Module Provider: |
Geography |
Number of credits: |
10 [5 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
I (Intermediate) |
Terms in which taught: |
Spring |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
GH
Griffiths |
Pre-requisites: |
GG1P1 GG1IT GG1P2
|
Co-requisites: |
|
Modules excluded: |
|
Current from: |
2005/6 |
Aims:
Biogeography is a key component of the physical environment through its focus on plant/animal distributions and ecosystem services. This module examines the characteristics of the Earth's major biomes on a temporal and spatial basis and focuses on ecosystem function and dynamics in relation to the physical environment and human impacts. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
On completion of this module it is expected that a student will be able to:
Give a reasoned account of the characteristics and function of the World's major biomes
Recognise and evaluate the dynamic nature of ecosystems, including their development through geological time
Provide a considered account of how the Earth's biomes interact with other environmental systems, including climate, soils and land forms
Appraise the degree of human impact that has occurred globally through activities such as agriculture
Demonstrate the importance of the Earth's ecosystems to society and to consider their prospects in a rapidly changing social and physical world
Access, synthesise, and present information through written reports |
Additional outcomes:
Practicals using GIS software will extend existing expertise in GIS and demonstrate principles of biogeography for nature conservation and sustainable use of resources. |
Outline content:
An introduction to biogeography is followed by lectures on plant and animal distribution patterns, habitat mapping and ecological restoration. The basic principles of biogeography are illustrated with reference to selected global biomes including, tundra, boreal, temperate, Mediterranean, desert, savanna and tropical forest ecosystems. For each, temporal patterns of development, present characteristics and future prospects in a climatically-changed World will be discussed along with the degree of past, present and future human impact. |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
Ten two-hour lectures and one practical. |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
|
20 |
|
| Tutorials/seminars |
|
|
|
| Practicals |
|
4 |
|
| Other contact (eg study visits) |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Total hours |
|
24 |
|
| |
|
|
|
| Number of essays or assignments |
|
2 |
|
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
|
|
|
|
Assessment:
Coursework
Students will submit two practical reports:
1. GIS practical (1000 words)
2. Extended essay (2000 words)
Relative percentage of coursework: 100%
Examinations
None
Requirements for a pass
A mark of 40% overall
Reassessment arrangements
The resit will be an examination in September. |
staff
UoR Home