ANTH 101 is a general introduction to the field of biological anthropology, and its contributions to our understanding of human evolution and behaviour. Students examine the emergence of the human species and the theoretical and methodological frameworks used to understand present-day human biological variation and adaptation. This is done through the analysis of fossil and modern primates, including Homo sapiens. Topics include basic history and principles of evolutionary theory, hominid evolution, environmental stress in living and archaeological primate populations, human skeletal biology, and comparative primate anatomy and behaviour. Hands-on lab activities involving bones, tools, pottery, etc., reinforce concepts.

Students must also register for the mandatory lab section, ANTH 101L.