Information
This course is an introduction to the systematics, anatomy, and physiology of the animal kingdom.
Participants will examine the structure and function of animal organ systems within the context of evolutionary adaptations. The course also explores animal behavior, habitats, ecological relationships, and classification, including the major theories and principles that govern animal life.
This is a content and NGSS pedagogy course with an emphasis on best practices for teaching zoological concepts in the classroom.
Please note that this is a college level course. Participants are expected to understand the material at a deeper level than what is typically taught in a secondary classroom.
This course incorporates three dimensional pedagogy using the Utah SEEd Standards, including science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas. While the course integrates these elements, it does not provide a comprehensive overview of three dimensional pedagogy. Lesson plan development is a required component, with a continued emphasis on effective instructional practices. The estimated time commitment is 6 to 8 hours per week.
Note that this course does not fulfill the separate requirement for a Three Dimensional Science and Engineering Pedagogical Knowledge course.
This is a 12 week course that follows a fixed schedule. Participants must complete work within the assigned weekly modules. Modules are not available in advance, and the course is not self paced.
Endorsement Alignment
This online endorsement course meets Utah State Science Endorsement requirements for:
- Biological Science I: Zoology
Course Credit
Upon successful completion, participants will receive 3.0 credits from Southern Utah University.
Important Course Information
The cost for this course includes a $50 refundable registration fee for UtSTA members who are contracted teachers and earn a final grade of 74% or higher.
Participants who are not contracted Utah public school educators will be charged a nonrefundable $700 course fee.
All participants must also register for 3 university credits through Southern Utah University for an additional fee of $69. Instructions will be provided. This fee is refundable for contracted teachers who earn at least 74%. It is nonrefundable for non contracted participants.
Upon successful completion of the course with a grade of 74% or higher, UtSTA will reimburse eligible participants for both the $50 registration fee and the SUU credit fee. Participants must be contracted teachers in a public school or district to qualify.
Participants who do not earn at least a 74% will be billed the remaining course balance of $650.
Membership Requirement
You must be a current member of UtSTA to enroll in this course. If you are not a member, you will need to join or renew your membership prior to registration.
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel or withdraw 14 days or more after the course begins:
- You will be responsible for the full tuition balance
- The $50 registration fee and SUU credit fee will not be reimbursed
- A withdrawal grade will appear on your SUU transcript
