Apr 20, 2024  
2017-2018 Course Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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ANTH 1022 - Introduction to Physical Anthropology: Human Origins

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3Lab None
Course Description: This course is an introduction to physical anthropology through the study of human origins. This includes a detailed introduction to evolutionary theory and related topics, such as Mendelian and population genetics, taxonomy, and primate behavior and ecology. Central to the course is the human and non-human primate fossil evidence, and the evolutionary origins of modern Homo sapiens. Students will attend lectures, have assigned readings, and do hands-on work with fossil replicas during the semester. This course is intended for new students in anthropology.
MnTC Goals
3 Natural Science, 10 People/Environment

Prerequisite(s): Assessment score placement in RDNG 1000  or completion of RDNG 0900  or RDNG 0950  with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: None

Major Content
  1. Introduction to anthropology.
  2. Mendelian and population genetics.
  3. The evolution of evolutionary theory.
  4. The primate order.
  5. Primate ecology and behavior.
  6. Primate evolution.
  7. The human fossil record.
  8. Human behavior and ecology.
  9. The evolution of modern humans.
  10. The evolution of human behavior.
  11. Hands-on fossil analysis

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course students will be able to:

  1. explain evolutionary theory.
  2. demonstrate a scientific understanding of primate behavior and ecology.
  3. demonstrate their understanding of the theoretical advancements of neodarwinism.
  4. explain the fossil record of primates and humans.
  5. apply critical thinking skills to the claims of anti-evolutionists.
  6. explain the facts of human evolution.
  7. perform fossil identification through lab-like class exercises.


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