Ask A Scientist© Biology Archive

Author:      lamb
Text:        What basic knowledge concerning biology do you think a colleg-
bound HS student should have when she enters a university?  Some things must 
be more important than others.  What, in your opinion, will give that student 
the best base on which to build?  I realize that this is a very large subject 
to address, but what are your general feelings?

Response #:  1 of 2
Author:      wizkid
Text:        I think the student should have a basic understanding of the 
classification of living things, representative organisms of all the phyla, 
the major subcellular organelles and their functions, the basic biochemical 
reactions (Krebs, photosynthesis), basic knowledge of genetics (what is DNA, 
RNA, translation, transcription), and some physiology and anatomy of 
vertebrates.  And of course, with all the emphasis on conservation, a good 
exposure to ecology and environmental science.

Response #:  2 of 2
Author:      moodywj
Text:        I teach biology at a major university, and WizKid gives a great 
answer.  I would add, first, a basic knowledge of evolution by natural 
selection and, second, an understanding of the scientific method.  What is an 
experiment, a control, and a hypothesis.  Most important of all is natural 
curiosity and the willingness to work hard to learn.  And the feeling of 
excitement when you find out how much we do not know.