Fall 2016 Course Syllabi

ECOLOGY - BIOL 230 Fall 2016

COURSE SYLLABUS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is an in depth study of the general principles of Ecology.

We will study the scientific method, biomes and ecosystems, population dynamics, predator-

prey interactions, and global ecosystems. This course consists of three one-hour lecture and one

two-hour lab each week.

INSTRUCTOR: Shubham Datta, PhD

OFFICE: NSC 113

OFFICE HOURS: M, W, F 9:00-10:50, T, 10:00-12:00; and by appointment

PHONE: 701-228-5463

E-MAIL:

LECTURE: 1:00 to 1:50 am MWF in NSC 103

LAB: 1:00-2:50 am on Tuesday in NSC 128

TEXT: Ecology, Concepts and Applications, Molles, 4th Edition

GRADING: Grading is based on a standard college curve, where students earn a grade based

upon the percent of total possible points they obtain. The lecture component of this course

consists of 600 points (12 drop quizzes worth 5 points each, assignments worth 100 points, 3

lecture exams worth 100 points each, and one final exam worth 150 points). Drop quizzes and

assignments may not be made up, but students will be able to drop the lowest two scores of the

twelve drop quizzes given during the semester. There is a one week grace period to make up

any missed exam. Any missed exam not made up within the allotted time will be given a zero.

Make-up exams may be of an essay nature and are usually considered more difficult. (Note: It is

the responsibility of the student to schedule make-up work with the instructor at a time

convenient to both parties.) Final letter grades are assigned based on the following criteria:

A = 90-100% of the total points

B = 80-90% of the total points

C = 70-80% of the total points

D = 60-70% of the total points

F =

<60% of the total points

ECOLOGY - BIOL 230

GOAL:

The goal of this course is to facilitate learning about Ecology so that students better

understand and appreciate the inter-relationships between animals and their environment in order

to promote the advancement of life sciences in society and to prepare students for a career in life

sciences.

OBJECTIVES:

1) To learn and retain information essential to a broad knowledge of ecology.

2) To understand and utilize scientific methods of inquiry.