Life at the Extremes is an integrated module that combines problem-based learning in the field with traditional lecture-based learning to investigate how life survives in a variety of extreme environments. The field course component of the module enables students to experience the realities of data collection in the field, which is an essential part of a biology program. Follow-up labs provide time to collate, analyse and interpret collected data and compare between project groups, demonstrating the innate variability of field data and the problems of measurement error. The taught component in semester 1 will further explore the issues of living in extreme environments. In addition, tutorials will provide training in effective report writing to prepare students for their final year projects.
Indicative content:
Module split into two components: (i) Field Course based at Bangor University during the summer vacation following the first year, and (ii) tutorials and lectures in semester 1 of the second year. The Field Course will investigate life in the extreme environment of the intertidal zone and adjacent maritime habitats of north Wales. Follow-up tutorials during semester 1 will give students an opportunity to develop their project reports, and semester lectures will provide more detailed information on how life survives in an array of extreme environments, including the origins of life on Earth, deep oceans and polar regions.
Describe, assess and compare the abundance and distribution of these organisms and, in a limited number of cases, show an understanding of the major physical and biotic factors affecting their distribution will be achieved by assessments: 1
Identify and assess the hazards associated with field work through a risk assessment will be achieved by assessments: 1, 2
Communicate the results of an investigation of a specific habitat or a selected species in a written form will be achieved by assessments: 3
Work individually and as part of a group, and integrate information gathered from a variety of sources will be achieved by assessments: 2
Explore a variety of adaptations that enable plants and animals to survive in an array of extreme environments will be achieved by assessments: 1, 3, 4
3 hours tutorials
54 hours labs/field/travel
81 hours private study
Unseen lab test composed of a mix of MCQ and short questions, as well as identification of key plant and animal species
Mark based on student performance during group project
Individual write-up of project report (2,500 words)
2 hour exam based on essay question released two weeks before exam
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