University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: In the event of over-subscription, places will be given to students who require the module for their programme, and students on supported pathway or visiting programmes with the correct pre-requisites. If spaces are available at the end of the main advising period (after Wednesday in Orientation Week), a random ballot will be conducted for students selecting the module as an option, with priority given to first year students.

Planned timetable: 10.00-11.00am Monday to Friday; Practical classes one per week 2.00 - 5.00 pm Mon, Tue, or Wed

This module provides an introduction to the diversity of life on Earth and will address key elements of organismal and ecological aspects of life. The module is divided into several sections beginning with the classification of life and an introduction to the kingdoms Monera, Fungi and Protista. Photosynthesis, respiration and the evolution and diversity of plants will be studied. Students will then look at the diversity of animals in the sea and the movement of some groups onto land. The module will also provide an introduction to animal behaviour and developmental biology, before finishing off by introducing ecology and the various factors promoting and threatening biodiversity. Throughout the module the lecture material is complemented by extensive practical classes introducing a variety of fieldwork and laboratory techniques.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): This module has availability restrictions indicated in the 2025-26 Module catalogue. You should ensure you understand the availability restrictions before selecting this module.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: across the semester: 40 x 1h lectures, 4 x 1h tutorials, 4 x 1h revision workshops, 6 x 3h practicals

Scheduled learning hours: 82

Guided independent study hours: 119

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%.


Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr I M Matthews
Module teaching staff: Team taught
Module coordinator email imm7@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Understand the basic conditions required for the origins of life and have a general
• Have an understanding of the process of molecular evolution
• Understand the importance of the species contained in the Kingdoms Protista and Fungi
• Understand principles on which the immune system operates, and its component parts and how they function; and basic aspects of micro-organisms that cause infection
• Understand the basics of how a human brain interprets the world and controls movement
• Have a general understanding of animal behaviour, including instinct and learning, the evolution of social behaviour and the evolution of mating systems