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BL2304   Invertebrate Zoology

Academic year(s): 2017-2018

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 8

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Lectures: 11.00 am Mon, Tue, Wed (odd weeks) 11.00 am Mon, Tue (even weeks) Practicals: 2.00 - 5.00 pm Thu or Fri (weeks 2, 4, 7, 9 & 11)

The vast majority of animals are invertebrates - they do not have backbones. This module surveys the major invertebrate groups, emphasizing the diversity of body plans while demonstrating how the common functional requirements such as feeding, reproduction, respiration and excretion are achieved. The module starts with the simplest animals such as sponges and jellyfish, and considers how these primitive animals may have arisen from non-animal ancestors. It continues with a description of the several groups of worms, and the molluscs and arthropods. The last major group discussed are the echinoderms, which are close invertebrate relatives to vertebrate animals such as ourselves. The economic, social, and scientific impact that invertebrates have on human society is identified. The evolutionary relations between the various groups is the common thread that binds this diversity into a coherent story. A series of practical exercises reinforces and complements the lecture component of this module.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass BL1101 and pass BL1102

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take BL2102

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 x 1-hour in even weeks and 3 x 1-hour in odd weeks, 3-hour practical (x 5 weeks) 2 hours of seminars in total.

Scheduled learning hours: 39

Guided independent study hours: 111

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 2-Hour Written Examination = 50%, Existing Coursework = 50% (if Exam failed) Existing Examination = 50%, New Coursework = 50% (if Coursework failed) 2-hour Written Examination = 100% (if coursework and exam failed) 2-hour Written Examination = 100% (for Qualified Honours Entry)

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Team taught