BIOL 140-02, Biology II, Spring 2008

Abstract

One of my major objectives for this course is to provide the best introduction to organismal biology you could possibly obtain in one semester. This will involve, in part, my providing the information and resources to you. I will also provide, hopefully, the stimulation and impetus for you to dig into this material. Without this second component - your active involvement - we will just be going through the motions. To achieve this major objective I feel it is essential that you gain factual knowledge such as terminology, classifications, and methods. It is also essential that you learn fundamental principles. With these you will be able to apply the course material to solve problems and improve your thinking skills. These specific skills and competencies are important should you choose a profession related to the biological sciences. Another objective of mine is to sensitize you to the life process as it occurs in organisms. With this awareness, you may view other organisms and yourself differently. Hopefully you will develop a respect of the life process, which will influence your decisions in the future. When you have finished this course, you will be able to take upper-level biology courses at Rhodes. Therefore, the foundation you receive in this course is quite important. If you are not going on in Biology, it is especially important for you to master this material because you will not be exposed to it again in a formal manner. You will, however, be exposed to this material throughout your life.