Discussion 1: Biological Myths

Warts come from frog urine, “daddy long-legs” are very venomous, their mouths are just too small to bite, cottonmouths live in underwater “nests,” bats lay eggs in your hair…these are some of my favorite myths about the animal kingdom.

This discussion board assignment is to discuss these or other “BIO” myths you’ve heard in your life. You can tell us about your favorite, or comment on one of these (don’t be embarrassed, we have ALL believed something crazy at one time or another). I’d really like to see discussion on this one. Did you have a similar idea as someone else? Did someone in this class help you debunk a myth you still thought might be true?

Now, a few OFFICIAL guidelines: Your posting should include at least one “myth” you, or someone you know, held true at some point. You can then explain how you found it wasn’t true, but most importantly, give a brief account of the true story (the facts that explain away the myth you chose). This one can be somewhat informal, people always enjoy discussing this topic and can get carried away in the silliness.

REQUIREMENTS:

1. State the myth. It MUST have something to do with BIOLOGY. If you have a question about whether something fits this category (weather, for example, does not) just ask me!

2. State the TRUTH. Find a citation from a reputable source.

• You will NOT get credit for “I saw it so I know it is true.”
• You will not get credit without a CITATION.

3. Comment substantively on some else’s post.

Important Note: Please try to stick to things at least somewhat related to biology… “black cats are bad luck” and “snakes are the devil” go a bit beyond biological misconceptions into the realm of mystical superstitions. Also avoid mystical predictions of coming into money, someone gossiping about you, etc.

Another important note: Please do not choose evolution as your “myth.” This is a science class, and this is supposed to be a fun discussion…lets keep it light.

***No makeup or deadline extensions are available for Course Content Discussion Forums.***