Grading

The final grade is based on a total of 1000 points, split roughly evenly between the lecture and the lab. Letter grades follow the usual scale: A = 1000-930, A- = 929-900, B+ = 899-870, B = 869-830, B- = 829-800, C+ = 799-770, C = 769-730, C- = 729-700, D+ = 699-670, D = 669-630, D- = 629-600, F<600.

component points
insect collection (description) 250
failure to turn in early insect collection (description) -50
lecture exam I 100
lecture exam II 100
lab practicals (50 points each, n=6) 300
presentation 50
participation 50
final exam 150
total 1000

Exams

Lecture exams are typically mixed in terms of style, with sections for short answer, multiple choice, matching, essay, etc. The final exam is cumulative, with an emphasis on material covered since exam II.

Lab Practicals

A lab practical generally consists of ~20 specimens that a student must identify by sight. Extra resources are not allowed.

Presentations

Each student will be required to give a short presentation and to distribute information on his/her topic (e.g., a handout). More information will be provided during lecture 1.

Participation

Each student is expected to contribute regularly to ongoing discussions and class exercises. More information will be provided during lecture 1.

Statement on Cheating

Cheating will not be tolerated. Students should read and abide by the NCSU Code of Student Conduct. A student that feels tempted to cheat is encouraged to contact either or both instructors before he/she engages in any activities that could be classified as dishonest.