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

Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2020/21

The human evolution module will look at the current evidence for the descent of man, from early ancestors to Homo sapiens, and will explore hominid behavioural ecology. You will learn about the origin of humans and explore the evolution of the human genome. The theories for the development of human features, such as bipedalism, will be critically evaluated. The module will also address the cultural evolution of hominids, including the archaeological evidence of tools, language, early agriculture, and society.
Although some of the content will be delivered by lectures, you will be expected to carry out research into some aspects of the module and to contribute during both lectures and tutorials. You might 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

Lectures -18 hours
Tutorials - 4 hours
Workshop - 3 hours
preparation and reading for lectures ¿ 27 hours
preparation for tutorials ¿ 6 hours
preparation for Literature reviews ¿ 92 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment