BI 153 Fundamentals of Plant Biology

Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 3
Credits: 4

Introduction to the study of plant structure and function. Begins with a survey of plant evolution and diversity, then focuses on Angiosperms as a model system to explore plant structure, physiology and reproduction. Discusses the role of co-evolution in ensuring the success of plants on Earth. Serves as background for students in the Horticulture programs.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 115 (or higher), or completion of WR 090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Differential Fee Yes
Student Learning Outcomes:

Discuss a variety of reasons that plants are essential to life on Earth
Describe current hypotheses regarding the evolution of modern plants
Recognize and identify plant and cell structures at the macroscopic and microscopic level
Describe the roles of enzymes and water in the basic function of plants at the cellular and organismal level.
Explain how the symbiotic relationships between plants and other organisms such as pollinators and fungi are essential to plant success
Demonstrate a basic understanding of how plants capture, store and use energy.
Diagram the processes of plant reproduction with a focus on flowering plants.
Apply the principles of Mendelian genetics to explain how characteristics are controlled by genes.
Predict the effects of hormones and environment on the growth and timing of vascular plant responses to environment.

Statewide General Education Outcomes:

Gather, comprehend, and communicate scientific and technical information in order to explore ideas, models, and solutions and generate further questions.
Apply scientific and technical modes of inquiry, individually, and collaboratively, to critically evaluate existing or alternative explanations, solve problems, and make evidence-based decisions in an ethical manner.
Assess the strengths and weaknesses of scientific studies and critically examine the influence of scientific and technical knowledge on human society and the environment.

Content Outline

Introduction to Plant Biology
- Why are plants important to life on Earth?
- Properties of life
- Using the scientific method
Evolution of Plant Diversity
- Natural selection
- Evolution of photosynthesis and Earth’s O₂-based atmosphere
- Characteristics of plants
- Plant diversity (Bryophytes, Seedless vascular plants, Gymnosperms and Angiosperms)
Cell structure and Function
- Prokaryotes versus Eukaryotes
- Plant cell structure
- Mitosis
Plant Structure and Function
- Plant tissue systems
- Stems
- Roots
- Leaves
Plant Metabolism
- Key chemistry concepts (atomic structure, chemical reactions, macromolecules, propertiesof water)
- Enzymes and cell energetics
- Overview of Photosynthesis
- Overview of Respiration
Plant Reproduction
- Meiosis
- Alternation of Generations
- Angiosperm life cycle (including flowers, fruits, and seeds)
- Coevolution
Plant Genetics
- Mendel’s laws
- Solving basic genetics problems
Plant Nutrition and Transport
- Plant Macro- and micronutrients
- Basic soil structure including cation exchange
- Interactions between plants, bacteria and fungi
- Diffusion, osmosis, active transport and bulk flow
- Structure and function of plant vascular tissues
Response to the Environment
- Plant Growth (germination, primary and secondary)
- Hormones and plant growth responses
- Plant Defenses
Laboratories
- Introduction to Scientific Method
- Microscopes and Plant Diversity
- Plant Cells, Tissues, and Organs
- Enzymes
- Photosynthesis and Cellular respiration
- Plant Transport
- Basic Plant Genetics
- Flowers, Seeds, and Fruit
- Plant Growth and Development
- Term-long group inquiry project