Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2022 - MBB 431 D100

Cells and the Environment (3)

Class Number: 1346

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 10 – Aug 8, 2022: Thu, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MBB 322 and 331, with a minimum grade of C.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The cellular processes at the interface of cells and the environment will be explored in-depth. Through the use of lectures and group discussions and an emphasis on the primary literature, the focus will be on recent developments in molecular cell biology through the study of symbiosis and adaptation.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course relies on reading reviews, opinions, and primary literature. Learning will involve interactive lectures, class discussions, and team-based assignments.  A goal of the course is to strengthen student ability to read scientific papers critically and with perspective. We will study environmental changes from climate change to the disease-mediated changes in the environment of human gut microbiota.

Grading

  • Quizzes 10%
  • Written responses 15%
  • Midterms (two@15% each) 30%
  • Essay (1,000 words). First draft (5%) + Peer reviews (5%) + Final paper (15%) 25%
  • Team presentation 1 10%
  • Team presentation 2 10%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

We will read review articles and primary research papers.  A basic cell biology textbook may be useful as a refresher on certain topics. We will also make use of open-source data and other on-line resources.  

Department Undergraduate Notes:


  • For help with writing, learning and study strategies please contact the Student Learning Commons at
    http://learningcommons.sfu.ca/
  • Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability, must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (778-782-3112 or e-mail:  caladmin@sfu.ca)

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2022

Teaching at SFU in summer 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction.  Some courses may be offered through alternative methods (remote, online, blended), and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes. 

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote, online, or blended courses study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the summer 2022 term.