Subject area of lecture:

Students registered in the B506 are expected to give a formal lecture on any subject in Systematics & Evolution. The subject area should be peripheral to their own research area and should not include any of their own data or results. Students are encouraged to choose a subject that has always interested them but about which they would like to learn more. Treat the lecture preparation as an opportunity to indulge your curiosity!

Choice of focal paper:

Try to select a recent paper from the primary literature that best illustrates an example of research done in the broader subject area on which you are lecturing. Avoid review papers, as these are often too long and don't provide results or specific conclusions that promote useful discussion. The best paper is one that is under 10 pages, has a well-defined question with clear (or at least clearly presented) results and conclusions.

Provide an electronic copy (pdf) of your focal paper to the course coordinator two weeks prior to your lecture so that it may be posted on the course web site.

Lecture preparation:

The most common mistake students make is not to allow enough time to prepare. To assist you, you will be asked to meet with one of the course coordinators to discuss the outline for your lecture one week prior to your lecture. Tips for preparing a good lecture