BI3EU78-Animal Diversity

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5ECTS credits]
Level: 6
Terms in which taught: Autumn and Spring
Module Convenor: Dr A Callaghan
Pre-requisites: BI2BN5 BI2EI4 and BI2EA3 or BI2EJ3P or BI2EL3P
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2009/0

Email: a.callaghan@reading.ac.uk

Aims:
To develop taxonomic skills for the identification of animal groups and an overview of the diversity of animal life: to examine links between form and function; to appreciate the role of modern techniques in taxonomy; to refresh knowledge (gained throughout the degree) of all the main animal phyla, and many of the classes.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:
• Identify ALL the animal PHYLA and many of the CLASSES;
• Critically assess the links between form, function, ecological niche and biogeography;
• Apply their knowledge of the various animal groups to answer specific questions related to their biology.

Additional outcomes:
The module will also provide the students with an opportunity to develop their oral presentational skills during seminars and to design a new case for the museum.

Outline content:
This module provides an overview of the diversity of animal life, to encourage students to bring together knowledge and skills acquired during the Zoology Field Course, Vertebrate and Invertebrate Zoology. Students will be expected to familiarise themselves with the specimens on display in the Cole Museum of Zoology and to study a specially produced CD-ROM to support this module. In addition, each student will study a specific animal group to investigate relationships between form and function and will relate taxonomic diversity to ecological and biogeographical factors.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Teaching and learning methods will include practical sessions, seminars, directed study using the Cole Museum of Zoology, CD-ROM, primary literature and internet-based resources.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures
Tutorials/seminars	8
Practicals	7	7
Other contact (eg study visits)
Total hours	15	7
Number of essays or assignments	1 oral presentation	1 written report
Other (eg major seminar paper)	1 practical exam paper	1 practical exam paper

Assessment:
Coursework
An oral presentation (20%) will be presented by each student during seminar sessions at week 6 of the Autumn and written work (30%) by the end of the Autumn term. The content of this assessment will be discussed with students in week 1. In week 10 of the Autumn and in week 5 of the Spring Term, there will be a practical exam of 1.5 hours each (50% total) when students will be expected to identify and comment on a range of animal specimens.

Relative percentage of coursework: 100%

Penalties for late submission: In accordance with University policy.

Examinations: None

Requirements for a pass: A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements: Re-sit examination, if necessary, to take place in August/September.

Last updated: 23 November 2009