Course overview
The aim of this course is to introduce the concept of biodiversity and provide an understanding of how organisms function in their environment. This course examines the measurement, classification and identification of biodiversity and the biological processes and principles that underlie its functioning and evolution. Specific topics include the classification of organisms, cell structure and function, photosynthesis and respiration, mitosis, meiosis, evolution, plant structure and, function, invertebrate and vertebrate structure and function, and relevance of and current threats to biodiversity. You will also practice the skills of scientific report-writing and the use of a microscope.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the principles, measurement, classification and identification of biodiversity.
- Distinguish and describe organisms from the major taxonomic groups.
- Relate the structure and function of organisms to their survival in different environments.
- Explain the fundamental biological principles and processes that facilitate the functioning and evolution of organisms.
- Demonstrate library, internet and communication skills by researching a topic and clearly reporting the findings.
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The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.