductory course to biology and life science will begin with a general survey of the six kingdoms of life and their cell structures. Students will learn the general differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells and identify the structures unique to the larger animal, plant and fungus cells.  Both cell respiration and photosynthesis will be covered as well as the cellular processes of osmosis and diffusion.  The differences between mitosis and meiosis will be discussed as will the genetics of DNA.  The class will examine the features of organisms within the animal, plant, and protist kingdoms including their presence in the marine environment. The characteristics of human body systems will be covered as students learn about their own biological systems. The class will also cover the fungal kingdom and the unique properties of yeast, molds, and mushrooms.  Moving on, we focus on the organisms in the true microscopic world: the bacteria and the archaebacteria. The two prokaryotes will be compared and new discoveries will be presented as will the ability of certain bacteria to form endospores. In addition, students will learn about the unique properties of viruses including their life cycles and why they are so difficult to combat medically. The history of vaccinations will be presented and the viral diseases of smallpox, polio, and rabies will be covered. Special attention will be given to the flu, cold, and corona viruses. Along the way, student will be exposed to the scientific method, lab techniques, and inquiry-based science. The live classes will include interesting demonstrations.

PLEASE NOTE: Students are expected to be on-screen during discussions and question periods. 

General Topic Sequence
Week 1  Introduction to Biology, Cell Theory, The Six Kingdoms
Week 2  Eukaryotes vs Prokaryotes, Membranes and Cell Walls
Week 3  Cell Structures, Osmosis and Diffusion, Photosynthesis
Week 4  Respiration and Photosynthesis, Plants
Week 5  Mitosis and Meiosis, Genetics 
Week 6  The Animal Kingdom, Ecology
Week 7  The Biology of the Environment
Week 8  Protist Organisms, Animals and the Marine Environment
Week 9  Human Skeletal and Digestive Systems
Week 10  Human Body Systems
Week 11  Yeast, Molds, and Mushrooms
Week 11  Bacteria and the Archaea
Week 12  Bacteria, Foods, Spores, and Disease 
Week 13  Viruses and Vaccinations
Week 14  Cold Viruses and the Influenza virus

*Please note there will be no classes the week of March 6-10th.

Assignments: Optional assignments will be offered.