Common Course Outline

Catalog Description

Course Description

This course covers the fundamentals of plant biology, focusing on the various types of plants and the basic anatomy and physiology of plants. The course is also designed to promote an awareness of the significance of plants in the natural processes of our biosphere and specifically for humans. Students will be challenged to think about the importance of plants in decision making, from individual, ethical choices to social, economic, and policy making-type choices.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

May, 2025

Outline of Major Content Areas

1. Plant Classification
2. Binomial Nomenclature System
3. Major Classifications
4. Domains
5. Kingdoms
6. Plantae
7. Plant Anatomy
8. Gross Anatomy
9. Microscopic Anatomy
10. Plant Physiology
11. Membrane Transport
12. Enzymes and Energy
13. Metabolism
14. Photosynthesis
15. Cellular Respiration
16. Plant Growth
17. Cell Division and Reproduction
18. Genetics and Inheritance of Traits
19. Responses to Environmental Conditions
20. Plant Breeding and Biotechnology
21. Evolution and Ecology
22. Evolution and Natural Selection
23. Ecological Interactions
24. Biogeochemical Cycles and Succession
25. Influence of Humans on Plants

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

1. Describe the phylogenic relationships of plants, including flowering plants.
2. Identify and describe basic plant structures and organ systems.
3. Explain and summarize the movement and use of water in plants.
4. Explain the cellular biology of plants and of plant growth, including cell division and reproductive strategies.
5. Recognize, compare, contrast, and apply knowledge of plant physiology, genetics, and biotechnology as applied to plant development and improvement.
6. Recognize, assess, and/or evaluate the importance of plants and the impact of humans on them, e.g., political, social, economic, ethical issues.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

Goal 3/Natural Sciences

The student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of scientific theories.
2. Communicate their experimental findings, analyses, and interpretations both orally and in writing.
3. Evaluate societal issues from a natural science perspective, ask questions about the evidence presented, and make informed judgments about science-related topics and policies.

Goal 10/People and the Environment

The student will be able to:

1. Explain the basic structure and function of various natural ecosystems and of human adaptive strategies within those systems.
2. Evaluate critically environmental and natural resource issues in light of understandings about interrelationships, ecosystems, and institutions.
3. Propose and assess alternative solutions to environmental problems.
4. Articulate and defend the actions they would take on various environmental issues.

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

• Lecture exams
• Lecture and/or laboratory quizzes
• Lecture and/or lab assignments
• Laboratory practical exams
• Plant design project
• Student presentations

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Critical Thinking

Students will think systematically and explore information thoroughly before accepting or formulating a position or conclusion.

Special Information (if any)

The initial lab session explains and familiarizes the student with general safety hazards and safety equipment in the lab. During the pre-lab discussion, the hazardous characteristics of any materials used during the lab are discussed. In addition, if the lab involves any potentially infectious material, the students will be instructed on the proper use and disposal. The instructor will direct all students to wear necessary protective equipment while working with any hazardous chemicals. Safety Data Sheets for chemicals used are available online. Field lab work may also be part of this course, so students may be outside for some lab activities.