2024-2025 Pierce College Catalog 
    
    Jul 11, 2024  
2024-2025 Pierce College Catalog
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ANTH& 205 Biological Anthropology (5 credits)



Distribution Area Fulfilled Natural Sciences; General Transfer Elective
Formerly ANTHR 210-CCN

Course Description
We examine human biological variation taking into account the complex interaction of biology, physiology, environment, and culture. Major topics include evolution, genetics, non-human primates, the hominin fossil record, and modern human variation.

Course Content
A. History of evolutionary thought
B. Primate classification and taxonomy
C. Processes and mechanisms of human evolution
D. Basic principles of genetics
E. Comparative primate biology and behavior
F. Human biological diversity
G. Survey of the evolutionary record
H. Survey of human paleontology and palaeoanthropology

Student Outcomes
1. Define evolution from a scientific perspective.

2. Describe the historic contributions made by scientists in the understanding of evolutionary theory (e.g., Linnaeus, Lyell, Malthus, Lamarck, Darwin).

3. Describe primate classification and taxonomy.

4. Explain and apply the principles of genetic inheritance.

5. Analyze population changes in relation to the primary forces of evolution.

6. Analyze human biological variation using evolutionary theory.

7. Identify and explain the significance of morphological changes in the paleontological record.

8. Critically evaluate the concept of race from an anthropological perspective.

Degree Outcomes
STEM: Graduates use the scientific method to analyze natural phenomena and acquire skills to evaluate authenticity of data/information relative to the natural world.

Critical, Creative, and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.

Lecture Contact Hours 50
Lab Contact Hours 0
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 50

Potential Methods
A. Examinations
B. Quizzes
C. Individual written assignments / essays
D. Individual or group work in class
E. Research assignments
F. Class presentation
G. Large and small group discussions
H. Group assignments



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