Vertebrate Morphology
ZOO 4377
| Spring Semester 2002 | Class times: M W 1230-1345 | Class room: OE 100
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| Instructor: K. Condon
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| Office Hours (OE 244): | M W | 1400-1630
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| F | 0900-1200
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| | or by appointment (x2604 or condon@fiu.edu)
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| Text: | Kardong, K.V. (2002) Vertebrates. Comparative Anatomy, Function, Evolution. (3rd ed.)
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- About the course. Vertebrate Morphology (ZOO 4377) replaces ZOO 2713C as the upper
division course in comparative vertebrate anatomy. Morphology is the study of the relationship between form
(i.e., structure) and function, and thus emphasizes the functional aspects of comparative anatomy.
A systemic approach is used and all higher order vertebrate groups (e.g., "fish", amphibians, sauropsids, synapsids, etc.)
are examined. In this particular course the functional morphology of the integumental, musculoskeletal and nervous
systems are emphasized. It is highly recommended that the lab (ZOO 4377L) be taken with the lecture course.
In contrast to the lecture course, all major organs systems (integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous,
circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and urogenital) are examined in lab using representative vertebrate species.
Examinations: There will be three exams each worth 100 points. The final exam will be comprehensive
but will emphasize material covered since the second exam.
| | Grade Distribution
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| | A | = | >270 points
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| | B+ | = | 260-269 points
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| | B | = | 240-259 points
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| | C+ | = | 230-239 points
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| | C | = | 210-229 points
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| | D+ | = | 200-209 points
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| | D | = | 180-199 points
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| | F | = | <179 points
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- If the average at the end of the course is less than 225 points (75%) then a curve will be generated as follows:
- A > mean + 1.5 standard deviation (s.d.)
- B = (mean + 0.51 s.d.) - (mean + 1.5 sd)
- C = mean ( 0.5 s.d.
- D = (mean - 0.51 s.d.) - (mean - 1.5 s.d).
- F < mean -1.5 s.d.
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- Note with this curve, assuming a normal distribution, 86% of the class will receive a grade of B, C or D, i.e.,
it will be better not to curve. Plus grades (e.g., B+) will be assigned to the upper third of each range.
Optional Term Paper: 10 - 15 pages, double-spaced on any topic that deals with vertebrate morphology
and which interests you. See instructor for approval of topic and format (several options). Papers will be
evaluated as follows: Unsatisfactory (0 points); Satisfactory (points equal to half a grade); More than satisfactory
(points equal to a whole grade).
Make-up examinations: No make-up examinations will be given.
College of Arts and Sciences Policy on Incompletes: In order to obtain an incomplete grade the
majority of the work in the course must be completed; this means that for this course 2 of the 3 tests must have
been taken. In order to obtain an incomplete, an Assignment of Incomplete Grade Form must be filled out with the
instructor prior to the end of the semester. Work to complete the grade must be done within 30 days of the end of
the semester, otherwise a grade computed from completed work will be submitted.
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