RICEx: AP® Biology - Part 3: Evolution and Diversity

Course Description

Welcome to AP Biology Part 3: Evolution and Diversity of Life, an exciting and comprehensive course designed to prepare you for the AP Biology exam. This course is the third installment in our AP Biology series, focusing on the fundamental concept that evolution drives the diversity and unity of life on Earth.

As an aspiring AP Biology student, you'll dive deep into the fascinating world of evolutionary biology, exploring how genetic changes in populations occur over time and how these changes lead to the incredible diversity of life we see around us. This course is not just about memorizing facts; it's about understanding complex biological systems and their interactions, which is crucial for success on the AP exam.

What Students Will Learn

A thorough understanding of evolution and its role in shaping life on Earth
How genetic changes in populations drive evolutionary processes
The interconnectedness of biological systems
Critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for the AP Biology exam
How to approach and solve AP-style multiple choice and free response questions
Inquiry-based lab investigation techniques
The ability to discuss and debate complex biological concepts

Prerequisites

While there are no specific prerequisites for this course, a basic understanding of biology and a strong interest in life sciences will be beneficial. Students should be prepared for rigorous academic content and be willing to engage in critical thinking and analysis.

Course Content

The theory of evolution and its mechanisms
Genetic drift and gene flow in populations
Natural selection and adaptation
Speciation and the formation of new species
Phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary trees
Evidence for evolution from various scientific disciplines
The impact of evolution on biodiversity
Ecological interactions and their role in evolution
AP exam strategies and question types
Hands-on lab investigations related to evolutionary concepts

Who This Course Is For

This course is ideal for:

High school students preparing for the AP Biology exam
College students looking to strengthen their understanding of evolutionary biology
Anyone interested in gaining a deeper knowledge of how life on Earth has evolved and diversified

Real-World Applications

The skills and knowledge gained from this course extend far beyond the AP exam. Students will develop:

Critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to various scientific fields
A deeper understanding of the natural world and our place in it
The ability to evaluate scientific claims and evidence
Problem-solving skills that can be applied to real-world biological issues
A foundation for further studies in biology, ecology, and related fields
The capacity to engage in informed discussions about evolution and biodiversity

By mastering the concepts in this course, students will be well-prepared not only for the AP Biology exam but also for future academic and career pursuits in biology, environmental science, medicine, and other related fields.