Required Texts: Prescott, Harley and Klein. Microbiology. 4th Ed. Reserve Books: Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology (in library
and in lab) Laboratory Conduct: Attendance at all laboratory sessions is required. Many lab exercises proceed over the course of two or three weeks and/or involve the use of perishable items which cannot be replaced. It might not be possible to make up the work if you are absent. Detailed procedures for lab conduct and safety will be discussed during the first lab period and reviewed periodically. Many of the microorganisms that we will be working with are potentially pathogenic and appropriate handling of these microbes is important for our personal health and safety. Bacterial Unknowns: In addition to the regularly scheduled lab activities, you will be given a microbial culture at the beginning of the semester. You will have almost the entire semester to try to identify this microbe at the Genus level. It should be challenging and fun to try to figure the identity of the unknown, but it may be frustrating at times. Have patience. You will be given enough time, information and help during scheduled labs, and any additional time you wish, to track down the identity of your unknown. Students will have to take responsibility for maintaining the culture of the unknown and subculturing it every 2 or 3 weeks. Independent Investigations in Microbiology: In addition to the 'unknown' which you will be given, groups of students will embark on independent investigations of their own choosing. Results will be presented in poster format along with prepared slides, plates and samples. Detailed directions and resources will be provided in a separate handout. Grading: Final grades will be based on 3 in-class exams (45%), a final exam (15%), weekly lab work including the independent investigation (5%), lab reports and a lab final/practical (30%) and a short environmental or clinical case study (5%).
Last update 2/2000 |