BiSc110: Environmental Biology
Fall 2003 Course Syllabus

• Course Information
• Lecture Schedule
• Laboratory Information
• Additional Information

Course Information

Description. Environmental Biology is an introductory laboratory science course, exploring fundamental ecological principles that provide a foundation for the understanding of our natural world, and the environmental issues that affect it. The course emphasizes the process of science as it relates to a biological description of the natural world; and as it relates to the problem-solving needs associated with environmental issues.
Prerequisites: none.

Objectives. This course will enable you as a student to:

1. Demonstrate skills in observation and scientific analysis;
2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of fundamental scientific arguments relating to ecological principles;
3. Demonstrate the ability to link ecological principles to environmental issues; and
4. Demonstrate the ability, as an individual and as a member of community, to engage in informed decision-making with regard to environmental issues.

Text. Bush, Mark B. 2002. Ecology of a Changing Planet, 3rd ed. Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
         Environmental Biology Syllabus and Lab Manual

Evaluation. Evaluation is based upon your performance on quizzes and exams, homework, and classroom attendance and participation. Attendance records are maintained.

Requirements

• Attendance records will be carefully monitored. In the event of an absence, YOU are responsible for any material or exercises covered, and any homework that is assigned.
• Preparation for and participation in class and classroom exercises are important. Be prepared. Read assigned material prior to class, arrive on time, and be ready to begin. Unannounced quizzes are possible

Lecture Schedule

Laboratory Information

Topics

• Hypothesis formulation and the null hypothesis
• Natural variation within a population
• Bird identification and behavior, feeder activity
• Plant pollinators
• Seed germination ecophysiology
• Microhabitats and the birds that use them
• Birds and their food preferences
• Epidemiology
• Maxwell Wildlife Refuge Field Trip

Lab requirements. Attendance in lab will be carefully monitored. Any absence from a laboratory will need to be made on 1 of 2 designated make-up days.   Any laboratory missed and not made up will result in the lowering of the course grade by one letter, unless the absence and lack of make-up are excused by the instructor of the course, in which case the penalty will only be the loss of points for that lab.

Research Paper.  Each student will research and write a 6-8 page paper on an environmental biology topic.  The paper will include the ecological as well as societal implications.  An outline with specific requirements for the paper is included in the syllabus.  The paper is due Nov. 7.  Additional points will be given to papers that are submitted earlier than Nov. 1.  Note!!
No papers will be accepted after Nov. 7.

Additional Course Information

Special Needs. Any students in this course who have a disability that may prevent them from fully demonstrating their abilities should contact the instructor personally as soon as possible to discuss any accommodations necessary to ensure full participation and facilitate equal educational opportunity.

Disclaimer. The course syllabus is subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances and with the approval of the instructor.

Hesston College Mission Statement. Hesston College educates and nurtures each student within a Christ-centered community, integrating thought, life and faith for service to others in the church and the world.

Hesston College Outcomes. Hesston College strives to help each student become a competent, critical and integrative thinker, a socially responsible person and a person of Biblical understanding and faith.

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