A Foundation Course in Biology and Earth Science

Course Coordinator: To be confirmed

Course Developer: Dr Gordon S Maxwell, OUHK

SCI S122 has been developed for students who are interested in modern biology and earth sciences. This course is suitable for new entrants to the OUHK and is a recommended starting point if you plan to follow the Environmental Studies degree programme. Background knowledge in science (such as biology, chemistry or physics) is not necessary.

Aims
This course aims to:

• Bring students without an existing knowledge of biology and earth science into contact with key concepts and principles in current biology and earth science;
• Enable students who desire a refresher course in biology and earth science to update their knowledge;
• Provide students with a solid foundation in biology and earth science, thus enabling them to pursue further studies in related subjects;
• Help students appreciate, value, assess, understand and enjoy the role and position of the biological and earth sciences in Hong Kong, China and the world.

Contents
The course covers the following topics:

• The course takes a modern view in the chemical basis of life, DNA, how plants and animals work, the process of evolution, genetics and ecology. It also includes the environmental science that may hold the key to the survival of life in the 21st century.
• The course takes a fresh and dynamic look at earth science in action in Hong Kong. A new locally produced, multi-authored textbook will give students a real understanding of the processes of earth science especially relevant to Hong Kong. The concepts covered, although placed in the contest of Hong Kong flavour, are relevant all over the world.

Learning support
There will be a series of tutorials, surgeries, optional evening laboratory sessions and workshops. Two compulsory practical lab and field workshops (called day schools) are required for this course. One of the day schools covers biology, while the other covers earth science. The day schools may be held in evenings of weekdays or in weekends. Your tutor and Course Coordinator will guide you in lab and field work.

Assessment
There will be eight assignments: four assignments (multiple choice) and four assignments. There will also be a final examination. To gain an overall pass in the course, attendance at the day schools is essential. Students are required to submit assignments via the Online Learning Environment (OLE).

Equipment
Students will need access to a personal computer or other electronic devices with an Internet connection.

Set book(s)
McFadden, C and Keeton, W (1995) Biology: An Exploration of Life, New York: WW Norton & Co.

Students with disabilities or special educational needs
Students with disabilities or special educational needs may have difficulties for the laboratory sessions or field visits. You are encouraged to seek advice from the Course Coordinator before enrolling in the course.