BIO 654  Seminar in Ichthyology, 2 credits, Spring 2004Tentative Syllabus

Meeting Time: Thursday 3:30 – 4:45 pm, BISC A105

Professor: Dr. Cheryl Wilga, cwilga@uri.edu, BISC 114, 874-9020

This is an advanced seminar in organismal functional biology. In this seminar we will investigate the ecology, physiology, mechanics and morphology of organisms as it pertains to function. The first few meetings will focus on reading a review chapter on selected topics then discussing a relevant literature paper.  For the rest of the meetings, you will put together a review presentation using PowerPoint on your chosen topic (approved by myself) and select a literature paper on your topic (1980-present, also to be approved by myself) to be discussed during the next class. Therefore, we will begin a meeting by discussing a paper from the previous weeks topic, followed by a presentation of the new topic, each ~45 minutes long. Grades will be based on your presentations and on your participation in discussion, 50% each (A Excellent, B Good, C Poor). Your classmates will grade your presentation according to current science seminar standards (see page 3); this will contribute to 50% of that presentation grade, while my evaluation will provide the remaining 50% of your presentation grade.  Everyone will contribute two review presentations and participate in all discussions. Include references in your presentation. See handout for tips for a good presentation.