OBJECTIVE: This is a foundation course for intermediate-level biology majors. The first third of the course explores biodiversity and provides a phylogenetic context for the evolution of life. We then synthesize a suite of organismal concepts, including evolution, population-community-ecosystem ecology, behavior, biodiversity, and conservation. Our Discussion periods are focused on providing an opportunity to learn and (more importantly) to practice several practical skills that prepare you for upper-division courses: 1. How to read, discuss and critique primary literature 2. How to write a scientific paper 3. How to visualize, analyse and interpret biological data. 4. How to present data in oral and poster format