1. Introduction, Course Organization of MIT 7.016 Introductory Biology, Fall 2018

Introduction

This tutorial provides a structured overview of the MIT 7.016 Introductory Biology course, as presented in the Fall 2018 semester. It serves to guide students through the course organization, introduce the teaching team, and outline key topics in modern biology. This information is valuable for anyone looking to understand the course layout and content, whether for academic purposes or personal interest in biology.

Step 1: Meet the Instructors and Teaching Team

• Instructors: Barbara Imperiali and Adam Martin lead the course.
• Teaching Assistants: Familiarize yourself with the teaching team, as they will provide support throughout the course.
• Engagement: Reach out to the instructors and TAs for clarification on course material and assignments.

Step 2: Understand Course Organization

• Lecture Schedule: Review the course schedule to keep track of lecture topics and important dates.
• Weekly Topics: Each week will cover specific concepts in biology. Make a note of the topics to prepare in advance.
• Assessments: Be aware of the evaluation methods, including quizzes, exams, and assignments. Plan your study schedule accordingly.

Step 3: Explore Key Topics in Modern Biology

• Overview of Topics: The course will cover various foundational concepts in biology. Key areas include:
  • Cell biology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular biology
  • Evolution
• Relevance: Understanding these topics is crucial as they form the basis of modern biological sciences.

Step 4: Utilize Course Resources

• Course Materials: Access lecture notes, readings, and supplementary materials provided through the course website.
• Additional Resources: Explore recommended textbooks and online resources for deeper understanding and context.

Step 5: Engage with the Content

• Active Participation: Attend lectures and participate in discussions to enhance comprehension.
• Study Groups: Form study groups with classmates to discuss challenging concepts and prepare for assessments.

Conclusion

This tutorial has outlined the essential components of the MIT 7.016 Introductory Biology course. By familiarizing yourself with the instructors, course organization, and key biology topics, you can effectively prepare for a successful semester. Next steps include reviewing the course materials and actively engaging with the content to maximize your learning experience. For further exploration, consider checking out the complete course available on MIT OpenCourseWare.