General Biology

General Biology II

Spring 2012

Christopher L. Higgins	Office Hours:
Office: 213I Science Building	MWF: 11:00 – 11:00
Phone: (254) 968-9019	TR: 12:00 - 1:00
E-mail: higgins@tarleton.edu	And by appointment

Course Description:

BIOL 121 is designed to provide a broad overview of animal biology, emphasizing animal diversity and taxonomy, basic anatomy and physiology, evolutionary adaptations, and ecological relationships. The first part of the course will provide a basic overview of the various animal phyla starting with the protozoans, which are the simplest animal-like organisms, and ending with human evolution. The second part of the course will provide a comparative examination of the major organ systems found in animals, with an emphasis on vertebrate organ systems. The third part of the course will provide a broad overview of how animals interact with each other and their environment. The entire course will be placed within an evolutionary context.

Major Learning Outcomes:

	Students should gain an appreciation for the diversity of animals, both extinct and living forms.
	Students should be able to compare and contrast the various animal phyla, with particular attention to key evolutionary advances.
	Students should develop a working knowledge of the major organ systems, including digestive, respiratory, circulatory, immune, nervous, and reproductive systems.
	Students should gain an appreciation for the diversity of behaviors that animals use in everyday life.
	Students should be able to describe how animals interact with each other and their environment.