BIO 110 Recap

Fall2025-week02-Natural Selection, Homology, and Reading the Tree of Life

This episode recaps the second week of Dr. Mike Rosario's Bio 110 lectures, diving into examples of evolution and natural selection, the evidence supporting evolution, and how to interpret phylogenetic trees. Get ready for soapberry bugs, methicillin-resistant bacteria, surprising fossil finds, and tips for mastering phylogenies—all drawn from real class discussions.

Foundations and Frontiers of Genetics - Week 11

This episode journeys through genetics, starting with Gregor Mendel's pea plant experiments and his laws of inheritance. Dr. Rosario explains chromosomal interactions, gene mapping, and X-linked traits, while Rosalind Franklin's contributions to DNA structure are highlighted. We also examine genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia, illustrating their biological mechanisms and evolutionary significance.

From Meiosis to Mendel - Week 10

This episode examines how meiosis and gamete formation drive genetic diversity, compares sexual and asexual reproduction in various organisms, and unpacks the complexity of sexual life cycles in animals, plants, and fungi. We also celebrate Gregor Mendel’s groundbreaking experiments with pea plants and their lasting impact on modern genetics. Listen for insights into the processes that shape life’s diversity.

Understanding Cell Division with Dr. Rosario - Week 09

Dr. Rosario unpacks the significance of cell division, taking listeners through mitosis and meiosis and explaining chromosomes with a clever playing card analogy. The episode discusses the cell cycle phases, critical checkpoints in division, and the differences between benign and malignant tumor behavior. Unique insights into mitosis in plants and animals offer a captivating look at evolutionary adaptations.

Metabolism, Cellular Respiration, and Oxygen Deficiency - Week 6

This episode unpacks the fundamentals of metabolism, explaining energy transformations and ATP’s vital role with vivid analogies. We cover the stages of cellular respiration, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, while also analyzing how cells adapt to oxygen deficiency with examples like muscle fatigue in athletes. Learn the science behind energy generation and the impact of oxygen on metabolism.

Understanding Cellular Borders and Transport - Week 5

This episode unpacks the essentials of cellular plasma membranes, their structural components, and the proteins that enable their crucial functions. Learn about passive transport mechanisms like osmosis and diffusion, along with active processes powered by ATP, described as "molecular fuel." From "salty fries" analogies to discussions on proton pumps, this is your guide to how cells manage selective permeability and molecular movement.

Class Updates and Cellular Biology Insights - Week 04

This episode covers important updates on quizzes, study guides, and exam grades, offering tips for learning success. Dr. Rosario dives into cellular organization, comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and uses creative analogies to explain their functions. The discussion concludes with an overview of organelles, the endomembrane system, and key differences between plant and animal cells.

Biology and Chemistry Basics Made Simple - Week 3

Join us as we uncover the essentials of biological classification, from clades to paraphyletic and polyphyletic groups, highlighting their role in conservation efforts. Learn about the chemical foundations of life, including the CHON elements and different bond types, with creative mnemonics and examples. Plus, get practical exam prep tips and analogies for mastering organic molecules like lipids and proteins.

Darwin, MRSA, and Evolutionary Threads - Week 2

This episode unpacks Darwin’s insights on natural selection and "descent with modification," highlighting examples like antibiotic resistance in MRSA and the evolution of Darwin's finches. With a focus on fossil evidence such as Pakicetus and comparative phylogenetic traits, the discussion illustrates evolution in action. Dr. Rosario’s unique classroom techniques add a vibrant touch to understanding biological classifications and evolutionary relationships.

BIO 110 with Dr. Rosario - Week 1

Eric and Dr. Mike Rosario discuss navigating Bio 110, including tips for using tools like D2L and Top Hat effectively. Hear how the Study Cycle can transform your learning habits with techniques like distributed practice and concept mapping. Central course themes such as genetics, ecosystems, and evolution are introduced, with examples like CRISPR and evolutionary biology explained through bird and bat wings.