Time Schedule:
Evan A. Sugden
BIOL 454
Seattle Campus
Covers the biology of terrestrial arthropods, with emphasis on insects. Includes structure, classification, physiology, and ecology of insects. Interrelationships of insects and man. Requires at least one weekend field trip. Prerequisite: BIOL 180.
Class description
Biology and Ecology of insects and related arthropods
Student learning goals
Understand the importance of entomology in today's world, able to cite at east 5 examples of problems for which entomology offers modern solutions.
Understand the biology and natural history of the major taxonomic groups of insects, including the major theories for the evolutionary success of insects.
Be able to recognize the major orders of insects based on images of typical species; know the scientific names and common names.
Know basic facts and answers to a list of common questions about insects and be able to explain.
Know in depth one aspect of entomology (term paper topic).
Demonstrate increased personal skills in writing a research paper.
General method of instruction
Daily lecture supplemented with guest lectures. Lecture slide shows generally posted on the course web site for review. Term paper required with much writing help available. Mid-term exam; cumulative final exam, standard formats. On-campus field excursions in some terms.
Recommended preparation
College-level basic biology required. Preferred: some lab &/or field course experience.
Class assignments and grading
Readings from textbook, occasional outside readings. Two take-home problem sets in lieu of mid-term exam. Term paper due last week of class also will require formalized topic selection and outline turn-in early in the term.
Not curved. Problem Sets 30%, Final Exam 30%, Term Paper 40%. Many Extra Credit project options will be available for a maximum point value equivalent of 20%; Extra Credit points are added to the course total at the end of the term.
