What This Document Is
This is a detailed academic syllabus for EPSC 210A: Epic of Evolution, offered at Washington University in St. Louis. It focuses specifically on the fascinating and complex topic of early animal evolution – tracing the origins of animal life and the development of key characteristics that define the animal kingdom. The syllabus outlines the core concepts and chronological periods explored within the course, setting the stage for a deep dive into paleontological and genomic evidence.
Why This Document Matters
This syllabus is essential for any student enrolled in, or considering enrolling in, EPSC 210A. It provides a comprehensive overview of the course’s scope, helping you understand the major themes and the order in which they will be addressed. It’s particularly valuable for prospective students wanting to gauge the course’s difficulty and relevance to their academic interests. Current students will find it a crucial reference point for staying organized and understanding the overall structure of the learning journey. Understanding the syllabus *before* beginning the course will maximize your learning potential.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This syllabus serves as a roadmap; it doesn’t contain the detailed explanations, research findings, or specific analyses that form the core of the course material. It won’t provide answers to complex evolutionary questions, nor will it offer interpretations of fossil evidence. It’s a high-level overview, designed to orient you to the subject matter, not to teach it directly. Access to the full course materials is required for a complete understanding of the topics covered.
What This Document Provides
* An overview of key periods in early animal evolution (e.g., Cambrian, Ediacaran, Cryogenian).
* Identification of defining characteristics used to classify animals, including body plans and nervous systems.
* Discussion of significant fossil sites and the types of fossils discovered there.
* An introduction to the “Cambrian Explosion” and its implications for understanding animal diversification.
* Exploration of the roles of organisms like sponges, cnidarians, and choanoflagellates in the evolutionary narrative.
* A preview of the genetic evidence used to reconstruct early animal evolutionary relationships.
* Insight into the concept of animal bauplans and the genes that govern their development.