LSC-30030 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

This module will look at the current evidence for the descent of man, from hominins to Homo sapiens, and will explore early hominid ecology, the evolution of bipedalism, increased brain size and appearance of opposable thumbs. The fossil evidence from the African Rift Valley will be assessed and species from australopithecines to Homo discussed. In addition the cultural evolution of hominids, including the 'out of Africa' theory, early social evolution and the archeological evidence of tools, cave paintings and early agriculture will be critically evaluated, and molecular evidence and the techniques used to harvest it will be examined. There will be consideration of the evolution of speech and writing as the beginning of information transfer across generations. Although some of the content will be delivered by lectures, students will be expected to carry out research into some aspects of the module and to contribute during both lectures and tutorials. Students may have the opportunity to be involved in a workshop on making stone tools similar to those used by early hominin species.

The module aims to provide a detailed understanding of human evolution and present both historical and current issues in the study of human evolution.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Produce a synopsis of the historical and current understanding of human evolution: 1
Explain the evidence of the origin of hominins, and use this knowledge to form appropriate arguments: 2
Compile and evaluate evidence for the differences between modern and ancient humans and the other great apes: 2
Critically evaluate the relevant evidence that considers the impact of culture on human evolution
: 2

Study hours

Active learning:
9x 2hr: In-situ tutorials, seminars, debate, and discussion
2x 1hr: In-situ tutorials, seminars, debate, and discussion
1x 3 hr: workshop
2x 1 hrs: Timetabled group work for the formative assessment
1x 2hr: In-situ peer assessment for the formative assessment
10x 5 hrs: engagement with asynchronously delivered sessions
Independent study
10x 2 hrs: reflection from tutorials, workshops, and seminars
12 hrs: completion of assessment 1
41 hrs: completion of assessment 2

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment