Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - BISC 300 D100

Evolution (3)

Class Number: 1986

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 17, 2025
    Thu, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 202 with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: BISC 204.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The phenomenon of organic evolution, and the major processes leading to changes in allele frequencies over time, namely mutation, migration, genetic drift and natural selection. Topics include evolutionary genetics, adaptation, sexual selection, the origin of life, speciation, and the major evolutionary trends over geological time.

COURSE DETAILS:

Professor’s Statement 
My objectives are to give students a broad appreciation for, and understanding of evolutionary theory, its history, major controversies, and the power of scientific explanation. Reading, thinking, and discussion are key elements for success and a good grade in this course.

Lecture Topic Sequence

 
The textbook by Zimmer and Emlen has 18 chapters. We will cover all chapter topics during this course, but not all in the same detail. Attendance at lectures and following suggested readings in the textbook is your best guide to the emphasis given to various topics. 

During introductory week 1, I will introduce the course and cover some material not in the text, but relevant to the broad study of evolutionary biology (cosmology, origin of life concepts). 

Grading

  • • Midterm 1 (February 3) 20%
  • • Midterm 2 (March 12) 25%
  • • Final Exam (3 hours) (TBA) 40%
  • • Tutorial Participation 15%

NOTES:

Note: both midterm exams will be held during regular lecture times.  If you already know that you have any conflict on either Midterm date, I advise you to take this course in another semester! 

Accommodation for a missed exam is possible, but only with a well-documented reason that is beyond your control.  If you do miss an exam, you need to inform me as soon as possible, ideally before the exam time. 

REQUIREMENTS:

Mode of Teaching:


In person lectures and tutorials during scheduled dates and times.  Audio recording of lectures.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Required textbook is available as paper copies or digitally through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

REQUIRED READING:

D.J.  Emlen and C.  Zimmer (3rd edition, 2020).  Evolution, Making Sense of Life.  Macmillan Learning, publisher

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.