Unit name | Vertebrate Palaeobiology and Evolution |
---|---|
Unit code | EASCM0036 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1A (weeks 1 - 6) |
Unit director | Professor. Mike Benton |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Earth Sciences |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This unit covers the evolution of vertebrates from basal fish-like creatures to humans. An emphasis will be given to anatomy and phylogeny, with descriptions of key groups of fishes, amphibians, reptiles (especially dinosaurs), birds and mammals. The aim is to provide students with an understanding of the diversity, evolution, and relationships of the vertebrates, and to cover some current debates concerning their behaviour, biology, and evolution. Key anatomical aspects will be covered in lectures and practicals, and current debates in the literature will be highlighted.
On successful completion of the unit you will be able to:
Lectures (15 hours) and practicals (15 hours)
Assessment is based on continuously assessed coursework (33%), in which each student will make and present a research-based poster, and an examination (67%), which will comprise short answers, an anatomy section, and an essay, to test the student's overall knowledge of the subject.