It is a prerequisite for almost all further life science courses at the University of Toronto. Students enrolled in BIO150Y1 must have previously completed either OAC Biology or an equivalent course, or have received permission from the Course Coordinator. In the first week of classes students should determine when and where their laboratories are held and purchase the course materials from the U of T Bookstore. In the 12 formal lab periods, students undertake the following experiments investigating such topics as the evolution of metal tolerance in plants, protein electrophoresis, and phenotypic plasticity and the growth responses of forest-under storey plants to light. A comparative study is made of vertebrate morphology.
Students learn the basics of phylogenetic reconstruction.
In addition they learn the basic concepts of game theory to examine the evolution of cooperative behaviour. Online exercises include Saving the Whooping Crane and Optimal Foraging Game. Graphical and statistical techniques are included in instructions fro data analysis. A laboratory manual, lecture guides, and an audiotape for the diversity tours are required, and are purchased at the U of T Bookstore. Ramsay Wright Building Rm 019, 978-2084.