BI3S116 - Advanced Vertebrate Zoology 16 Jul 2020 - 31 Aug 2026 | Version 4
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | BI3S116 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Advanced Vertebrate Zoology | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Biological and Forensic Sciences | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Biological Science | ||
| Module Leader: | Natalie Lubbock | ||
| Module Team: | Rebecca Lakin, Rhiannon Stundon, Sasha Tyler | ||
| First Intended Intake: | DEC 2017 | Final Year of Intake: | |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 20 | Credit Level: | 6 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 0 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100356 - zoology | ||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 100 | ||
Document Version Information
| Version | 4 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 16 Jul 2020 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2026 |
Module Aims
To introduce students to the phylum Chordata, and the morphological characteristics of the major groups both extant and extinct.
On successful completion of this module, students should understand the evolution and morphological characteristics of the major extant and extinct clades of the phylum Chordata. Combining Earth history with anatomical form and physiological function, students will study the evolution of the vertebrate classes and their comparative lifestyles.
The module is delivered using a combination of traditional lectures, dissection practical sessions, and a journal club tutorial. Students must be independent in their study of the subject matter and will develop autonomy of their learning.
Integrated practicals will develop vital skills such as dissection technique, laboratory safety, and an appreciation of 3D anatomy, compared across various vertebrate classes.
Students will also complete a journal club based on a significant topic and in doing so they will utilise skills such as planning, literature review, writing with time constraint and demonstrate the ability to reference using the Harvard system.
In engaging with the module, students will fully achieve the following level-appropriate behaviour Domains of the USW Graduate Attributes: Commercial Awareness: Behaviour 1,2
Communication: Behaviour 1, 2, 3
Leadership: Behaviour 1,2,3
Innovation and Enterprise: Behaviour 1, 2, 3 Project Management: Behaviour 1,2,
Digital Literacy: Behaviour 1,2,3
The Capabilities associated with these behaviours are found in the Graduate Attributes table at the end of the descriptor.
Content Summary
Topics covering vertebrate evolution include are not limited to:
A brief overview of Earth History, including the geological timescale, climatic and ecological changes throughout. Vertebrate origins and the possible morphologies of early vertebrates and their ancestors.
The diversity of early and modern fishes and the development of jaws and fins. Morphological and physiological adaptations to aquatic living. Early tetrapod evolution and the vertebrate transition to land.
Form and function of early and modern amphibians, the origin of amniotes, and the evolution of reptiles and their archosaur ancestors. The phylogeny, morphology and physiology of non-avian dinosaurs and their extinction.
The evolution of birds, their morphology and flight.
Mammalian origins and body plan, modern distribution, morphological and functional diversity of mammal groups, and adaptations to various habitats.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 22 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 14 |
| Independent Study | 118 |
| Directed Study | 34 |
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Total Hours Selected | 200 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Appreciate the morphological similarities and differences between members of the Vertebrata, understand the consequences of these for vertebrate diversity, and apply this knowledge through practical dissection. |
| LO2 | Discuss these morphologies and their evolution using scientific language and evidence from peer- reviewed sources. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portfolio | Portfolio 1 | Workbooks associated with Laboratory practicals | 0 | 2000 | 50 | No | 40 |
| Synchronous Onsite Assessment (Exam) | Onsite Closed Book Examination 1 | Exam | 120 | N/A | 50 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Portfolio 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Onsite Closed Book Examination 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |