BL2303 Evolutionary Biology
(BL2303 online module handbook version 66)
image: Nuptial feeding in the dance fly Rhamphomyia. Mating takes place while the female is feeding on a prey item provided by the male, but some males cheat by re-using worthless or fake prey.†
Evolution is a fundamentally important component of our understanding of all biological phenomena, from molecular to ecosystem scales. This module will give an overview of the history and major principles of modern evolutionary biology, aimed at contemporary biologists of all backgrounds.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 1†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL1101 and pass BL1102*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2303: Assessment
2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2303: Contributing Staff †
BL2303: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL2303 successfully should be able to:
- Develop an understanding of Evolution and its history
- Understand Natural Selection and Genetic Drift
- Develop knowledge of Molecular Evolution and mutation
- Understand the evolution and consequences of sexual reproduction
- Know the relationship between speciation and Biodiversity
- Understand the basic principles of Phylogenetics
- Appreciate the role of the study of evolution to contemporary society
BL2303: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Field sampling methods (Botanics)
- Mendelian genetics
Transferable Skills
- "Full" practical write-up (Intro, Methods, Results, Discussion)
- Short essay (1000-2000 words)
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Lab safety awareness
- Problem-solving questions
- Biodiversity analysis
- Calculations/equations
- Chi-square test
- Data analysis
- Data presentation
- Descriptive statistics
- Genetic Drift
- Phylogenetic analysis
- Produce graphs/figures
- Produce tables
- Use other data analysis software
- Lab or field notebook
- Critiquing experimental design
- Generate class dataset
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
