Learning Outcomes
On completion of the module, students should be able to:
- demonstrate a knowledge of the different types of global habitats (biomes) and their environments,
- give examples of adaptations of organisms to living in a range of habitats,
- carry out a simple ecological survey and give an interpretation of the results,
- demonstrate a basic knowledge of classification of organisms.
Aims
The module aims to give the basic experience and knowledge of the interaction of biology and the environment that are considered to be an essential background to studies in biological science.
Content
Environmental biology is concerned with the ways in which microbes, plants and animals interact with each other and the environment. Through field, practical and classroom study, the module will give a brief overview of the subject and of the ways in organisms have evolved and adapt to our dynamic world.
The curriculum will include the following.
An overview of weather and climate and the natural gradients of the environment.
Differences between marine, coastal and mountainous environments in relation to their biodiversity.
Adaptations and suitability of organisms to a specific environment.
Strategies of anatomy, physiology and behaviour for extreme environments.
Biodiversity in the context of a changing world and the impact of global issues such as climate change, industrialisation and deforestation.
Practical work will include a garden bird survey in order to gain an insight into local garden bird biodiversity. Student will also learn to describe and illustrate plant parts by producing a portfolio of flower illustrations from the local area.