Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2023 - BISC 316 D100

Vertebrate Biology (4)

Class Number: 1955

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 6 – Dec 5, 2023: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 10, 2023: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 13, 2023
    Wed, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

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

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An overview of the evolution and diversity of vertebrates, with an emphasis on the evolutionary innovations and characteristics that led to this diversity. Labs explore comparative anatomy through dissections, bones, and other specimens.

COURSE DETAILS:

The biology, taxonomy, and evolution of vertebrates are reviewed. Organ systems and functions of principal adaptations are studied through comparative anatomy. Characteristics of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals are examined to understand how vertebrates cope in different environments. Representative species are dissected and the anatomy and function of organ systems are examined in laboratory sessions.

Grading

  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Final Exam 30%
  • Written Assignment 10%
  • Lab Exam I 15%
  • Lab Exam II 25%

NOTES:

Lectures begin September 6, 2023.

Laboratory sessions begin in week of September 11, 2023.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

LECTURE TEXTBOOK:

F.H. Pough, W.E. Bemis, B. McGuire and C.M. Janis 2023. Vertebrate Life.

Prentice Hall, New Jersey. 11th Edition.

LABORATORY TEXTBOOK:

De Iuliis, G. and D. Pulerà. The Dissection of Vertebrates: A Laboratory Manual. Any edition is fine. (Required. Note: a digital copy of the 1st edition is available through SFU Library for free.)


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 semester 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.