The course is intended to provide an introduction to the biology and diversity of one of the most important, and certainly the most diverse, groups of eukaryotic organisms. The emphasis is on insects as organisms, especially evolutionary, ecological, and behavioral aspects. The course will also emphasize insect examples of general biological principles, especially in evolution, genetics and ecology.

The lectures will be devoted largely to general aspects of insect biology, including morphology, physiology, embryology, life cycles, behavior, ecology, and evolution. It is impossible to appreciate much of this material without a good familiarity with the diversity of insects, which is in itself one of the major reasons for studying entomology. Students will learn to read primary research articles on insect ecology, genetics, behavior and evolution. Class discussions will help students master important skills, such as interpreting figures and tables and critiquing experimental designs. Reading research papers will expose students to a variety of methods to address questions about insect biology. There will be several creative short writing assignments that take you out in nature to learn about the diversity of insects in Michigan. Grades will be based upon class participation, writing assignments, and exams.

Students will gain an appreciation of the rich opportunities for research that insects offer in every realm of biology, some knowledge of the fascinating diversity of insects, and an ability to go out, anywhere and at almost any time, and see the wonderful variety of life with which we share the world.