Course Description:
This course will introduce the vocabulary and principles of plant biology. The objectives will be for each student to demonstrate a working knowledge of the terminology used in botanical studies and a basic understanding of the anatomical, cytological, reproductive, ecological, and physiological phenomena unique to plants in general, specific plant taxa, and plant-like organisms of other kingdoms.
Course Objectives:
To provide the student with the opportunity to examine the natural history and biodiversity of plants with emphasis on systematic, ecology, and the development of these organisms.
Laboratory:
The laboratory will include determination of cell and tissue types found in plants, a survey of the plant kingdom and other related groups.
Course Requirements:
There will be three 1-hour exams during the course of the semester worth 100 points each. These exams will be announced at least one week in advanced of the actual exam date and returned within one week of the exam. On the last day of the week (either Friday or Thursday depending upon the class schedule) there is the possibility of a quiz. The total point value of the quiz will depend upon the amount of material and the importance of that material to the course. The final exam will be cumulative for the entire semester and will be given during final exam week. You will be responsible for at least one primary journal article summary. The summary will cover a topic within the scope of the course and will be a non-review article.
I do not grade on a curve and I do not give extra credit assignments.
Course grade will be determined in the following manner:
Lecture: ¾ 3-one hour exams @ 100 points each
1 final exam @ 200 points
Quizzes various number of points
Article Summary @25 points
Laboratory: ¼ Laboratory Notebook @ 100 points
2 Laboratory Exams @ 50 points each
Textbook:
The textbook is Raven P.R., R.F. Evert, and S.E. Eichhorn. 1996 Biology of Plants. Freeman/Worth Publishers. Laboratory Text: Dean H.L. and R.W. Schumacher. 1998. Biology of Plants: Laboratory Exercises W.C. Brown Publishers, Dubuques IA. Various Handouts as needed
Lab Notebook:
The lab instructor will collect the notebooks twice during the semester to check on the condition of the assignments. One weeks notice will be given for collection and a grade out of 50 points will be assigned. The grade will reflect whether or not you are completing the assignments correctly.