BY 122, GENERAL ZOOLOGY
Course Syllabus

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course surveys the major taxa of the animal kingdom and provides an introduction to animal anatomy, physiology, ecology and evolution.

CREDIT HOURS:

Four semester hours.

PREREQUISITES:

Biology 101, General Biology. 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:

Establish a knowledge base for advanced work in the biological sciences through developing an understanding of the principles of animal taxonomy and knowledge of the characteristics of the major phyla of animals. Promote an appreciation of the diversity of animal life and its ecological significance. Introduce the structure and function of the principal body systems of animals. Develop laboratory skills necessary for biological study.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the morphology, physiology, and phylogeny of the taxa discussed. Participate in laboratory exercises and be able to recognize and classify the animals studied and show a working knowledge of their anatomy.

COURSE MATERIALS:

Biology of Animals, 7^th Edition, 1998 by C.P. Hickman, L.S. Roberts and A. Larson

A Photographic Atlas for the Zoology Laboratory, 1995 by K.M. Van de Graaff and J.L. Crawley

EVALUATION AND GRADING:

Course grade will be based on a possible 700 points earned from the three lecture exams (300pts), two laboratory exams (200pts), a laboratory notebook (50pts), and a final exam (150pts).

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.

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