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Genes & genomes in populations & evolution - BIO00056I

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  • Department: Biology
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Julia Ferrari
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: I
  • Academic year of delivery: 2021-22

Module summary

The module examines evolution at the level of genes, genomes, whole organisms through to behaviour. The module begins by introducing the processes that affect evolution, the change of allele frequencies, in natural and experimental populations ranging from microbes to humans, including the evolution of behaviours such as eusociality and cooperative behaviour. In the later half of the module we will explore how population processes change genomes both within and between species and discuss the resulting macroevolutionary patterns.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2021-22 to Summer Term 2021-22

Module aims

The module examines evolution at the level of genes, genomes, whole organisms through to behaviour. The module begins by introducing the processes that affect evolution, the change of allele frequencies, in natural and experimental populations ranging from microbes to humans, including the evolution of behaviours such as eusociality and cooperative behaviour. In the later half of the module we will explore how population processes change genomes both within and between species and discuss the resulting macroevolutionary patterns. Most of these concepts will be explored using a range of examples as well as simple mathematical models. The material is supported by workshops. Embedded in all aspects of the module is the aim to develop experimental design and problem solving skills and to practise data analysis.

Module learning outcomes

1. Understand and describe key evolutionary processes that affect allele frequencies in populations

2. Understand and describe evolutionary changes in genomes within and between species

3. Understand and describe key evolutionary processes that affect behavioural strategies and macroevolution

4. Synthesise ideas from across the module into coherent arguments.

5. Understand experimental design, data collection and analysis of data and be able to design simple experiments related to LO1-3.

6. Apply simple evolutionary models to problems related to LO1-3.

Module content

This module builds on Genetics & Evolution: principles of heritability, basic population genetics, history of life on earth

It will provide useful skills and knowledge to enable students to better participate in Advanced topics in Evolution and Genetics in Ecology, Genes and Development, Human and Medical Genetics, Advanced topics in Ecology, Ecology field course

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Genes & genomes in populations & evolution		 8 hours 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Genes & genomes in populations & evolution		 8 hours 100

Module feedback

Cohort-level feedback will be provided on performance in closed exams and made available via the VLE. Marks for open assessments will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Individual comments will be added to your script and/or on separate summary feedback document.  Histograms of module marks will be posted on the notice boards outside the Biology Student Services office. Individual marks will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Exam scripts will be made available at the end of either the Spring or Summer terms. You should take the opportunity to discuss your marks and feedback with your supervisor.

During the teaching of the module you will receive feedback that may be at a whole class or individual level. Forms of feedback may include: model answers and discussion of workshop questions, summaries of performance in practicals, VLE-based quizzes, individual spoken comments during workshops, individual written comments on formative work.   

Indicative reading

These are accessible through the VLE module site.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.