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Unit details

BIOL1130 Frontiers in Biology

Credit 6 points

Offering AVAILABILITY LOCATION MODE

(see Timetable)
Semester 1 UWA (Perth) Multi-mode

Semester 1 Albany Multi-mode

Details for undergraduate Level 1 core unit in the Conservation Biology; Zoology; Botany major
courses sequences
Level 1 option in the Physiology; Microbiology and Immunology; Genetics
major sequences
Level 1 complementary unit in the Neuroscience major sequence
The area of knowledge for this unit is Life and Health Sciences
Category B broadening unit for students
Level 1 additional unit in the Neuroscience second major sequence
Level 1 elective

Content This unit explores the origins and definitions of life, and the processes that
led to today's incredibly diverse array of organisms, from viruses to
vertebrates. Unifying patterns and concepts are demonstrated, such as the
structure and function of cells, how cells reproduce, how traits particular to a
species are passed to new generations, and how the inheritance of DNA is the
basis of evolution and the formation of species. The unit appeals to students
wishing to begin their training as a biological scientist and who are interested
in learning about topics that are challenging and fascinating our leading
researchers.

Outcomes Students are able to (1) recall—(a) the current understanding of the origins
and diversity of life; (b) the organisation and basic functioning of cells; and (c)
basic evolutionary and genetic principles; (2) demonstrate understanding in
the principles of experimental design and analysis for simple laboratory
experiments; (3) demonstrate proficiency in the
,handling
"biological
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material and in the use of equipment in a safe and responsible manner; (4)
communicate the results of biological experiments in the form of a written
report; and (5) apply critical thinking skills to the interpretation of results
from biological experiments.

Assessment Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) final examination; (2)
quizzes; and (3) written report. Further information is available in the unit
outline.

Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit except in the case of a

bachelor's pass degree student who has obtained a mark of at least 45 to 49
overall as well as a mark of at least 45 in a specified component of the unit
and is currently enrolled in this unit, and it is the only remaining unit that the
student must pass in order to complete their course.

Unit Coordinator(s) Assoc/Prof Jan Hemmi and Professor Jacqueline Batley

Contact hours lectures: 1 or 2 hours per week; practicals: up to 3 hours per week (8 per
semester)

Unit Outline Semester 1_2019 [SEM-1_2019]

Text Raven PH, Johnson GB, Mason KA, Losos J, Duncan T, Biology edn 12E,
McGraw-Hill 2020 (ebook access will be supplied).

The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be
subject to change.
All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic
learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources
available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free
online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's
STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and
workshops.
Books and other material wherever listed may be subject to change. Book lists relating to
'Preliminary reading', 'Recommended reading' and 'Textbooks' are, in most cases, available at the
University Co-operative Bookshop (from early January) and appropriate administrative offices for
students to consult. Where texts are listed in the unit description above, an asterisk (*) indicates that
the book is available in paperback.

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