BL2308 – Vertebrate Biology
BL2308 – Vertebrate Biology
This module will explore the diversity of vertebrate animals, beginning with the closest relatives of vertebrates and the evolutionary origins of the group. A detailed look at the defining characteristics of the body plans and lifestyles of the key vertebrate groups will illustrate how they carry out basic animal functions in similar or different ways. This will be put in an evolutionary context to reveal the patterns and trends in the vertebrates as a whole, while also highlighting current phylogenetic controversies. The module will then explore some common themes across the key groups, starting with the developmental biology of some vertebrate model systems and the lessons we can learn from these. We will also see how the highly developed brains of vertebrates have allowed the evolution of astonishing sensory capacities and of complex behaviours, and how these are different (or not) from invertebrates.
Skills acquired in this module:
Related Programme(s):
Module Code:
BL2308
Semester:
2
Credits:
15
Module Organiser:
Dr Verena Dietrich-Bischoff
Pre-requisite modules: BL1101 - Biology 1 and BL1102 - Biology 2
MMS
Timetable:
[events_list category="BL2308"]
Assessment:
2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%MMS assessment details
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
School of Biology Marking Criteria:
School handbook
Late submission of continuous assessment work:
All late submissions of coursework that do not require electronic submission should be made via the late submissions box in the Biology Study Space, St Andrews New Technology Centre Building (beside the Teaching Office)
Exam details:
School handbook
Exam timetable:
Timetable
Expected attendance:
School handbook
Good Academic Practice & Avoiding Academic Misconduct:
School handbook
University Student Handbook:
University student handbook
School and University Regulations:
School and University regulations in the School and University Undergraduate Handbook relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, good academic practice and Academic Alerts.
School handbook
University student handbook
Staff:
Learning Outcomes:
Students completing module BL2308 successfully should be able to:
- Demonstrate an overview of vertebrate phylogeny
- Appreciate the controversies involved in phylogenetic reconstruction
- Identify the defining features of the key vertebrate groups
- Appreciate how representatives from the key vertebrate groups carry out basic animal functions in similar or different ways
- Discuss sensory and behavioural capacities of vertebrates
- Discuss the use of vertebrates in research and the ethical implications
Policies:
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology Undergraduate Handbook (https://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/students/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2022/05/Undergraduate-Handbook-2021-22.docx)
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology Undergraduate Handbook and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at:http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/