Key facts
UNE unit code: BOTY505
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Plants are essential to human life, and many plant communities are undergoing unprecedented changes as a result of land use, climate change and introduced species. Understanding these changes is critical for effective conservation and management of vegetation communities and threatened species.
In this unit, you will explore the physiological, ecological and evolutionary processes that shape the distribution and function of plants in today’s world.
Through this lens, you will gain a deeper understanding of the three main themes and their relevance to environmental management. You will examine recent research, lead discussions and present different points of view in written work aimed at scientific and general audiences.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
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 an advanced and integrated understanding of current research on the physiological, ecological or evolutionary responses of plants to climate change;
- research, critically evaluate and synthesise botanical knowledge on familiar and unfamiliar topics;
- communicate effectively about plant biology in written or verbal form with a broad range of audiences; and
- work collaboratively in group discussions to develop an understanding of complex themes across plant biology.
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 | 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. Students will summarise and synthesise recent literature on a current topic of research. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Group Discussion Part A - Assurance Task | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Leading a class discussion on a pre-defined topic. Students will be assessed on their preparedness and their leadership of the discussion. No. Words: Equivalent to 1000 To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Lead Group Discussion - Assurance Task, and Participation in Group Discussions - Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Group Discussion Part B - Assurance Task | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Students will be assessed on their engagement in group discussions. No. Words: Equivalent to 250 To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Lead Group Discussion - Assurance Task, and Participation in Group Discussions - Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Online Quizzes | Yes | 10% | All offerings | A series of online quizzes. No. Words: Equivalent to 500 |
| Scientific Communication - Part A | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Research and draft the introduction and outline for an article for the public, reviewing the scientific literature. No. Words: 1000 |
| Scientific Communication - Part B | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Research and write an article for the public, reviewing the scientific literature. No. Words: 1000 |
| Tutorial Participation - Assurance Task | Yes | All offerings | The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers all 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. All students must attend the required online group discussions, and On-Campus (ON) students must also attend face-to-face sessions. |
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.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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