Spring Flora (415-0-1)
Instructors
Katherine Elizabeth Wenzell
Meeting Info
Frances Searle Building 3220: Mon 10:00AM - 10:50AM
Overview of class
Spring Flora merges aspects of plant evolution and identification (with an emphasis on learning about the local flora) with plant ecology (with an emphasis on ecological interactions and adaptations). This course takes a field-based approach to learn the process of identifying major components of the local flora. Understanding the vegetative and reproductive structures of plants and the use of this knowledge to identify plants with taxonomic keys will be emphasized. Ecological interactions, adaptations, and related conservation issues will also be discussed. The lecture portion of the course will take place synchronously on NU campus (in Evanston) on Monday. The field component will be offered on Wednesday, outdoors on campus, at Chicago Botanic Garden (Glencoe, IL) or in nearby natural areas. Transportation can be arranged for those who need it.
Teaching Method
Synchronous, remote lecture and outdoor field study.
Evaluation Method
Weekly activities, quizzes, independent project.
Class Materials (Required)
10x to 20x Magnification Loupe, like ones shown here: http://www.amazon.com/Jewelers-Loupe-EYE-MAGNIFYING-GLASS/dp/B008LTIAXQ/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1422636963&sr=8-7&keywords=loupe+10x
http://www.amazon.com/Folding-Magnifier-Magnifying-Glass-Jewelry/dp/B008BXQYAS/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1422636963&sr=8-8&keywords=loupe+10xhttp://www.amazon.com/SE-Loupe-Set-Dual-10x/dp/B001C9LG60/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1422636963&sr=8-5&keywords=loupe+10x http://www.amazon.com/SE-Triplet-Professional-Loupes-Black/dp/B000P9MI7O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1422636942&sr=8-2&keywords=loupe+10x
http://www.amazon.com/SE-Loupe-Triplet-Illuminated-21mm/dp/B002E0MU7U/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1422636963&sr=8-4&keywords=loupe+10x
Plant Dissection kit, similar to one shown here: https://www.forestry-suppliers.com/product_pages/products.php?mi=81101&itemnum=53872&redir=Y
Class Materials (Suggested)
Macro lens for your phone to take close ups of plant parts
For Spring Flora, there will be a variety of resources made available to students. In addition, a field identification guide is recommended for the fieldwork component of the class. There are a variety of options out there (some options are listed below), so if you already have one of these (or something similar) you can use that. Otherwise, it is suggested that you purchase one. They won't be needed before the 3rd week of class, so feel free to discuss with the instructor about which book to choose to best meet your needs. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Wisconsin Flora by Steve Chadde
Wildflowers of Wisconsin by Merel R. Black and Emmet J. Judziewicz
Wisconsin Flora Field Guide by Steve Chadde
Vascular Flora of Illinois by Robert Mohlenbrock
Associated Classes
LAB - TBA: Wed 10:00AM - 12:50PM