Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2024 - BISC 204 D100

Ecology (3)

Class Number: 2682

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Tue, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Thu, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 23, 2024
    Tue, 7:00–9:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

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

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the different approaches used to study the natural world and explores ecological concepts and theory relating to animal behaviour, population dynamics, the distribution of species, structure of communities and the function of ecosystems.

COURSE DETAILS:

Biology 204 (Introduction to Ecology) emphasizes understanding species interactions in biological communities and the relationships between communities and the environment. Serves as a prerequisite to many 400-level BISC courses and senior seminars in ecology, population and conservation biology. Grades for this course will be based on student performance on a variety of in-class activities and exams, out-of-class homework assignments, and participation in tutorial sessions.

Grading

  • • Exams 55%
  • • Special Assignments (in-class and otherwise) 30%
  • • Paper Review 5%
  • • Attendance and Participation in Tutorial Sessions 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

None.

RECOMMENDED READING:

The Economy of Nature by Robert E. Ricklefs and Rick Relyea, W. H. Freeman, 9th Edition (7th  or 8th edition or Elements of Ecology Candian Edition by Smith T., Smith L and Waters I, will work too).

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.