Publications:
Schlessman, M.A. In press. Investigating evolution with living plants. American Biology Teacher.
These are the courses I usually teach:
Biol 151 - Evolution of Biological Diversity. The diversity of life on this planet is the result of genetic, ecological, and evolutionary processes. This course examines these processes through detailed consideration of gene transmission and variation, the mechanisms and consequences of evolution, and ecological interactions. In the laboratory, exercises include studies in field ecology and experiments in genetics and evolution. Emphasis on experimental design, data collection and analysis, and use of the scientific literature. The department. Three 50-minute periods and one four hour lab per week.
Biol 208 - Plant Structure and Diversity. A study of the origins and diversification of plants. Problems to be analyzed may include mechanical support, internal transport, mechanical and biochemical defenses, life-histories, reproductive strategies, and modes of speciation. Laboratories will also include comparative study of the divisions of plants and identification of locally common species and families in the field. Mr. Pregnall, Ms Ronsheim, or Mr. Schlessman. Three 50-minute periods and one four hour lab per week.
Biol 350 - Evolutionary Biology. Study of the history of evolutionary thought, mechanisms of evolutionary change, and controversies in the study of evolution. Topics include the origin and maintenance of genetic variability, natural selection, adaptation, origin of species, macroevolution, co-evolution, and human evolution. Mr. Long, Ms Ronsheim, or Mr. Schlessman. Two 75-minute periods and one four hour lab per week.
Prerequisites: 238 and 208, 226, or 241; or permission of the instructor.
AMCL 286 - Ethnobotany of Native North America. An investigation of the uses of plants in native cultures of North America, emphasizing those plants used for food, clothing, medicine, and religious activities. Students visit local historical and archaeological sites and museums, identify and collect local plants, and process those plants according to native American methods. Cross-listed in Anthropology and Biology. Ms L. Johnson and Mr. Schlessman. Special permission. This course will be offered fall '97.