Ecology
of Arid and Semi-Arid Lands
Spring 2006
Tu & Th 2:00-3:20 p.m., Biology Room 23
Undergraduates: register for BIOL 4301 (Topics in Biology), Section 046, call # 12133
Grad students: register for BIOL 6301 (Advanced Topics in Biology), Section 046, call # 12264
Dr. Nancy E. McIntyre
Department of Biological Sciences
420A Biology Bldg.
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX 79409-3131
(806) 742-4113 ext. 280
nancy.mcintyre@ttu.edu
Office hours: Tu 11:00-noon or by appointment
Claret cup cactus from Big Bend Nat'l Park, TX
In this course, we will examine the forces that create deserts and grasslands throughout the world, the adaptations exhibited by plants and animals living in arid and semi-arid regions, and human influences on these fascinating and unique landscapes. A field trip over Spring Break is tentatively planned.
Expected learning outcomes: Upon satisfactory completion of this course, students should have an understanding of the geophysical factors that create and maintain deserts and grasslands, be aware of some of the biological and cultural adaptations that allow survival in arid and semi-arid areas, be able to distinguish among the various deserts and grasslands of the world, and have a greater appreciation of the complexity and beauty of these inspiring and forbidding landscapes.
Methods for assessing learning outcomes: (1) tests, (2) student participation in class discussions, (3) student questions posed in and outside class, (4) projects, (5) cumulative final exam.
Syllabus
Course outline:
|
Date |
Day |
Topic |
|
12 Jan. |
Th |
What are arid and semi-arid lands, and why should we study them? |
|
17 Jan. |
Tu |
Forces that create arid and semi-arid lands: global factors |
|
19 Jan. |
Th |
Forces that create arid and semi-arid lands: fire and grazing |
|
24 Jan. |
Tu |
Survey of deserts of the world |
|
26 Jan. |
Th |
Survey of North American deserts |
|
31 Jan. |
Tu |
Survey of grasslands of the world |
|
2 Feb. |
Th |
Survey of North American grasslands |
|
7 Feb. |
Tu |
Where are we? The Llano Estacado |
|
9 Feb. |
Th |
Exam I |
|
14 Feb. |
Tu |
Arid and semi-arid soils and topography |
|
16 Feb. |
Th |
Sand dunes |
|
21 Feb. |
Tu |
Playas and other oases |
|
23 Feb. |
Th |
Plant adaptations: photosynthesis |
|
28 Feb. |
Tu |
Plant adaptations: reproduction |
|
2 Mar. |
Th |
Animal adaptations: thermal balance |
|
7 Mar. |
Tu |
Animal adaptations: water budget |
|
9 Mar. |
Th |
Exam II |
|
14 Mar. |
Tu |
Spring Break - field trip |
|
16 Mar. |
Th |
Spring Break - field trip |
|
21 Mar. |
Tu |
Human adaptations: physical adaptations |
|
23 Mar. |
Th |
Human adaptations: cultural adaptations |
|
28 Mar. |
Tu |
No class (take-home assignment) |
|
31 Mar. |
Th |
No class (take-home assignment) |
|
4 Apr. |
Tu |
The role of arid and semi-arid lands in shaping a nation |
|
6 Apr. |
Th |
Water rights and wars |
|
11 Apr. |
Tu |
Agriculture and the Conservation Reserve Program |
|
13 Apr. |
Th |
Exam III |
|
18 Apr. |
Tu |
Desertification |
|
20 Apr. |
Th |
Invasive species |
|
25 Apr. |
Tu |
Arid and semi-arid land conservation: parks and preserves |
|
27 Apr. |
Th |
The Buffalo Commons |
|
2 May |
Tu |
Final thoughts, course evaluations |
|
6 May |
Saturday |
FINAL EXAM: 4:30-7:00 p.m. |
Grading:
20% on exam I
20% on exam
II
20% on exam III
20% on cumulative final exam
20% on 3 projects
About assignments: Because there is no assigned textbook, class attendance and note-taking are crucial for success. Students will be given take-home assignments that will consist of readings and/or questions to answer; you may expect test questions over these assignments. Each student will develop and present at 3 projects on topics assigned by Dr. McIntyre; details to be given in class. Graduate students will have slightly different tests that will require them to display a more sophisticated understanding of material.
Students with disabilities: Any student who, because of a disabling condition, may need special arrangements in order to meet course requirements must notify Dr. McIntyre during the first week of class so that accommodations can be made. Students should present appropriate verification from AccessTech at that time.
Please note: All electronic devices must be turned off and newspapers put away during class time.
Last updated: 24 April 2006