Modiwl OSX-1004:
Diversity of Marine Life
Diversity of Marine Life 2024-25
OSX-1004
2024-25
School of Ocean Sciences
Module - Semester 1
20 credits
Module Organiser:
Martyn Kurr
Overview
This module starts with an introduction to the fundamental principles of biodiversity and taxonomy, as a basis for the remainder of the syllabus. Thereafter, the major groups of marine organisms will be considered, from microbes and algae to invertebrate and vertebrate animals. General taxonomy, body form, physiology and life history will be studied to give an appreciation of the multiple aspects of marine biodiversity.
Major groups of marine organisms will be reviewed, from microbes and algae to invertebrate and vertebrate animals. General taxonomy, body form, physiology and life history will be studied to give an appreciation of the multiple aspects of marine biodiversity.
Assessment Strategy
Excellent: A- to A+: Comprehensive factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with highly accurate knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups and classification criteria. Excellent ability to compare taxa and show some critical evaluation when considering similarities and differences between these.
Good: B- to B+: Good factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with demonstrable accurate knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups and classification criteria. A student achieving 2:1 grades in the module overall will have a good ability to compare taxa and show some reasoning when considering similarities and differences between these.
Adequate: C- to C+: Reasonable factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with some knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups and awareness of classification criteria. A student acheiving 2:2 grades in the module overall will have a reasonable ability to compare taxa.
Threshold: D- to D+: Adequate factual knowledge about diversity of marine organisms with some basic knowledge about function of evolutionary adaptations seen in different groups. Some basic comprehension of reasons for comparative differences seen between taxa.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply basic taxonomy of marine organisms to identify key differences between and within major groups.
- Explain the basic physiological principles applicable to marine organisms.
- Identify the basic functional morphologies of marine organisms.
Assessment method
Exam (Centrally Scheduled)
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
An exam covering the whole module's taught material.
Weighting
40%
Assessment method
Class Test
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Online MCQ test covering most of the second half of the taught material.
Weighting
30%
Due date
13/12/2024
Assessment method
Class Test
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Online MCQ test covering the first half of the taught material.
Weighting
30%
Due date
15/11/2024