Module 31

McMaster University
Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology

Systematics of the Flowering Plants

Dr. James S. Pringle                        
Royal Botanical Gardens                  Phone: 905-527-1158 Ext. 236
Box 399                                          Fax:     905-577-0375
Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3H8

Queen's University Biological Station (QUBS)
 (on Lake Opinicon, near Chaffey's Locks, 50 km north of Kingston, ON).

$475.00 total includes room and board at QUBS

Cost breakdown:
$250.00 deposit paid to student’s home University plus
$225.00 certified cheque payable to “McMaster University”
by June 4, 2010, sent to Kathy  McIntosh, Biology, McMaster University,
1280 Main St. W., Hamilton, L8S 4K1

In addition to the course fee shown, the student is responsible for tuition at the home university, and for travel between home city and the QUBS.

A university course in general biology

A basic introduction to systematic botany of the flowering plants, including floral morphology and associated vocabulary; theories of evolutionary trends within the angiosperms; major plant families; and taxonomic ranks and the principles of botanical nomenclature.  Field and laboratory sessions will concentrate on recognition of distinctive families and the development of plant identification skills, including introductions to the identification of grasses and Asteraceae.

Minimum 5, maximum 12

20% of the grade will be based on a demonstration of plant identification skills, in a laboratory setting, and familiarity with distinctive plant families prominently represented in the Ontario flora.
50% of the grade will be determined by an examination, including the writing of short answers plus essays.  Arrangements will be offered whereby students can have time for independent study prior to the examination. 
30% will be determined by a library essay project, which will be assigned at the end of the formal sessions.
Library essay project to be submitted to instructor by
September 24, 2010.