Many important issues facing humankind today are biological in nature.
These issues include pollution, overpopulation, destruction of natural habitats, extinction, medical and biological discoveries and their effect on animal health, understanding life's origins, genetic engineering, production of new food crops, and many other topics. After successful completion of this course the student will appreciate the unity and diversity of life, the intricate connections within and between living things, and be better able to interpret data and more intelligently act upon important issues facing our society. The lecture grade will be based on four 100 point examinations in multiple choice format which are not comprehensive from one exam to the next. The final, given during the final week, is worth 150 points and will be comprehensive. After this time period, the answer cards and test booklets will be unavailable for student examination.