School of Life Sciences  
 
 
LSC-10032 Genetics and Evolution  
Co-ordinator: Prof Paul Eggleston    Room: Hux173, Tel:33027  
Teaching Team: Dr Cheryl  Mills  
Lecture Time: See Timetable...  
Level: 1 Credits: 15 Study Hours: 150  
School Office: Tel: 01782 734414
 
 
 
Programme/Approved Electives for
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Prerequisites
As for Principal Biology, Neuroscience or Human Biology

Barred Combinations
None
Description

The module will examine the fundamental roles of genetics and evolution through a combination of classical and molecular studies. Concepts of Mendelian inheritance patterns will be introduced and reasons for divergence from these classical patterns described. The importance of genetic variability will be stressed in relation to living organisms both at the individual and population level. The module will raise awareness of the evolutionary process and discuss concepts of speciation and phylogeny, with a focus on human evolution. During practical classes and tutorials, the module will allow students to gain experience in the conduct, analysis and interpretation of genetic investigations. The module also provides an opportunity to address fundamental issues in bioethics with a focus on animal experimentation.
Aims
To examine the fundamental roles of genetics and evolution through a combination of classical and molecular studies.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Describe and explain the pivotal role played by the gene in living organisms. will be achieved by assessments: 1
Discuss classical and variant inheritance patterns along with the role of recombination and linkage. will be achieved by assessments: 1
Describe and explain the nature of interactions between genes and the influence of gene interaction on inheritance patterns. will be achieved by assessments: 1
Discuss the dynamic nature of genes in populations and describe how changes in gene frequency serve as a mechanism of evolution. will be achieved by assessments: 1
Describe and discuss the process of evolution and the concepts of speciation. will be achieved by assessments: 1
Discuss the relevance of genetics in relation to biodiversity and conservation. will be achieved by assessments: 1
Investigate and handle genetic material from a variety of organisms in practical classes, interpret the data obtained and apply the knowledge gained to gain an understanding of inheritance patterns. will be achieved by assessments: 2
Describe and explain how genetic information is inherited and analysed and how predictions of outcome can be statistically assessed. will be achieved by assessments: 2
Study hours
19 1-hour lectures = 19 h
5 3-hour practical classes = 15 h
4 3-hour tutorials = 12 h
Private study and assessment = 104 h
Description of Module Assessment
01: Exam weighted 75%
Multiple Choice Questions
A two hour examination consisting of multiple choice questions will be used to test knowledge and understanding of the taught material across the module.
02: Short Paper weighted 25%
Scientific Paper
Students will prepare an individual scientific paper, based on experiments carried out during the practical classes, and subject to strict formatting guidelines as identified in the module handbook.
Version: (1.06B) Updated: 03/Oct/2013

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.