BIO1203: Cell Biology

Course Description

This course introduces the structure and function of cells with emphasis on their molecular components, metabolism, growth, and division. It also examines embryonic development, cellular differentiation, and the regulation of cell processes. Special attention is given to similarities and differences between plant and animal cells, providing future teachers with a solid foundation for teaching fundamental biological concepts.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify and describe the structure and functions of cellular components.
2. Explain the processes of cell growth, replication (mitosis and meiosis), and gametogenesis.
3. Describe embryonic cell differentiation and its role in development.
4. Compare and contrast the structural and functional features of plant and animal cells.

Required Materials

1. Basic Laboratory Equipment

Compound light microscope

Prepared slides (onion root tip, cheek cells, stages of mitosis, etc.)

Glassware: beakers, test tubes, pipettes, centrifuge tubes

Centrifuge (for practical demonstration of cell fractionation

Bunsen burner or spirit lamp

Filter paper, funnels, and Petri dishes

2. Teaching & Learning Materials

Charts and posters of cell structures and organelles

Models of plant and animal cells

Digital simulations (Interactive Simulations, Cell Explorer)

Laboratory manuals/notebooks

Multimedia projector or smart board for visual presentations

Books and References

1. Karp, G. (2018). Cell and Molecular Biology
2. Alberts, B., Johnson, A., Lewis, J., Morgan, D., Raff, M., Roberts, K., & Walter, P. (2015). Molecular Biology of the Cell (6th Edition). Garland Science.