In recent decades, our society has generated renewed interests in plants for our needs to have a balanced diet, a more natural approach to medicine, a clean environment, and an overall healthy lifestyle. Plants are integral components of formulas to meet these needs. In this course, students will learn basic botany, human use of plants as food and medicine, and the important relationship between environment and human health. Active participation by students in class discussion and on field trips is required after they read materials in a textbook, research articles, and investigate online sources outside the classroom. A self-designed course project stimulates independent and active thinking, and helps students learn in a relaxed environment at self-controlled pace.

Course Requirements:

There are four mini-exams, one at the end of each section (see the syllabus; 20% for the first one and 10% for each of the remaining three sections, with a total of 50% for four exams). In addition, students need to carry out one course project (30%). There are also pop quizzes (20%).

Intended Audience:

Students majoring in biology, general biology, cellular and molecular biology, ecology and evolutionary biology, neuroscience, microbiology, pre-health, environmental studies, or anthropology

Class Format:

There will be two meetings per week. All meetings will consist of one hour lecture and half hour discussion, except field trips.