Text: Evolution by Douglas Futuyma. In addition, research papers will be assigned for
analysis and comment.
OVERVIEW AND STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
This course is an introduction to the study of evolutionary processes. We will examine the basic mechanisms for evolution, including processes that are adaptive and neutral with respect to adaptation. Evolution will be examined at a variety of scales, from molecular to ecological, and from changes in populations over a few generations to patterns over millennia. Along with these topics we will explore the ways that questions about evolution are answered. You will be asked to read and evaluate original literature so that you have direct access to developments in the field of evolution. Your responsibilities include attending class and participating in discussions, and completing assignments on time.
Grading in Biology 241 will be based on the following:
|
Percent |
Component |
|
45 |
Three Hour Tests |
|
20 |
Weekly assignments. These will be short summaries and critiques of supplemental readings or brief reports on computer simulations. The readings or assignments will be provided in class or online |
|
10 |
Presentation during the last two weeks of class, on a topic of your choosing but which addresses the integration of evolutionary principles into current issues about agriculture, conservation or human health. |
|
10 |
Attendance and participation in class discussions. More than three unexcused absences will result in point deductions. |
|
15 |
Final Exam (Required) - two hours in length |
Policy on Extensions: No extensions will be granted for the assignments
listed below on the basis of conflicts with assignments in other classes; look
at all your syllabi now and plan ahead for the semester. The only exception is
for medical problems serious enough that you are consulting with the College or
other professional health services. If an absence is excused, College rules
state that you are responsible for the work assigned for that day and class work
from that day.
Policy for Students with Disabilities: If you have a disability and feel
that you may have need for some type of academic accommodation in order to
participate fully in this class, please feel free to discuss your concerns with
me in private and also contact Erin Salva,
Coordinator of Disability Services at PBX 5453 or via e-mail at
salvae@kenyon.edu."
|
Date |
Topic/Assignment |
Text |
|
8/28 |
What is "evolution"? - Five Scientific Theories |
1 |
|
8/30 |
Phylogenetic Analysis - Patterns of Descent with Modification |
2, handout |
|
9/4 |
Maximum likelihood methods and challenges in phylogenetics |
2 |
|
9/6 |
Patterns of change, adaptive radiation |
3 |
|
9/11 |
The fossil record; punctuated equilibrium? |
4 |
|
9/13 |
Evolution through deep time |
5 |
|
9/18 |
The evolution of biodiversity |
7 |
9/20 |
Hour Test 1 |
|
|
9/25 |
The origin of genetic variation |
8 |
|
9/27 |
The nature of variation, single locus approach |
9 |
|
10/2 |
The nature of variation; quantitative characters and subpopulations |
9 |
|
10/4 |
Evolution through genetic drift |
10 |
|
10/9 |
October Break |
|
|
10/11 |
Natural selection |
11 |
10/16 |
The genetics of natural selection |
12 |
|
10/18 |
Hour
Test 2 |
|
|
10/23 |
Selection on quantitative characters |
13 |
|
10/25 |
The evolution of phenotypic plasticity |
13 |
|
10/30 |
The nature of “species” |
15 |
|
11/1 |
Process of speciation (Founders Day, note earlier class time) |
16 |
|
11/6 |
Speciation, continued |
16 |
|
11/8 |
Life History adaptations and sexual selection |
17 |
|
11/13 |
Evolution of genomes |
19 |
|
11/15 |
Evolution and development, Take-home Test 3 due |
20 |
|
11/27 |
Evolution and development, continued |
20 |
|
11/29 |
Students’ choice |
|
|
12/4, 6, 11 |
Evolution and Society – student presentations |
|
|
12/15 |
FINAL EXAM 6:30-8:30 pm |
|