Modern Biology & Its Real World Applications

The field of biology has expanded rapidly over the past fifty years. New discoveries are happening almost every day. In this course we explore the basic elements of molecular biology, genetics, and evolution and how these sciences affect modern medicine, agriculture, and ecology.

The course begins with a full description of the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins. Students then apply this information to a wide range of topics such as modern biological research techniques, data interpretation, genetic engineering, immunology, cancer, and virology. The course also includes mini-units on bioethics and the biology of global warming, and we connect modern biology to fields such as anthropology, history, and economics. A variety of group activities, online labs, and videos supplement the student experience.

Please note, this course does not include a wet lab component. 

Approximately a third of the material covered in this course will already be familiar to students who have taken AP Biology.