Biology

Biology is the branch of science that studies the language of God for life. Paul, writing to the Romans, says that God’s “invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made”. The structure of life itself testifies of God’s power, among other attributes. Studying biology is studying in detail how God executed his eternal decrees in Creation, so that we can glorify Him for all that was made.

This course will start from life's most simple unit, the cell, which displays an enormous amount of intricate relationships between organelles, and a very efficient information system in DNA. Next we will travel the great kingdoms of the living beings, from unicellular organisms, to fungi, to plants, animals and finally, an overview of each one of the human body’s systems. This course will give the students a general understanding of life as it is made by a thorough Creator, who made all things in perfect tune and upholds His Creation by the word of His power.

Course Objectives:

It is expected that at the end of this course the student will be able to:

1. Understand the organization of the cell, its main organelles, functions, and interactions.
2. Differentiate eukaryotic from prokaryotic cells.
3. List fungus characteristics and describe its role as a decomposer in the environment.
4. Identify the different groups of plants based on their anatomic parts and ecology.
5. Differentiate the main groups of invertebrates and list some of their respective representatives.
6. Differentiate the main groups of vertebrates and list some of their respective representatives.
7. Understand the functioning of the different systems of the human body and how they work together to sustain its homeostasis.

Texts:

• The Riot and the Dance: Foundational Biology