Search | Directories | Reference Tools
UW Home > UWIN > Student Guide > Course Catalog 

Instructor Class Description

Time Schedule:

Soo-Hyung Kim
ESRM 478
Seattle Campus

Plant Ecophysiology

Explores physiological mechanisms that underlie ecological observations, including how above- and below-ground microclimates develop and affect plant physiological processes. Discusses acclimation to environmental change along with species differences in physiological processes and plant's occupation of heterogeneous environments. Laboratories emphasize field measurement techniques. Prerequisite: either BIOL 102, BIOL 162, or BIOL 220. Offered: jointly with BIOL 424; W

Class description

This course will cover physiological and physical aspects of how plants function and interact with the environment. Students will be introduced to the fundamental principles that are the basis for understanding plant responses to the environment. Students will be exposed to basic ecophysiological measurement methods. This course will address stress responses, acclimation and adaptation of plants to the environment with an emphasis in whole-plant responses. The impacts of global climate change on plants and their role in the ecosystem processes will be discussed.

Student learning goals

General method of instruction

There will be lectures, discussions, and laboratories in the greenhouse or in the field. Laboratories will focus on measurement techniques used in plant ecophysiology. There will also be guest lecturers who have special interests and expertise in particular aspects of plant ecophysiology.

Recommended preparation

Either BIOL 102, BIOL 162, or BIOL 220

Class assignments and grading

Lab reports; Journal article discussions; Research paper; Peer review

Assignments described above plus two in-class midterms and one take-home final. Participation is evaluated throughout the quarter. There may be opportunities for earning extra credits.


The information above is intended to be helpful in choosing courses. Because the instructor may further develop his/her plans for this course, its characteristics are subject to change without notice. In most cases, the official course syllabus will be distributed on the first day of class.
Additional Information
Last Update by Soo-Hyung Kim
Date: 10/15/2007