ZOOL30010 Functional Morphology

Academic Year 2023/2024

The study of the subject that we now call functional morphology has a rich history, but major advances in technology now permit us to precisely investigate questions of how animals move, how the circulatory system works, or why respiratory systems are constructed differently in across clades. This module explores the construction and composition of animals (primarily the vertebrates). Skeletal mechanics, biophysics & mechanics, and comparative anatomy form integral parts of this unit. Mathematical concepts of scale, optimization and locomotion are explored.

A basic knowledge of physics and mathematics is assumed for students entering this module. Competency in spreadsheet programs (such as MS Excel) is also assumed. Students should familiarize themselves with the basics of statistics prior to this course.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to:
- Understand the basics of skeletal biomechanics;
- Explain the basics of functional morphology, with an understanding of the difference between 'analogy' and 'phylogenetic' comparison;
- Understand the basics of vertebrate running and swimming;
- Appreciate the basics of fluid mechanics;
- Understand how circulatory and respiratory systems function.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24
Laboratories

10
Specified Learning Activities

30
Autonomous Student Learning

61
Total

125
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures and lab-based practical exercises. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Requirements:

2nd year Biology courses

Learning Recommendations:

Basic maths: An understanding of calculus and probability/statistics will be very helpful.

An understanding of how to use MS Excel (particularly mathematical formulae) is assumed.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Lab Report: Continuous write-up of class practical work Varies over the Trimester n/a Graded No

40
Examination: End of semester examination 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Graded No

60

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback will be given to students, post-assessment, for lab reports.

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 
Spring
      
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 31, 32, 33 Mon 13:00 - 13:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Wed 12:00 - 12:50
Laboratory Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 33 Fri 11:00 - 12:50
Laboratory Offering 2 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 33 Fri 11:00 - 12:50
Spring