Prescription for an Abstract

1. Prescription for an Abstract • Introductory Statement • Identify Objective of Paper • Summarize Key Points • Concluding Remarks • Abstract for Presentation due March 25!! • Literature Cited too!

2. Sexual Selection in Birds • Sexual selection occurs when differences in sexual behavior and/or plumage increase the opportunity for attracting mates. Birds are model organisms for testing sexual selection hypotheses because of their gaudy plumage and conspicuous mating behaviors. Barn swallows (Hirundorustica) have received considerable attention in studies of sexual selection. Females chose males possessing either brightly-colored bibs (North America) or long outer rectrices (Europe). In both regions, sexual selection favors males that have reduced parasite loads and can invest more energy in producing more brilliant plumage or longer tail feathers. Males possessing these traits also sire progeny that are healthier. Male barn swallows compete for access to females and females select males for traits that improve the odds of successfully raising young. Thus, even when conspicuous displays and colorful plumage appear maladaptive, these traits can increase reproductive success in bird species. • One or two sentences introducing the topic

3. Sexual Selection in Birds • Sexual selection occurs when differences in sexual behavior and/or plumage increase the opportunity for attracting mates. Birds are model organisms for testing sexual selection hypotheses because of their gaudy plumage and conspicuous mating behaviors. Barn swallows (Hirundorustica) have received considerable attention in studies of sexual selection. Females chose males possessing either brightly-colored bibs (North America) or long outer rectrices (Europe). In both regions, sexual selection favors males that have reduced parasite loads and can invest more energy in producing more brilliant plumage or longer tail feathers. Males possessing these traits also sire progeny that are healthier. Male barn swallows compete for access to females and females select males for traits that improve the odds of successfully raising young. Thus, even when conspicuous displays and colorful plumage appear maladaptive, these traits can increase reproductive success in bird species. • A sentence describing what the paper will be about—kind of a thesis sentence.

4. Sexual Selection in Birds • Sexual selection occurs when differences in sexual behavior and/or plumage increase the opportunity for attracting mates. Birds are model organisms for testing sexual selection hypotheses because of their gaudy plumage and conspicuous mating behaviors. Barn swallows (Hirundorustica) have received considerable attention in studies of sexual selection. Females chose males possessing either brightly-colored bibs (North America) or long outer rectrices (Europe). In both regions, sexual selection favors males that have reduced parasite loads and can invest more energy in producing more brilliant plumage or longer tail feathers. Males possessing these traits also sire progeny that are healthier. Male barn swallows compete for access to females and females select males for traits that improve the odds of successfully raising young. Thus, even when conspicuous displays and colorful plumage appear maladaptive, these traits can increase reproductive success in bird species. • A few sentences summarizing key details of the paper’s body.

5. Sexual Selection in Birds • Sexual selection occurs when differences in sexual behavior and/or plumage increase the opportunity for attracting mates. Birds are model organisms for testing sexual selection hypotheses because of their gaudy plumage and conspicuous mating behaviors. Barn swallows (Hirundorustica) ave received considerable attention in studies of sexual selection. Females chose males possessing either brightly-colored bibs (North America) or long outer rectrices (Europe). In both regions, sexual selection favors males that have reduced parasite loads and can invest more energy in producing more brilliant plumage or longer tail feathers. Males possessing these traits also sire progeny that are healthier. Male barn swallows compete for access to females and females select males for traits that improve the odds of successfully raising young. Thus, even when conspicuous displays and colorful plumage appear maladaptive, these traits can increase reproductive success in bird species. • One or two sentences wrapping up the summary and pulling information together. 

6. A Survey on Public Perceptions of GMO Crops 71 respondents More than 80% were college graduates

7. Genetically modified crops are safe for human consumption Genetically modified crops are safe for the environment Genetically modified crops may decrease the need for pesticides Genetically modified crops may increase food safety Genetically modified crops may increase food nutrition General uncertainty on whether genetically modified crops are safe

8. Public assumes that nearly everything has been genetically engineered 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

9. GMO Survey • A population containing 80% college graduations was examined to address perceptions on safety and likelihood of encountering GMOs • Population expressed concern over safety issues but were more likely to admit GMOs will reduce pesticides and increase nutrition of food • Population was unable to distinguish between GMO and non-GMO crops