BI2EI4-Invertebrate Zoology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Christopher Foster
Email: c.w.foster@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Invertebrates – animals without backbones – are the most successful and diverse eukaryotic organisms. This module will consider the range and diversity of invertebrates, as well as reviewing invertebrate anatomical and physiological ‘systems through a functional or thematic approach.

The main aim of this module is to introduce you to the aquatic and terrestrial animals without backbones as the most successful and diverse grouping of eukaryotic organisms.

Aims:

The main aim of this module is to introduce you to the world of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates as the most successful and diverse grouping of eukaryotic organisms.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Differentiate invertebrates at the level of phyla


• Recognise main exponents within the most abundant phyla (e.g. at the level of Class)


• Identify and explain major anatomical and physiological characteristics


• Understand the disparity of models underpinning phylogeny of invertebrates


• Describe particular aspects of a unique grou p of animals


• Know the multiplicity of interactions between invertebrates and other organisms


• Be familiar with recent research concerning the evolution, physiology, genetics and behaviour of invertebrates.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

Lectures will consider the diversity of invertebrates, as determined by the genetic make-up of each taxon (development, ontology and body plan) and the selective pressures of their environment (morphology, behaviour and ecology). They will go on to review invertebrate functional biology, covering themes such as feeding, locomotion, respiration, reproduction, development and defence.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

We will learn about invertebrate zoology using a mix of formal lectures and practical classes. Practicals will use preserved specimens and live animals to consider invertebrate diversity, identification, physiology and behaviour.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	14
Seminars	4
Practicals classes and workshops	8
Guided independent study:	74
Total hours by term		0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	60
Set exercise	20
Class test administered by School	20

Summative assessment- Examinations:

A one hour examination

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A practical write up and a practical test. 

Formative assessment methods:

The students actively participate and receive direct feedback from the lecturer and instructors during the practical activities (up to 8 contact hours) and during the seminars (4 hours). Course work marks are also provided with feedback.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40%

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-examination in August/September

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books:  None

2) Specialist equipment or materials:  None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:  None

4) Printing and binding:  None

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  None

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  None

Last updated: 28 June 2021