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Biology Teaching and Learning Centre · ANU College of Science and Medicine
This introductory biology course explores the diversity of living organisms on Earth. Students will: (a) Investigate the evolutionary history and relationships among major lineages, developing an understanding of how life has diversified over time; (b) Examine the unique biology of bacteria, archaea, protists, fungi, plants, and animals; (c) Delve into the structure and function of plants and animals, including development, nutrition, physiology, reproduction, and behaviour; (d) Explore ecological principles, such as population dynamics, ecosystems, and global change, that connect organisms to broader environmental patterns and conservation issues. Through lectures, laboratory practicals, and assessment items, students will build scientific literacy, analytical skills, and an appreciation for the complexity and interconnectedness of life forms and their environment. Drawing on examples from research being undertaken at ANU, this course provides a critical foundation for further study in biology and the life sciences. It is also a standalone course accessible to students across the University. Honours Pathway Option Entry to this option will be subject to the approval of the course convener. In this HPO, students will be introduced to the key philosophical and practical aspects of molecular phylogenetics in understanding the evolutionary history of animals. Guided preparatory readings will be provided before the 1-day or 2 half day workshops introducing the various steps of applying analyses. The dates for these HPO classes will be posted by week 3 of semester. Students will be expected to write and submit a report which states the problem, describes analyses, and provides evaluation and conclusions. This proportion of assessment will replace 10% of the overall course assessment. Students may opt out at any time prior to the last day of the teaching semester.
Quizzes
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 5
Practical assessments (hurdle)
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Final exam - hurdle requirement to achieve at least 40% on the exam
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 5
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: - Face-to face components, which will consist of approximately 36 x 1 hour lectures per semester (e.g. 3 x 1 hour lectures per week) and approximately 24 hours of workshops/labs (e.g. 8 x 3hr sessions throughout the semester). - Approximately 70 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures through engagement with the on-line textbook and completing practical assessments. Students are expected to actively participate in course activities. Other Information Students should note that BIOL1030, together with BIOL1020, CHEM1101 and CHEM1201, are prerequisites for many later-year courses offered by the Research School of Biology. The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website. Biology is an experimental discipline requiring the development of hands-on laboratory skills. It is expected that students will attend all laboratory sessions and submit all associated reports. Where there are extenuating circumstances that prevent a student from attending a lab, missed attendance has to be agreed with the course convener and appropriate supporting documentation submitted through the appropriate channels. There is a minimum lab attendance threshold of 80%. 80% of practical assessments must be submitted and must demonstrate a reasonable attempt to satisfy the requirements of the assignment.
Urry, L.A., Cain, M.L., Wasserman, S.A., Minorsky, P.V., Reece, J.B. and Jackson, M., 2021. Campbell biology: Australian and New Zealand version. 12th ed. Melbourne: Pearson Australia.