There will be three exams, each worth 25 percent of the final grade. Students are expected to learn concepts related to mechanisms by which the brain develop, and to understand and be able to think critically about information disseminated through science and the popular press. Five short papers to be turned in weekly are worth a total of 5 percent of the final grade. Papers are to reflect critical analysis and thought regarding the week’s lectures and/or readings. Students can turn in short thought papers during any week except for the first and last weeks of the quarter. Only one paper may be turned in during any given week. A 5 page term paper worth 20% of the final grade will be due the last day of class. This paper is to summarize and critique the research literature on a controversial aspect of brain and behavioral development.