Elementary instruction in plant biology
The general course objectives are to provide the student knowledge of the fundamental concepts of structure and function of forest ecosystems and an understanding of how this knowledge can be applied to management of forest resources. The student should achieve knowledge and understanding of current topics such as global change, ecosystem management, intensive forestry, deforestation, clearcutting, wild land fire, old-growth forests, forest decline and biological diversity.
Information is presented in lectures that follow the order of topics in the text. Numerous examples are presented to demonstrate principles and concepts. Emphasis is placed on understanding concepts, extrapolating principles and synthesis, although knowledge of the parts is essential. Students are encouraged to pose questions, comment on topics and share experiences and knowledge.
Transportation fee is $22 to pay van rental for laboratory sessions.
Three examinations including the final and eight laboratory reports are required.
Lecture M-W AGH 014 10:30 - 11:20 am
Lab W AGH 014 2:30 - 5:20 pm
Grade achieved depends on demonstrated level of mastery and understanding of course content.
| Approx. Total Score Percent | |
| A - Superior, substantial mastery of course content | 85 to 100 |
| B - Good, excellent understanding of course content | 75 to 85 |
| C - Average, understands course content | 65 to 75 |
| D - Minimal, some increased knowledge | 55 to 65 |
| F - Failing, lack of effort, no change in knowledge | < 55 |
15% Exam 1 09/24/03 2:30 to 3:20
15% Exam 2 11/05/03 2:30 to 3:20
40% Lab reports
30% Final 12/10/03 10:00 to 11:50
Students are expected to come to the class prepared for the scheduled lecture topic or laboratory session. This includes reading the relevant chapters in the text and completing assignments. The student is expected to participate in class discussion and pose questions when there is need to elaborate or explain.
The student is responsible for all the course content delivered in lectures, laboratory sessions and the text.
Kimmins, J. P. 1987, Forest Ecology. Macmillan, New York. 531 pp., or Kimmins, J. P. 1997, Forest Ecology, Second Edition. Macmillan, New York. 596 pp.
Same as University policy
Week |
Dates |
Lecture Topic |
Lab |
Chapter |
| 1 | Aug. 18, 20 | Forest Ecology and Ecosystem Concept | 1 | 1,2,3 |
| 2 | 25, 27 | Energy Capture, Transfer and Storage in Ecosystems | 1 | 4 |
| 3 | Sept. 3 | Energy Capture, Transfer and Storage in Ecosystems | 1 | 4 |
| 4 | 8, 10 | Cycling of Nutrients in Ecosystems | 2 | 5 |
| 5 | 15, 17 | Cycling of Nutrients in Ecosystems | 2, 3 | 5 |
| 6 | 22, 24 | Genecology | 4 | 6 |
| 7 | Oct. 1 | The Tree |
No Lab |
Notes |
| 8 | 6, 8 | Solar Radiation, Temperature | 5 | 7, 8 |
| 9 | 13, 15 | Atmosphere, Soil, Water | 6 | 9, 10, 11 |
| 10 | 20, 22 | Fire | 3 | 12 |
| 11 | 27, 29 | Population Ecology | 6 | 13 |
| 12 | Nov. 3, 5 | Community Ecology | 7, 8 | 14 |
| 13 | 10, 12 | Community Ecology | 7 | 14 |
| 14 | 17, 19 | Disturbance and Succession | 3 | 15 |
| 15 | 24, 26 | Ecosystem Clarification | 8 | 16 |
| 16 | Dec. 1, 3 | Sustainable Development of Forests |
Week |
Dates |
Laboratory Topic |
Lab |
| 1 | Aug. 20 | Biomass distribution in the forest and prairie | 1 |
| 2 | 27 | Biomass distribution in the forest and prairie | 1 |
| 3 | Sept. 3 | Biomass distribution in the forest and prairie | 1 |
| 4 | 10 | Genetic variation in black walnut (Juglans nigra) | 2 |
| 5 | 17 | Genetic variation in black walnut (Juglans nigra), Tree seed germination, Presentation of data in figures | 3 |
| 6 | 24 | Variation in leaf morphology in response to light intensity | 4 |
| 7 | Oct. 1 | No Lab | |
| 8 | 8 | Measurement if solar radiation | 5 |
| 9 | 15 | Effect of drought on water relations of trees | 6 |
| 10 | 22 | Tree seed germination | 3 |
| 11 | 29 | Effect of drought on water relations of trees | 6 |
| 12 | Nov. 5 | Maximum size-density relation, Competitive exclusion principle | 7, 8 |
| 13 | 12 | Maximum size-density relation | 7 |
| 14 | 19 | Tree seed germination | 3 |
| 15 | 26 | Competitive exclusion principle | 8 |
| 16 | Dec. 3 | Sustainable Development of Forests |