Open the App

Subjects

The Role of Plants in Shaping Human Civilization

4

0

D

Daniela

11/27/2025

Earth and Space Science

Plants and civilization

178

Nov 27, 2025

23 pages

The Role of Plants in Shaping Human Civilization

D

Daniela

@daniela_bdkf

Plants and Civilizations (AGRI/IE 116) explores the complex relationships between... Show more

Page 1
Page 2
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6
Page 7
Page 8
Page 9
Page 10
1 / 10
1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Course Overview and Goals

Plants and Civilizations examines how plants and humans have influenced each other across time and cultures. This course isn't just about memorizing plant facts—it's about developing critical thinking skills that will benefit you in college and beyond.

The course explores three main themes: the origins of agriculture, plants in human history, and plants as drugs. You'll investigate questions like why agriculture emerged in multiple places around the same time and how plants like tea and chocolate have shaped economies and cultures.

Beyond content knowledge, you'll develop valuable skills including how to find reliable information, analyze complex issues, and construct convincing arguments. These transferable skills will help you in other courses and your future career.

Pro Tip: This course includes many smaller assignments rather than a few big ones. Working consistently each week will help you succeed!

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Course Structure and Expectations

Lectures meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:00-3:50 PM in Nutrien 140. Weekly recitation sections are held in E005 Plant Science, where you'll discuss readings and work on activities that deepen your understanding of lecture content.

The course uses a variety of assessment methods including weekly quizzes, short essays, a term project, group debates, and participation in recitation activities. These different formats help you develop and demonstrate multiple skills.

Attendance is essential! Lectures introduce key concepts, while recitation sections provide opportunities for discussion and feedback. If you must miss a recitation, contact your Teaching Assistant (TA) beforehand to arrange a make-up assignment.

Remember: Your TA's recitation page will have each week's readings and discussion assignments. Check it regularly to stay on track!

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Main Course Themes

The Origins of Agriculture and Evolution of Crop Plants section explores why agriculture emerged in 5-11 places worldwide at roughly the same time. We'll examine the consequences of shifting from hunter-gatherer to agricultural societies and how domestication changed both plants and human communities.

Plants and History investigates how plants like potatoes, bananas, chocolate, and tea have influenced economics, culture, and politics. Each plant tells a fascinating story about human history—from the potato's role in European economy to the cultural significance of tea and the religious rituals surrounding it.

Plants as Drugs examines how humans have used plants for medicine, recreation, and religious purposes. We'll explore ethnobotany (how cultures use plants), the discovery of therapeutic compounds, and the complex history of plants like opium, coca, and cannabis.

Did you know? The course includes a library research component to help you find reliable sources for your term project and develop research skills you'll use throughout college.

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Teaching Team and Resources

Dr. Andrew Norton leads the course with extensive background in plant ecology and invasive species management. His office hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00-12:00 in C212 Plant Science or via Zoom.

Teaching Assistants hold weekly recitation sections and have their own office hours. They're your first point of contact for questions about assignments and readings, so don't hesitate to reach out!

The course uses Canvas to organize content into weekly modules containing lecture slides, videos, and recitation instructions. The Plants and Civilizations LibGuide provides additional research resources for assignments and the term project.

Success Strategy: Visit office hours! Meeting with instructors is one of the most underused but valuable resources for college success. They're there to help you understand course material and improve your work.

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i
1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i
1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i
1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i
1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i
1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i


We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

Earth and Space Science

178

Nov 27, 2025

23 pages

The Role of Plants in Shaping Human Civilization

D

Daniela

@daniela_bdkf

Plants and Civilizations (AGRI/IE 116) explores the complex relationships between plants and human societies throughout history. This course examines how plants have shaped civilizations through agriculture, economics, medicine, and culture, while building critical thinking and communication skills that extend beyond... Show more

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Course Overview and Goals

Plants and Civilizations examines how plants and humans have influenced each other across time and cultures. This course isn't just about memorizing plant facts—it's about developing critical thinking skills that will benefit you in college and beyond.

The course explores three main themes: the origins of agriculture, plants in human history, and plants as drugs. You'll investigate questions like why agriculture emerged in multiple places around the same time and how plants like tea and chocolate have shaped economies and cultures.

Beyond content knowledge, you'll develop valuable skills including how to find reliable information, analyze complex issues, and construct convincing arguments. These transferable skills will help you in other courses and your future career.

Pro Tip: This course includes many smaller assignments rather than a few big ones. Working consistently each week will help you succeed!

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Course Structure and Expectations

Lectures meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:00-3:50 PM in Nutrien 140. Weekly recitation sections are held in E005 Plant Science, where you'll discuss readings and work on activities that deepen your understanding of lecture content.

The course uses a variety of assessment methods including weekly quizzes, short essays, a term project, group debates, and participation in recitation activities. These different formats help you develop and demonstrate multiple skills.

Attendance is essential! Lectures introduce key concepts, while recitation sections provide opportunities for discussion and feedback. If you must miss a recitation, contact your Teaching Assistant (TA) beforehand to arrange a make-up assignment.

Remember: Your TA's recitation page will have each week's readings and discussion assignments. Check it regularly to stay on track!

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Main Course Themes

The Origins of Agriculture and Evolution of Crop Plants section explores why agriculture emerged in 5-11 places worldwide at roughly the same time. We'll examine the consequences of shifting from hunter-gatherer to agricultural societies and how domestication changed both plants and human communities.

Plants and History investigates how plants like potatoes, bananas, chocolate, and tea have influenced economics, culture, and politics. Each plant tells a fascinating story about human history—from the potato's role in European economy to the cultural significance of tea and the religious rituals surrounding it.

Plants as Drugs examines how humans have used plants for medicine, recreation, and religious purposes. We'll explore ethnobotany (how cultures use plants), the discovery of therapeutic compounds, and the complex history of plants like opium, coca, and cannabis.

Did you know? The course includes a library research component to help you find reliable sources for your term project and develop research skills you'll use throughout college.

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Teaching Team and Resources

Dr. Andrew Norton leads the course with extensive background in plant ecology and invasive species management. His office hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00-12:00 in C212 Plant Science or via Zoom.

Teaching Assistants hold weekly recitation sections and have their own office hours. They're your first point of contact for questions about assignments and readings, so don't hesitate to reach out!

The course uses Canvas to organize content into weekly modules containing lecture slides, videos, and recitation instructions. The Plants and Civilizations LibGuide provides additional research resources for assignments and the term project.

Success Strategy: Visit office hours! Meeting with instructors is one of the most underused but valuable resources for college success. They're there to help you understand course material and improve your work.

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

1
2
Plants and Civilizations - Lecture 1
Important! This course is at (or very near) capacity. I can't override when the class is
full. It i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

4

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user