This course provides students with a broad background in the principles of ecology. It covers ecology at different levels of organization, including behavioral, physiological, evolutionary, population & community, and ecosystem ecology (and some other specialized topics).

Some materials we cover in the course are not in the textbook. Students are responsible for all the materials covered in class --- attendance is essential for a satisfactory completion of the course.

Although we do not take attendance, class participation, including attendance, will affect bonus points. By asking questions and expressing ideas in class, you may gain bonus points. Poor attendance (absence and tardiness) as well as poor participation (e.g., sleeping, chatting, playing with a computer in class) would reduce bonus points.

Unannounced quizzes may be given. Quizzes and assignments (if any are given) are for bonus points. Because of this, even if you miss a quiz with a legitimate reason, no make-up quiz will be given.

We do not curve exam scores.

No matter how good your quizzes, assignments, and participation are, the maximum possible bonus point is 10%.

If any questions, including potential grading errors, arise for your grade on an exam, an assignment or a quiz, submit a written request with your rationale for a regrade. Requests must be made within one week of the return of a graded material, otherwise the grade is final.

If your grade based on the three exams is less than 60%, the maximum obtainable grade (with bonus points) is 60% (C-) no matter how good your quizzes, assignments, and participation are.

The schedule (described in the content section of this website) is subject to change throughout the semester.