Download ANTH 2101 - Physical Anthropology - Lab

Midland College
Syllabus
ANTH 2101
Physical Anthropology Lab (1-0)
2013-2015
Course Description:
Students will be able to demonstrate through discussion and writing knowledge of basic
terminology, concepts, theories, and research methods used by physical
anthropologists in the biological study of culture; demonstrate though discussion and
writing the emergence of evolutionary theory; demonstrate through discussion and
writing knowledge of the evolutionary process and development of early hominines and
the genus Homo; critically appraise scientific theories regarding humankind’s cultural
development in regard to the evolutionary process; and critically appraise issues of
human variations and adaptation.
Student Learning Outcomes:
• To gain an understanding of the field of physical anthropology through lab
exercises
• To accurately identify the bones of the human skeleton
• To become familiar with the basic terminology and research methods used by
physical anthropologists in the bio-cultural study of humankind through lab
exercises
• Evaluate genetic data regarding genotypic and phenotypic frequencies of the
genus Homo through lab exercises
• Analyze and recognize skeletal types of early hominines and the genus Homo
• Demonstrate, through completion of lab exercises, knowledge of the evolutionary
process and development of early hominines and the genus Homo
Course Goals/Objectives:
Critical thinking skills: Anthropological lab concepts, models, and research methods
within the anthropological discipline are learned and analyzed through hands on
exercises. This is accomplished through class discussion, panel presentations, written
assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Communication skills: Students are required to successfully participate and are
evaluated on one or more of the following at the discretion of the instructor:
• Class discussion
• Group lab projects with lab partners
• Panel presentations
• Creation of power point presentations regarding cultures
1
•
•
Quizzes in which they identify a progression of hominid skulls and bones
Interpretation of graphs, tables, models, diagrams, and physical characteristics of
hominines.
Students are evaluated on their performance on these activities.
Empirical & Quantitative skills: Analysis of the material/physical remains of both prehuman and human cultures are woven throughout the lab manual exercises and are
integrated into virtually every facet of the course, including class discussions, group
panel presentations, written assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Social Responsibility: This course includes concepts and methods used by biophysical anthropologists such as NAGPRA laws, scientific and ethical methods
employed at physical anthropology sites, and proper handling of skeletal remains and
artifacts. These concepts are included in assignments and student knowledge of them
is evaluated in exams, class discussions, and panel presentations. Students will
observe, research, or participate in a voluntary organization to gain a better
understanding of social responsibility of physical anthropologists.
Student Contributions and Class Policies:
Involvement with the material is essential - students must read, take notes, ask
questions. Students must come to class. Students are expected to be able to read,
write, and understand Standard English; the course is based on extensive amounts of
material given in lecture, audio visual aids, and assigned readings. A schedule of
classroom events will be given to each student at the beginning of the semester. It is the
student’s responsibility to know exam dates, and when other assignments are due. It is
also the responsibility of the student to know their own progress in the course.
If a student is absent when exams or assignments are returned, the student is still
responsible for having the work done on time or making up the exam . If the student
takes the initiative the instructor will advise them on their progress in the course.
Instructors do not automatically drop students with a “W,” this must be accomplished
officially by the student.
Evaluation of Students/Grading
Final grades will be determined according to the following criteria:

A minimum of three hour, 20 minutes exams will be given. Each test will
consist of questions, based on lab exercises and lectures. A variety of testing
methods ranging from bone/remains identification, to a combination of
multiple choice and essay, listing, expanded true false, or short answer will be
used.
2

Students will present lab findings, articles and electronic presentations of
anthropological readings in assigned panels.

The grading system used in the class will be discussed thoroughly during the
first week of the class. A grade of “A” is universally considered excellent work
or mastery of the subject; “B” is above average work; “C” is average: “D” is
below average; and “F” is a failure to perform adequately on assigned task.

These letter grades are determined in a myriad of methods, and they can be
objective or subjective. The instructor reserves the right to determine when
each level has been achieved. Make up exams will be given at the instructor’s
discretion. There is a testing center which may be used, some instructors
have three scheduled dates for make-up exams and those dates will be
stated in the schedule. Other instructors prefer to give make up exams during
their office hours. It is the student’s responsibility to know their individual
instructor’s choice of make-up exam dates.
Class schedule:Each instructor will make out a Class schedule. The schedule should
include a outline of topics for the course (Which may be subject to change).
There are sixteen weeks of instruction, including finals, which can be divided into three r
major exams. Each exam will cover approximately four to six chapters of the textbook.
Each instructor must use their own judgment regarding which topics in each chapter are
covered in detail.
Students with Disabilities
Midland College provides services for students with disabilities through Student
Services. In order to receive accommodations, students must place documentation on
file with the Counselor/Disability Specialist. Students with disabilities should notify
Midland College prior to the beginning of each semester. Student Services will provide
each student with a letter outlining any reasonable accommodations. The student must
present the letter to the instructor at the beginning of the semester.
Students Responsibilities
In the event that the student chooses to drop the class, it is the student’s
responsibility to “drop” officially by the designated date (available in the college
catalog). The instructor will not automatically drop students who do not attend class
and/or turn in assignments. The state legislature enacted a law restricting the number
of classes that students may drop to six throughout their entire academic career.
Consult the Midland College counselors for additional information.
Division Information
Division Dean: – MHAB 176
3
Division secretaries: Adelle Dowling and Norma Duran – MHAB 176
Division phone: 432-685-6829 or 685-6830
4