Gene and Evolutionary Biology

Unit code: HBM1101 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
St Albans
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This unit introduces key concepts of genetics, animal and plant diversity and evolution. Students will learn basic principles in the nature of variation, inheritance, genes and chromosomes, human genetics, DNA replication, gene action and expression, population genetics, selection, the genetics of speciation, molecular evolution, evolutionary biology and the origin of life, classification of organisms diversity of life, communities, ecosystems and the relationship of organisms to their environment, human impact, preserving habitats and genetic variation. This unit provides a strong foundation for students specialising in Biomedicine and health sciences.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Review the mechanisms of inheritance, recombination and mutation;
  2. Examine the structure of DNA, its replication and the molecular basis of gene action;
  3. Investigate the nature of genetic variation in populations, natural selection, microevolution, reproductive isolation and speciation;
  4. Discuss the basic structure and mechanisms of action of viruses and bacteria;
  5. Apply the concept of diversity of organisms to their relationship to each other and the environment;
  6. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamentals of scientific communication and critical analysis; and
  7. Participate in an academic community through reflective and critical engagement in academic texts and understanding of principles of academic integrity.

Study as a single unit

This unit can be studied on its own, without enrolling in a full degree.

Learn more about single units of study at VU

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Exercise
|
Grade: 10%
Guided Inquiry Worksheets (250 words)
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 10%
Annotated Bibliography Report (750 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 50%
Two (2) Tests (25% each, 30 minutes each)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 30%
Poster Team Presentation (1000 words)
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 0%
Evidence of completion of the Academic Integrity Modules (Hurdle)

Required reading

Campbell essential biology
Simon, E. J., Dickey, J., Hogan, K. A., Reece, J. B., & Campbell, N. A. (2016)| New York: Pearson Education, Inc.,

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Biomedicine
HBBM | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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