ENY 3004 Course Syllabus

Course Description

ENY 3004 General Entomology (4 credit hours). Prerequisites: a course in general biology; a course in some aspect of invertebrate zoology is also strongly recommended. An introduction to insect classification, biology and morphology. This course provides the necessary background for advanced courses in Entomology and Structural Pest Control. Laboratory work consists of learning major anatomical structure of insects, and training in insect identification, collection, and curation.

Overview of the Course

Insects are by far the most diverse and (with the exception of bacteria) are the most numerous organisms on Earth. They have profound, though often unnoticed, effects on our own lives. In this course students will learn basics of insect structure and function, and the importance of insects in both natural and man-made ecosystems. Emphasis is placed on the various orders and major families of insects and their varied solutions to evolutionary problems.

Student Objectives

1. At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to:
2. Understand and discuss basic concepts and current topics in entomology.
3. Recognize on sight all orders of insects present in Florida.
4. Identify major insect families present in Florida.
5. Be able to use keys and other identification aids.

Course Requirements

• Students are expected to attend class and participate fully in all course activities. Students are expected to comply with all University, College, and Division policies and codes.
• Honor Code: Students are required to comply with the University Honor Code.
• Tardiness and Class Participation: Any student entering the class late will be considered absent and asked to leave.
• Exams: Two (2) midterm and one final exam will be given on both lecture and laboratory. Exact dates will be announced after the beginning of the course. All exams will be comprehensive, although material presented since the previous exam will be emphasized. Unannounced quizzes may occur at any time.
• Lab hours: Lab will be opened on class evenings until scheduled closing time, or earlier if there are no students staying late. Once closed for the night the building will not be re-opened. The lab can also be made available by arrangement.

Grades:

• Lecture: 50%
• Lab: 25%
• Project: 25%

Project

Students will be expected to complete an insect collection which will contribute 25% to the final grade.