LSC-20071 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

In this module you will study a structural and functional adaptations to a range of challenges seen in vertebrate and invertebrate animals. From water conservation in marine and desert reptiles to adaptation of muscle anatomy and physiology for peak power in the jumping muscle of the frog or peak speed in rattlesnake shaker muscle. A comparative approach is used to examine immune responses of mammals, birds, primitive vertebrates such as the lamprey, and invertebrates. You will also examine the coordination of responses to an animal¿s internal and external environment by nerves and hormones, focusing on the stress response and reproduction. You will integrate data and skills from practical investigations with module content helping you to use evidence to support theory. You will also use and evaluate generative AI outputs as you produce information about animal adaptations to a lay and technical audience.

To introduce students to selected aspects of the structural and functional features shown by a range of animals to enable adaptation to various environmental challenges.

Intended Learning Outcomes

define the osmotic problem faced by a range of animals and explain the structural and physiological mechanisms they employ to adapt: 1,3,4
compare and contrast how innate and acquired mechanisms of the immune system are expressed in a range of animal taxa: 1,3,4
review the major endocrine glands and the function of their hormonal products especially in regulation of the stress response and reproduction across a range of animal taxa: 2,4
describe the structure and function of neurones and muscle cells and explain how they are adapted for extraordinary function: 2,3,4
present, analyse and evaluate data from practical investigations: 3
use and evaluate content co-created with approved generative AI that explains complex animal behaviours: 4

Study hours

Active learning:
12 hours tutorials / workshops
15x 4 hours engagement with asynchronous content
Independent study:
4 hours summative tests,
5 hours online tasks linked to practicals
12 hours video commentary research and preparation
57 hours independent study

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment