BI2ERD4-Reptiles and Dinosaurs

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: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Brian Pickles
Email: b.j.pickles@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will provide an introduction to the study of reptilian biology from understanding their taxonomy, diversity, ecology, physiological adaptions and their conservation. 

Aims:

This module will provide an introduction to the study of reptilian biology from understanding their taxonomy, diversity, ecology, physiological adaptions and their conservation. 

Assessable learning outcomes:

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

• Describe the features that define reptiles and dinosaurs


• Understand the factors limiting the niche types in which reptiles and dinosaurs exist or existed


• Be familiar with the processes driving reptile diversity and abundance

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

The work will consist of guided self-study.  Practical classes will utilise the Cole museum’s collection of reptile skeletons and fossils.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures will introduce the broad evolution and diversity of reptiles and dinosaurs, before considering in detail the structure and function of key adaptive features. Moving from physiology to ecology, we consider the diversity of reproductive and social behaviour of reptiles. We also consider the conservation status of reptiles and how active conservation techniques can be used in situ.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20
Practicals classes and workshops	10
Guided independent study:
Other	70
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	50
Written assignment including essay	50

Summative assessment- Examinations:

1.5 hours

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework: Students will be required to submit a review of the literature associated with a topic provided by the coordinator or of their choice.

Formative assessment methods:

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: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/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 at least 40%

Reassessment arrangements:

re-examination in August/September

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 30 March 2023