Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

A detailed understanding of the principles of genetics is required to fully comprehend modern developments in ecology and evolutionary theory. These principles will be taken forward to develop a clear understanding of the mechanisms and processes that drive evolution in natural populations. The unit provides the foundation for further studies in population and conservation biology.

Aims

To provide a detailed understanding of the principles of genetics and their application to studies of evolution and ecology.

Objectives

On completion of this unit you will:

1. Develop a basic understanding of the science of genetics and the ability to interpret basic biological and ecological phenomena in relation to genetic and evolutionary processes.
2. Develop an ability to interpret eukaryote genetics in an evolutionary framework.
3. Gain experience in the practical application of basic techniques used in genetic studies.
4. Have developed a number of graduate capabilities including discipline knowledge and skills, critical and analytical thinking and problem solving, effective communication and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Content

• Physical basis of heredity


• Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance patterns


• Genotype/environment interactions


• Quantitative traits


• Evolutionary theory


• Adaptation and natural selection


• Speciation and phylogeny


• Sexual selection


• Evolution of life histories

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

The unit consists of 2 hours of lectures and a 2 hour practical session per week. Practicals will reinforce concepts introduced in the lecture series and will provide you with extensive hands on experience of techniques used in studies of genetics and evolution.

Assessment

Summative and formative feedback will be provided by written and oral feedback for assessment items 1 and 3. Assessment item 2 is summative.

Assessment name: Quiz/Test
Description: A short quiz to allow the students to gauge their understanding of genetic variation and modes of inheritance through their ability to recall facts, process knowledge and make basic calculations.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 4
Weight: 25%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Mid Semester

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: End-semester examination.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 4
Weight: 50%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Exam Period

Assessment name: Report
Description: Practical Book: Attendance and level of participation at practical sessions will be assessed via prac book entries, plus a write-up of exercises conducted in practical sessions.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4
Weight: 25%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End Semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Required Text:
1. Stearns SC & Hoekstra R (2005) Evolution: An Introduction. 2nd Ed. Oxford University Press

References:
1. Campbell N et al (2009) Biology, 8th Ed., Benjamin Cummings
2. You will also be directed to current reference material relevant to each topic area.

Other resources:
1. A laboratory coat will be required for practical classes.

Risk assessment statement

The unit consists of classroom-based lectures, discussions and practicals, all of which are extremely low risk activities. Students are provided with a health and safety manual detailing health, safety and emergency procedures associated with laboratory activities. Students are required to read, understand and put into practice all safety guidelines.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 06-Jun-2012