For Dec. 4th: Evolution

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To prepare for our discussion of evolution, read one of the following Biology by Raven 20.1, 20.3, 20.4 (20.2 optional) and 22.5 (adaptive radiation). You might also find it useful to read these as well:

  • EO Wilson’s Life on Earth chapter 3
  • OpenStax Biology 18.1 and part of 18.2 (adaptive radiation)

Also, watch this TED talk by Jonathan Haidt to get acquainted with group selection, altruism and the free-rider problem.

There may be a short quiz during class on these materials.

Important Upcoming Dates

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Here’s a rundown of what’s coming up:

11/15: Meet briefly with Peyton to discuss how the semester is going (worth a quiz)
11/16: Brain Dissection write-up due
11/20: Professionalism for the Homestretch assignment due
11/20: Quiz requested by the class to review Cell Bio & the Central Dogma
11/27 12/3: Interdisciplinary Connections assignment due
11/29: Exam on Cell Biology, the Central Dogma & Genetics during class
12/10: Final Exam as a take-home exam

Due Nov. 20th: Professionalism for the Homestretch

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Things can get crazy as the end of the semester nears. Though it may seem like this assignment could only add to the craziness, it shouldn’t take long and should be worth it. Read at least one chapter in the book you’ve chosen for the professionalism part of the course that you think will help you manage your academic work and/or wellbeing for the remainder of the semester; then share your thoughts through this form. Continue reading →

For 11/8: Genetic Diseases & Gene Therapy

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To prepare for class this Thursday, please do the following:

  • Read 11.1, 11.2 and 13.5 in Biology by Raven; if you’re using the optional text EO Wilson’s Life on Earth, the corresponding chapters are 11.3 & 12.1. You may find other related sections of the book useful as well as the Wikipedia entry on Genetic Disorder for understanding these sections.
  • Listen to these NPR news story “New Genetic Test Screens Would-Be Parents” and then answer the following questions:

Continue reading →

Exam on Nov. 29th

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We’ll aim to have an exam on Thursday, November 29th that covers cell biology, Central Dogma and genetics topics. Part of class on November 27th will be dedicated to reviewing for the exam. As mentioned before, old exams can be an especially useful resource when preparing for an exam.