Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - BISC 101 D100

General Biology (4)

Class Number: 2549

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Thu, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Biology 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or BISC 100 with a minimum grade of C-, or BISC 113 with a minimum grade of C+, or BPK 105 with a minimum grade of C+, or HSCI 100 with a minimum grade of C+); and Chemistry 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or CHEM 111 with a minimum grade of C-; or CHEM 110 and 115, both with a minimum grade of C-).

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to the molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms of living organisms (microorganisms, plants, animals). Lecture and lab topics include cell structure and function, flow of genetic information, enzyme function, metabolism, whole organism form and function (circulation, gas exchange, nutrition, osmoregulation). BISC 101 and 102 can be taken in either order. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

Cell biology (weeks 1-5) 
Molecules of life
Cell structure and function
Cell cycle, cell replication
DNA replication, genes to proteins, DNA technology
Metabolism and enzymes, cellular respiration  

Animal biology (weeks 6-9)    
Animal form and function; homeostasis and thermoregulation
Osmoregulation and excretion
Nutrition and digestion
Gas exchange and circulation

Immune function

Reproduction

Plant biology (weeks 10-13)   
Plant cells and photosynthesis
Plant form and function; growth and development
Plant nutrition and transport processes
Plant hormones and interactions with environment  

The information on this outline is subject to change.

Grading

  • Lecture Midterm I 15%
  • Lecture Midterm II 15%
  • Lecture Final Exam 30%
  • Lab 40%

NOTES:

All students must pass both of the laboratory component and the lecture test component to receive a passing grade in the course.

Regular attendance is mandatory. Labs and tutorials begin in the second week of the semester and continue including the last week of the semester.


Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Please note:  This course has a mandatory supplementary fee which is non-refundable after week 1 (refer to the SFU Dates & Deadlines for the last day to drop with 100% refund).  See the SFU calendar for the current supplementary fee rate.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Freeman, Quillin, Allison, Black, Podgorski, Taylor, Carmichael, Harrington & Sharp. Biological Science (4th Canadian Edition, 2024) or (3rd Canadian Edition, 2019). Pearson, Toronto.

The lab manual will be provided to you in the first week of lab.


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.