Not a bad class. Very interesting material and Menaker has a dry humor but the lectures still weren't captivating enough for me to attend them. Tests are unnecessarily hard and specific (averages are high 60s). Only take it if needed or if you have friends in the class that are willing to give you notes for lectures you missed. The TA held review sessions before the tests, which were really helpful.

No homework in this class, but make sure you keep up on your readings each week and review the films before each test if you can. Menaker is very intelligent and likes to spark debate in class. I really enjoyed the material but the lectures isn't exactly the most exciting.

its alright, not bad if you're a bio major (pretty easy 3 credits). although the material is nothing new if you have taken evo/eco (or even second semester of bio). lectures can be kinda of interesting, but he's a bit out of touch (evident by his lack of ability to use microsoft office). if you're looking for an elective, take another class there are many others that are more interesting and just as easy

This was a very interesting class, with a teacher that likes to spark a lot of discussion and debate. It can get very bird and insect heavy at times, but overall it was all quite interesting. With regards to grading, he will try and scare you with his grading system. But it is not true. He says in class that he curves to a C+, but he actually curves to a B-, and I was pleasantly surprised with my grade. Overall, I would recommend this course, but it will be quite challenging, with averages on test being normally in the 60s/70s

Writes ambiguous test questions. Requires you to know very specific examples of animals that explain certain concepts. He also spends a large amount of time complaining about problems with the textbook that HE picked out. I took this class intending to learn about animal behavior from a neurobiological aspect, but instead this class was at least 80% evolutionarily based. A fun professor, but a tough testmaker.

Actually a pretty good class. The lectures weren't always as comprehensive as they could be, but they were interesting and if you did the reading, the tests were ok. Watching the films was important, but as long as you worked decently hard in the class, you would be fine.

The class itself is pretty interesting and the professor is really funny/quirky and has good lectures. But sometimes he can give really vague lectures. He expects you to read the book and know it cover to cover because he will rarely lecture on a lot of specific book content, even though that constitutes 50% of the exams. Despite the fun/laid back atmosphere, the exams are really difficult and you'll think you did well when the average is still really low which is discouraging. Oh and don't skip the films. The questions on the exams from the film are really specific too.

Dont take with Menaker!! The class is awesome - tons of cool info. But it has a very simple basis so the tests are very, very specific. A common test average is 65-70. Plus only 2 midterms (50%) and final (50%).