ANTH 215 - Human Evolution and Archaeology

(NSND, GEEL, GCP) (G and R only)

An introduction to the theories and evidence concerning human’s biological evolution and archaeology worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the genetic and adaptive evidence for human variation, the fossil evidence for human evolution, primatology, domestication, state societies, and archaeological methods and techniques. Assessment Level(s): ENGL 101/ENGL 011, MATH 050. Three hours each week.

3 semester hours

May not be taken concurrently with MATH 017 or MATH 020 or MATH 030 or MATH 045 without appropriate Math assessment score.

Course Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

Comprehend the scientific techniques and methods of archaeology and compile diverse data from archaeological research.
Describe the major features of non-human primate behavior and apply these to the evolution of human ancestors.
Distinguish rival positions in the interpretation of the fossil evidence for human evolution.
Distinguish the features of primate behavior through observation and generate explanations of these behaviors.
Explain human variation showing the adaptiveness of various physical differences, as well as the non-biological base of the “race” concept.
Explain the domestication of plants and animals, urbanization, and the development of civilization with emphasis on people and cultures in the Americas.
Explain the scientific theory of evolution and describe the underpinning mechanisms of that theory.

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