Key facts
UNE unit code: BIOL120
*You are viewing the 2027 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 natural world is constantly evolving. This unit provides a foundation in core biological concepts and processes, offering valuable knowledge whether you plan to pursue further study in science or wish to learn more about plant and animal diversity, interactions, and the structure and function of multicellular organisms. Through an integrated approach to the evolution of multicellular life, you examine macroevolutionary processes and how they have shaped the structural complexity of plants and animals on Earth.
You also explore how species interactions act as evolutionary forces driving the success of terrestrial life in both natural and human-modified environments.
This unit develops critical thinking, analytical and communication skills through hands-on practical classes and assessments, providing opportunities to apply and integrate knowledge in real-world contexts.
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. Dates to be advised. |
| TBA | TBA | 4 days | Mandatory Intensive School | Trimester 2, Online | The Intensive School is mandatory for Online students. Dates to be advised. |
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:
- explain central concepts in multicellular organism biology and describe how organisms are adapted to specific environments; distinguish characteristics and evolutionary relationships across multicellular organisms;
- explore the structure and function of multicellular organisms across different taxa, explain how they are organised, and apply this knowledge to describe how these structures assist adaptation to specific environments;
- communicate understanding accurately using biological terminology and scientific conventions across written and oral media;
- apply the scientific method to pose and investigate biological questions by identifying variables, conducting experiments with guidance, and interpreting quantitative evidence; and
- apply ethical dimensions of biological knowledge and practice through demonstrated commitment to working within ethical and academic integrity 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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