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HERPETOLOGY COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will consider the morphology, physiology, behavior, ecology and taxonomy of amphibians and reptiles. CREDIT HOURS: Four semester hours. PREREQUISITES: Biology 122, General Zoology. Successful completion of this course requires that the student have the ability to read, take accurate notes and assimilate large amounts of diverse information. Also, the student should have an understanding of basic microscopy and techniques of dissection. COURSE OBJECTIVES: Review the morphology and physiology and describe major themes of evolution and phylogenetic relationships among amphibians and reptiles. Develop an understanding of the unique structural, physiological and behavioral adaptations of organisms to their particular environment. Develop skills in the location and identification of amphibians and reptiles in the field. COURSE REQUIREMENTS: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the topics discussed in lecture, a working knowledge of the anatomy, and recognition of selected species. Participate in the laboratory. Develop a functional dichotomous key to all orders and suborders of amphibians and reptiles and the families and genera indigenous to Alabama. Know all orders, suborders, North American families, Alabama genera and Sumter County species COURSE MATERIALS: The Reptiles & Amphibians of Alabama, by R.H. Mount EVALUATION AND GRADING: Course grade will be based on a possible points earned from three lecture exams, two laboratory exams, a dichotomous key and paper or project (grad students). Grades will be assigned according to the percentage of possible points earned as follows: > 90% = A, 80-89% = B, 70-79% = C, 60-69% = D and < 60% = F Any student dissatisfied with his/her grade during this course is urged to discuss this with the instructor. ATTENDANCE POLICY: See the attendance policy in the UWA General Catalogue. Roll will be checked at the beginning of class, anyone coming in late will be counted absent. Excused absences are not recognized. Grade will not be lowered on the basis of attendance. However, to receive credit for this course a student must attend at least two- thirds (2/3) of all class meetings. ASSESSMENT DAY: As part of the University's plan to assess institutional effectiveness, a day is set aside each semester for assessment activities. Although no day classes meet on this designated day, students are required to participate in assessment activities when they are called upon to do so. DISABILITY: The University of West Alabama strives to make its programs accessible to qualified persons defined as disabled under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. For information, students should refer to the UWA Catalog and contact the Student Success Center, Foust Hall 7, (205)652-3651,or the Office of Student Life, Webb Hall 311, (205)652- 3581. CONTENT/SCHEDULING CHANGE: The instructional schedule reflects expected class progress in course subject matter and is considered tentative. The schedule is subject to change in content and scope at the instructor's discretion. HONESTY/INTEGRITY: The UWA Academic Dishonesty policy stated in the General Catalogue and the student handbook will be followed in this course. stated in the General Catalogue and the student handbook will be followed in this course. stated in the General Catalogue and the student handbook will be followed in this course. stated in the General Catalogue and the student handbook will be followed in this course. stated in the General Catalogue and the student handbook will be followed in this course. |