Key facts
UNE unit code: BIOL120
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Our understanding of the world is constantly evolving. Biology 120 provides you with a foundation in core biological concepts and processes that is invaluable whether you wish to pursue further study in science or simply want to learn more about plant and animal diversity and interactions.
With an integrated approach to the evolution of multicellular organisms, topics include the mechanisms for evolution, and how this has resulted in the structural complexity of plants and animals we see on earth today.
You will explore the role of species interactions as an evolutionary force, building an understanding of key ecological principles in both natural and human environments.
Assessments extend your critical thinking, analytical and communication skills, and include a theory examination and a written assignment in the form of a scientific paper. Online quizzes and practical assessments provide opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 4 days | Mandatory Intensive School | Trimester 3, Online | The Intensive School is mandatory for Online students. |
| TBA | TBA | 4 days | Mandatory Intensive School | Trimester 2, Online | The Intensive School is mandatory for Online students. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers all practical/laboratory/tutorial activities as essential to student learning. Attendance and participation in practical/laboratory/tutorial classes (sessions) is mandatory. Students must attend MORE than 75% of the classes to avoid receiving a NI grade. If a student is unable to attend a mandatory class they should inform the Unit Coordinator and provide documentary evidence.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a sound grasp of the central concepts in the biology of multicellular organisms;
- articulate knowledge and processes that underly those concepts, including the diversity of multicellular eukaryote organisms, the structure and function of both plants and animals, and how plant and animals interact with each other;
- demonstrate skills in observation and interpretation of both theoretical and conceptual materials (through practical experience) and transmit this knowledge to others in verbal or visual form;
- apply the scientific method, problem solving skills, and critical thinking skills in relation to questions and concepts in biology and in science;
- collate and synthesise biological information and communicate it to others in a range of verbal and written forms; and
- demonstrate an awareness of some of the ethical and social issues involved in acquiring and applying biological knowledge, and working within ethical guidelines.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Mid-Trimester Quiz - Assurance Task and Final Examination - Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. |
| Introductory Skills Quiz | Yes | 5% | All offerings | No. Words: equivalent to 300 words |
| Mid-trimester Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Multiple choice question format. To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Mid-Trimester Quiz - Assurance Task and Final Examination - Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. There is a supervised exam during the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit.
|
| Practical Assessment - Assurance Task | Yes | 15% | All offerings | All in class (weekly or intensive school) assessed practical activities are supervised in person in a laboratory setting No. Words: 1000 To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Practicals and Tutorials (online or face-to-face) | Yes | All offerings | The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers face-to-face and online practical/laboratory/tutorial activities as essential to student learning. Attendance and participation in all practical/laboratory/tutorial classes (sessions) is mandatory - exemptions will not be granted without supporting evidence. | |
| Written Assessment | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Scientific Report No. Words: 1500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Campbell Biology: Australian and New Zealand edition
ISBN: 9781488626241
Reece J.B. and others, Pearson 12th ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
A Student Handbook for Writing in Biology
ISBN: 9781319480097
Knisely, K., Macmillan Learning 6th ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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