Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - BISC 337 D100

Plant Biology (4)

Class Number: 2391

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 14, 2026
    Tue, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 101 and 102, both with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A survey and comparison of the major plant groups including their origins, evolution, anatomy, life histories, and impacts on human society. Labs emphasize microscopy and observation of plant specimens.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed to introduce the world of plants by addressing three main themes:

  1. DIVERSITY: We will explore the diversity of the major plant groups and their evolutionary context. (organisms: liverworts, mosses, ferns, conifers, grasses, other flowering plants, etc.)
  2. FORM AND FUNCTION: We will also be covering the anatomy and function of plant bodies and the development and life histories of different plant groups. (topics: cell types and tissues, physical support, transport of water and nutrients, reproductive structures, physical and chemical defences, etc.)
  3. PLANTS AND PEOPLE: Throughout the course what we learn about plants will be placed in a human context by discussing our relationship with plants; how we have used and depended on plants through history, in the modern age, and into the future. (topics: agriculture, medicine, forestry, cultural uses, etc.)

LABORATORY COMPONENT: The lab is designed to complement learning about the plant groups discussed in lecture and develop observation skills. In the lab, students will get practical and hands-on experience with a wide range of plant species. Activities emphasize making careful observation of specimens by eye and using compound and dissecting microscopes, and then documenting these observations in writing and drawings.

Grading

  • Lecture Attendance 5%
  • Quizzes 10%
  • Portfolio Assignments 40%
  • Midterm Exam 15%
  • Final Exam 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

A Photographic Atlas for the Botany Laboratory, 7ed, by Samuel R. Rushforth, Robert R. Robbins, John L. Crawley, Kent M. Van De Graaff

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

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


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.