Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - BISC 102 D100

General Biology (4)

Class Number: 2134

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Tue, Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.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+).

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to evolution and ecology, focusing on the processes that shape the diversity of life on earth. Lecture and lab topics include: natural selection and other mechanisms of evolutionary change, phylogeny, genetics, speciation, behaviour, species interactions, population ecology, and ecosystems. BISC 101 and 102 may be taken in either order. Breadth-Science.

Grading

  • Lecture iClicker questions 5%
  • Lecture midterm exam 20%
  • Lecture final exam 30%
  • Tutorial Participation 5%
  • Lab Assignments 15%
  • Lab exam 25%

NOTES:

To pass this course you must obtain an overall passing grade (i.e. at least 50%) on the Lab exam.

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.

REQUIRED READING:

i-CLICKER REQUIRED:

 iClicker is available as a hand-held remote and as a mobile app. Students may choose the option that works best for them. iClicker mobile has a 14-day free trial so payment is not required until the trial is over, which allows students to avoid paying iClicker fees until the drop course deadline has passed. Students must register for iClicker mobile with their SFU email.

Please see the data collection notice for iClickers at the bottom of this section.


Data collection notice for iClickers:

iClicker collects personal information on behalf of SFU under the authority of the University Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c.468), and Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (RSBC 1996, c. 165).

The information is related directly to and needed by the University to facilitate engagement and interaction between the instructor and students. The information will be used by iClicker to facilitate engagement and interaction between the instructor and students in a face-to-face or virtual instructional space, score student responses, and record student attendance.

If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information please contact the Centre for Educational Excellence, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, 778.782.7115.


RECOMMENDED READING:

TEXTBOOK: Biological Science, by Freeman, Harrington and Sharp. 4th Canadian Editions, Pearson. Highly recommended. [See Notes]

The text is available in e-book format--and is also used for BISC 101 and BISC 205, so if you expect to take those courses you might consider the "lifetime" rather than the "180 day" license, it's better value.

LAB MANUAL: You will receive a copy of your lab manual during your first lab. The printing cost is included in your course fees.

Note 1: The ‘Mastering’ version of the textbook is NOT required.
Note 2: Students can use the 3rd Canadian Edition text for reading if needed, which is similar in organization, but you will need to figure out the differences in page and figure numbers yourself.


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.