Department of Natural Science

Salve Lindio-Dorado, Chairperson
Phone: (632) 524-7686 local 230

Philosophy

The Department of Natural Sciences contextualizes its disciplines from the human perspective.  Science is a very important tool that equips students with a firm grasp and understanding of themselves and the world with which they interact --- the biophysico-chemical environment and the whole society.  The elements contained in this environment can dynamically interact with one another to produce changes.  Being endowed by the Supreme Being with intellect and free will, humans can willingly fashion these changes through the knowledge acquired in the study of science.  Thus, through its liberal arts core of basic science subjects and major subjects, the Department of Natural Sciences seeks to enable students to develop an appreciation of the role science plays in society as well as its relevance to everyday living.

Thrusts

 n Scientific Literacy
 n Environmental Concerns
 n Research
 n Pedagogical Skill/Competency in Teaching Science

Objectives

During the study of each course, students (majors or non-majors) should be able to:

1.      demonstrate a functional understanding of the different concepts, principles and theories of science.

2.      understand how the various laboratory activities and experiments as well as other authentic tasks in science can provide opportunities to develop manipulative and targeted science process skills. 

3.      understand how the study of the different topics in science can provide opportunities in developing problem solving skills, logical and critical thinking, creative thinking and decision making skills.

4.     show how their knowledge of the different science concepts can be used to explore, investigate and pursue interesting problems uncovered during class discussion.

5.     understand how the study of the different topics have an inherent value and associated      attitudes as well as Benedictine values

6.     demonstrate the ability to use appropriate technology to support learning activities.

7.      demonstrate the ability to express one’s ideas, viewpoints, etc. clearly and in an  organized, logical manner in both written and oral discourses.

8.    demonstrate the ability to exercise reflective judgment.

General Objectives

At the end of the semester, the Scholastican shall have achieved the following:

1.   capacity to identify, recognize and define the woman question.

2.   ability to examine ways in which gender is socially constructed.

3.   awareness and sensitivity to issues of women, children and the environment.

4.   ability to analyze and root issues of women in patriarchy.

5.   responsiveness to issues of women in creative and effective ways.

6.   course competencies expected.

7.   appreciation of Benedictine values that empower women - Ora et Labora, Pax Benedictina, centering prayer and moments of silence.

8.   awareness and appreciation of the 100 years of Scholastican education stressing on  excellence as the Benedictine service to the community and society.

Competencies for General Education (GE) Courses

 n Scientific Process Skills
 n Research Skills
 n Communication Skills
 n Thinking Skills
 n In-depth Knowledge of Science
         Concepts and Principles
 n Scientific/Benedictine Attitudes and
         Values
 n Advocacy on the Preservation and
         Protection of the Environment
 n Teamwork        

Programs

Bachelor of Science in Biology

The BS Biology program is a comprehensive four-year course that prepares students to various careers in medicine, research, teaching and industry. 

Program Objectives

The BS Biology program sufficiently satisfies the admission requirements for medical education and is also structured to meet the needs for professional biologists who can :

1.      undertake instruction at the *primary, *secondary and tertiary levels,

2.      conduct independent research in the various fields of biology, and

3.      be gainfully employed in any sector or self-enterprise where biological expertise is       needed

*  With additional courses in education (18 units) and passing the Licensure Exam for Teachers, a BS Biology graduate can also be employed as an elementary, high school and college science teacher. The education dept is offering  a certificate course in teaching. The course requires 18 units of education subjects– 15 units can be taken one summer and the remaining 3 units for practice teaching can be taken during the regular school year or while working as a teacher. 

Program Competency Standards

 n Have an in-depth understanding of the basic principles governing biological science

 n     Be able to extend knowledge and understanding to a critical assessment of current views
   and theories in selected areas of the biological sciences

 n     Be able to perform basic biological and chemical techniques in either a laboratory or   
   fieldwork research setting

 n Be able to carry out basic mathematical and statistical computations

 n Have adequate technical writing skills and effective oral communication abilities

 n Develop critical, analytical and problem solving skills

 n Develop the skills required for both autonomous practice and teamwork

 n  Appreciate the limitations and implications of science in everyday life

  n Develop an objective viewpoint for discerning information and analyzing biases of other 
   people

 n  Be precise in making observations and able to distinguish small differences between 
   samples and events

 n Have a strong sense of ethical behavior

Source:  Policies and Standards for BS Biology
      CMO No. 24  Series 2005

Subject Offerings

Course Descriptions  

Service Courses for the school of Commerce Human Biology (3 units)

Human Biology is an introductory course that emphasizes the application of biological principles to practical human concerns.  The course focuses on human physiology and the role that humans play in the biosphere. The primary goal of the course is to provide students with a firm grasp of how their bodies function and how the human population can become more fully integrated into the biosphere.  Humans are often called upon to make decisions about their bodies and the environment; the knowledge gained in the course can help them make wise decisions that help ensure our continued survival as individuals and as a species. 

Ecology (3 units)

The course deals with the study of concepts, principles and laws of ecology, interactions between organisms and the environment, diversity and complexity of the various components that constitute the terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems.  Environmental problems and issues are discussed in an interdisciplinary approach taking into consideration the social, political, economic, moral and spiritual aspects.

Service courses for the School of Arts and Sciences:

For Bachelor of Science

Biological Science with Ecological Perspective (5 units)

Biological Science with Ecological Perspective provides an overview of the  science of Biology.  It deals with the structural and functional relationship of the different organisms.  It also studies the integration of the functions of the different organ systems giving rise to a complex and highly specialized organism.  Relevant ecological concepts and principles are integrated in each topic.

General/Inorganic Chemistry (5 units)

General/Inorganic Chemistry is a fundamental course in chemistry that deals with the basic concepts in atomic structure, periodic table, radioactivity, chemical bonding, solutions, acids and bases. Special emphasis is given on consumer chemistry where students apply sound judgment in their choice of goods based on chemical theories and principles. The course also provides venues for non-science majors in the field of Mass Communication and Psychology to think critically, analyze information, communicate scientific ideas, and make logical arguments. Students also work as a team through experimentation, group discussion and study, and in the development of new methods and techniques. These activities foster science process skills and academic attitudes. 

For Bachelor of Arts

Fundamentals of Physical Sciences (4 units)

Fundamentals of Physical Sciences is a course designed and structured to illustrate the interplay and interconnectedness of Chemistry, Physics and Earth Science. The course begins with a discussion on the nature, goals, purposes and structure of Science to provide students with a philosophical overview of why the study of science is essential in the context of a Liberally Educated Person (LEP).

Throughout the course, fundamental principles, concepts and theories of Chemistry and Physics are interspersed with Earth Science issues.  This is a deliberate choice to showcase that the Earth is an evolving and dynamic system; that man’s activities ultimately affect the Earth.

At the end of the course, it is expected that students understand the nature and structure of Science for its study to be deemed essential.  Students are also expected to demonstrate the necessary knowledge and skills in understanding the interplay of Chemistry and Physics as it affects the Earth.

Fundamentals of Biological Sciences (4 units)

Fundamentals of Biological Sciences is an in-depth study of the structures and functions of organisms.  It seeks to explain the various biological phenomena as they influence the survival of organisms and the conditions of the environment.  Biological and environmental issues are highlighted in the course through an interdisciplinary approach.

For BS Biology

Major Subjects

GENERAL BOTANY

It is a basic course on the form and external features (morphology) and internal structures (anatomy) of vascular plants taking representative examples from Divisions (1) Psilopsida, (2) Sphenopsida, (3) Pteropsida (ferns, gymnosperms and angiosperms).  The origin and development of the various kinds of cells and tissues of the roots, stems and leaves are included.

Credit Units:  5 units (3lecture/2 laboratory)
Prerequisites:  General/Inorganic Chemistry

GENERAL ZOOLOGY

It is a basic lecture and laboratory course that deals with the general principles of animal biology. Each phylum is studied in detail with respect to its taxonomic position. The morphology, physiology, ecology, and economic importance of representative animals are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of development and the evolutionary blueprint of the animal kingdom.

Credit Units:  5 units (3lecture/2 laboratory)
Prerequisites:  General/Inorganic Chemistry

GENERAL INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY

This course is a comparative survey of invertebrates from sponges to chordates, dealing with aspects of form and function, development, evolution, classification, ecology, and natural history. It attempts to superimpose pattern on the bewildering yet fascinating array of invertebrates, which comprise 99% of the animal kingdom. First-hand encounters with living invertebrates in the lab, presentation of slide shows including a CD-ROM production on invertebrates, and field trips are some of the various learning activities incorporated in the course.

Credit Units:  5 units (3 lecture/2 laboratory)
Prerequisite:  General Zoology

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

An introductory course on the properties and structure of different compounds of carbon and its derivatives. Examples of said compounds are alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, alcohol, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acid and amines. The course will explore in general the properties of these compounds, its preparation and characteristic reactions. The course is designed as a prelude to Biochemistry. As students go through the course, it is hoped that they will appreciate the inherent importance of organic compounds in agriculture, industry, households, and food and their impact on the environment

Credit Units:  5 units (3 lecture/2 laboratory)
Prerequisite:  General/Inorganic Chemistry

BIOCHEMISTRY

Biochemistry is a course designed to assist students in acquiring comprehensive knowledge of the structure, organization, and functions of living matter in molecular terms. This course gives emphasis on the components of living matter and the relationship of biological functions to chemical structure (Structural Chemistry); the totality of chemical reactions (Metabolism); and the chemistry of the processes and substances that store and transmit biological information (Molecular genetics). Current scientific approaches, relevant laboratory techniques, and clinical correlations in biochemistry are likewise included in the course. 

Credit Units: 5 units (3lecture/2 laboratory)
Prerequisites: Organic Chemistry

PLANT PHYSIOLOGY

It deals with the principles and fundamental aspects of vital plant functions including nutrition, photosynthesis, absorption and translocation of materials, growth and development, with emphasis on adaptive mechanisms as well as plant hormones and their actions.

Credit Units: 3 units (2lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Botany  and Biochemistry

ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY

Animal Physiology deals with the principles of animal functions with emphasis on physiologic regulation and adaptation.

Credit Units: 3 units (2lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Zoology or General Biology 2 and Biochemistry

EMBRYOLOGY

Embryology is a general course on the development of vertebrates from a single egg to an adult organism.  It is the study of how a genotype is expressed as a phenotype and what factors influence such expression.   Basically, embryology is a microscopic anatomy course utilizing microscopic and molecular techniques.  It also involves the study of reproductive physiology and heredity.  

Credit Units: 4 units (3lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Zoology  or General Biology 2 and Biochemistry

HISTOLOGY

The course emphasizes tissue organization at the cellular level as seen in the light microscope. Lectures introduce students to each of the major tissue types and organ systems found in the body.  The laboratory involves basic histological techniques and microtechniques. Lessons aim to provide framework for the integration of physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and other basic biology courses.

Credit Units: 3 units (2lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Zoology 

GENERAL SYSTEMATICS AND EVOLUTION 

It is an introductory course on the principles of classification and the theories of evolution.   It is designed to provide an overview of the phylogenetic approach to classification thus emphasizing the concept of evolutionary relationships among all diverse forms of life.

Credit Units: 3 units (2 lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Zoology/General Botany

GENETICS

It includes the mechanisms of heredity and variation, cytogenetics, mutation, nature of genes, population genetics, evolutionary genetics, and biometrical procedures. 

Credit Units: 3 units (2lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Biology 2 and Biochemistry

GENERAL ECOLOGY

This interdisciplinary study seeks to describe problems caused by our use of the natural world. Basic ecological concepts and principles are necessary to appreciate or arrive at an informed opinion on highly politicized environmental issues concerning the terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems. As stewards of mother earth, students should develop commitment to solve problems of the environment taking into consideration ethical, social, political, and economic aspects.

Credit Units: 4 units (3lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Botany and General Zoology or General Biology 2

MICROBIOLOGY

General Microbiology deals with the anatomy, physiology and genetics of microorganisms, i.e., bacteria, algae, fungi, protozoans, viruses, viriods and prions. It also involves the study of their roles in the environment, in industry and medicine. Since algae, fungi and protozoans are usually taken up in other biology courses, emphasis may be placed on the study of bacteria, viruses, viriods and prions. 

Credit Units:   4 units (2lecture/2 laboratory)
Prerequisites:  General Biology 2 and Biochemistry

CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 

It is a study of the biochemical and molecular basis of cell structures and function. It also includes the study of the techniques used to analyze and understand cell structures and functions. 

Credit Units: 3 units (2lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Biology 2 and Biochemistry

COMPARATIVE ANATOMY OF VERTEBRATES

This course presents to the students a comprehensive survey of vertebrate organism characteristics.  This will provide the students a brief introduction through the discussion of the evolution of vertebrate species to lay down the foundation of zoology studies.  Then, the basic architectural patterns of vertebrate animals are discussed together with the topic on evolution.  A brief discussion of the characteristic features of the chordates and the embryonic development gives the students a clear picture of the small horizon of vertebrate animals before going into deeper and wider systemic discourse.  

Credit Units: 5 units (3lecture/2 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Biology 2 or General Zoology

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

The course provides students opportunities to make critical analysis of the relationship among science, technology and society and the social, political, economic, cultural and religious effects resulting from these relationships 

Credit Units: 3 units
Prerequisites: none 

BIORESEARCH 1

It is a two-unit course designed to broaden the students' biological research culture and to provide ample opportunity for the acquisition of skills and hands-on experience and training in the basic and applied research. Students are required to come up with and defend a thesis proposal. 

Credit Units: 2 units
Prerequisite: Technical Writing

BIORESEARCH 2

It is a two-unit course continuation of Bioresearch 1. Students are individually supervised in conducting the experimental component of their research.

Credit Units: 2 units
Prerequisite: Bioresearch 1

IMMUNOLOGY

It is an introductory course that deals with the fundamental concepts of the immune response, a defense mechanism composed of a complex network of interacting molecules and cells which function to recognize and respond to agents foreign to the individual. It also includes concepts on the generation of antibody diversity, immune effector mechanisms and their regulation, and immunological principles as applied to research and medicine. This course focuses on the biochemical mechanisms that act at the molecular and cellular levels to regulate these processes.

Credit Units: 3 units
Prerequisite: Biochemistry

PARASITOLOGY

It is an introductory course that provides students with a comprehensive review of the different groups of parasites affecting a wide array of host species, including humans, and the different factors that influence parasite distribution and host-parasite relationships.  Recent findings and advances in parasitological researches are discussed to understand better interrelationships between parasites and their hosts, particularly of those that affect host species of high economic value, including humans. 

Credit Units: 3 units (2lecture/1 laboratory)
Prerequisites: General Biology 2 and General/Invertebrate Zoology

AQUATIC/TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY

It is an advanced course which provides a rigorous examination of the ecology of terrestrial, marine and brackish water systems based on the principles of population biology and community ecology. The course begins with an overview of ecological concepts then proceeds with the study of the ecology of the major terrestrial and aquatic communities.  Emphasis is placed on current hypotheses concerning the processes controlling the distribution and abundance of organisms in these communities and critical evaluation of primary scientific literature. Laboratory activities are designed to demonstrate some of the principles discussed and provide an opportunity to write scientific papers and researches.

Credit Units: 4 Units
Prerequisite: General Ecology

PHYSICS 1

Physics is concerned with the description of nature —that is, the description and explanation of natural phenomena. These phenomena pertain to all classes of matter in motion or at rest. Its study also includes the different kinds of energy that interact with matter including electricity and magnetism, heat, light, and sound. Physics also aims to explain the basic laws of nature and the most fundamental aspects of matter and energy. It relates these laws and basic concepts of matter and energy to motion of some parts of the body, the many earth processes and environmental issues. The course will also help students transform causal observations with understanding.

Credit Units: 4 units
Prerequisites: Algebra and Trigonometry

PHYSICS 2

It is a continuation of Physics 1. Concepts involving thermal properties of matter, and electricity and magnetism serves as the basis of the course. Concepts associated with wave phenomena and atomic physics are also explored. Sound, light (including lasers) and mechanical vibrations are used as examples of waves.  Properties of fluids are also studied.

Credit Units:  4 Units
Prerequisite:  Physics 1 

Academic Policies and Selection Process

Admission Requirements

Students intending to major in science must meet the following requirements:

1.      a Cumulative Quality Point Average (CQPA) of 2.30
2.      at least a B average in all basic science subjects

Grade Maintenance Requirement

Science majors must meet the 2.30 CQPA requirement of the College and a grade in science subjects not lower than B.

Graduation Requirements

Graduating students must meet the following requirements to make them eligible for graduation:

1.      fulfillment of the required maintenance grade
2.      completion of all academic requirements
3.      passing grade in the written comprehensive examination

Updated: July 23, 2009

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