Fall 2019 Course Syllabi

ECOLOGY - BIOL 230 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: shubham.datta@dakotacollege.edu LECTURE: 1:00 to 1:50 am MWF in NSC 103 LAB: 1:00-2:50 am on Tuesday in NSC 103 TEXT: Ecology, Concepts and Applications, Molles, 6th 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.