Course Modules
The course is divided into ten lesson modules. Each module has a list of reading assignments, a homework project, a discussion topic, and (except for Module #1) a laboratory activity. Items with asterisks (*) are required. Note that homeworks are marked with asterisks, but are still subject to the homework policy listed in the syllabus.
For dates to guide you through the modules during the semester, see the schedule for learning modules.
Module 1 - Orientation
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Read “Syllabus” *
- Read “Collection Instructions” *
- Post to Discussion Board - Personal Introduction *
- Submit Homework #1 - It’s Greek To Me *
- Check Out Collecting Equipment *
- Arrange for Test proctor, if necessary
Module 2 - Importance of Insects
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “A Class of Distinction” *
- Read “Impact of Insects” *
- Read “Cultural Entomology” *
- Read “Reasons for Success” *
- Post to Discussion Board - Insect Extinction *
- Submit Homework #2 – Bugs in the News *
- Lab #1 – Meadow Field Trip *
Module 3 - Systematics and Taxonomy
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “Evolution and Diversity” *
- Read “Class Insecta” *
- Post to Discussion Board – The Paleoptera *
- Submit Homework #3 – Common Names *
- Lab #2 – Spot ID for Orders - Audio Slide Show *
- Review for Quiz #1: covers Lessons 2 & 3 *
Module 4 – External Anatomy
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “The Exoskeleton” *
- Post to Discussion Board – Jelly Sandwich Analogy *
- Read “The Insect’s Head” and “Antennae” *
- Read “The Thorax”, “Legs”, “Wings”, and “The Abdomen” *
- Lab #3 – External Anatomy *
- Submit Homework – External Cross-Sections*
Module 5 – Growth & Development
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “Egg Structure” *
- Read “Embryogenesis” *
- Read “Morphogenesis” *
- Submit Homework – Transformers Matching *
- Post to Discussion Board – Adults and Immatures *
- Lab #4 – Forest Field Trip *
- Review for Quiz #2 : covers Lessons 4 & 5 *
Module 6 – Internal Anatomy & Physiology
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “The Endocrine System” *
- Read “Hormonal Control of Molting and Metamorphosis ” *
- Read “Circulatory System” *
- Read “Respiratory System” *
- Read “Respiration in Aquatic Insects” *
- Read “Digestive and Excretory Systems” *
- Read “Insect Nutrition” *
- Read “Reproductive System” *
- Submit Homework–Internal Cross-Sections *
- Post to Discussion Board–Comparative Physiology *
- Lab #5 – Internal Anatomy *
- Review for Exam I: covers Modules 2-6 *
Module 7 – Insect Behavior
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “The Nervous System” *
- Read “Insect Senses” *
- Read “Color Vision” *
- Post to Discussion Board – Entrainment Experiment *
- Read “Elements of Behavior” *
- Read “Periodic Behavior” *
- Submit Homework – Perception *
- Read “Communication” *
- Read “Social Insects ” *
- Lab #6 – Aquatic Field Trip *
- Review for Lab Practical I: covers Spot ID to Order, External Anatomy, and Internal Anatomy *
Module 8 – Insect Ecology
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “Trophic Levels” *
- Read “Survival Strategies” *
- Read “Insect Defenses” *
- Read “Life Tables” *
- Read “Physiological Time” *
- Submit Homework – Practice Problems *
- Post to Discussion Board – Diversity & Stability *
- Lab #7 – Immatures *
- Review for Quiz 3: covers Module 7 *
Module 9 – Insects as Pests
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “Insects as Pests” *
- Read “Economic Injury Level” *
- Submit Homework – Letter to the Editor *
- Post to Discussion Board – Defining Pests *
- Lab #8 – Hemimetabola *
- Review for Exam II: covers Modules 7-9 *
Module 10 – Control Tactics
- View Audio Slide Show *
- Print Topical Outline and Learning Objectives (PDF)
- Read “Pest Control Tactics” *
- Read “Toxicity” *
- Read “Labels and Rates” *
- Read “Managing Resistance” *
- Submit Homework – Crossword Puzzle *
- Post to Discussion Board – Homeowner's Dilemma *
- Lab #9 – Holometabola *
- Review for Quiz 4: covers Modules 9 and 10 *
