Meets the following requirements: ES   

This is an introductory level course aimed at exploring organismal diversity, from bacteria to humans.  To structure our exploration, we will use a chronological examination of life on the planet Earth, from the formation of organic molecules early in the Earth's geological history to the present.  We will analyze the unfolding of the diversity of life by emphasizing evolutionary innovation while keeping in mind the universal features shared by all life on this planet.  Students will become familiar with classification schemes of organisms, including the six-kingdom system in current use, as well as the conceptual underpinnings of various approaches to systematics.  Themes to be covered include fossil formation and the interpretation of the fossil record.  Patterns of speciation, adaptive radiations, mass extinctions and their causes will also be covered.  In the analysis of these patterns, students will also be introduced to important ecological events such as the invasion of terrestrial habitats by plants, vertebrates, and invertebrates, the insects in particular. We will also discuss events that are not directly recorded in the fossil record such as biochemical innovations of bacteria, including the evolution of critical processes such as nitrogen fixation, photosynthesis and aerobic respiration. We will meet for two lecture sessions per week.  Evaluation is based on quizzes, written assignments, and a final presentation.

Level:  Introductory.    Offered every other year.  Class limit: 20.  *ES*