1764 (v.7) Environmental Awareness 102

Area:

Department of Environmental Biology

Credits:

25.0

Contact Hours:

5.0

Lecture:

2 x 1 Hours Weekly

Laboratory:

1 x 3 Hours Weekly

Syllabus:

A focus on the basic principles of ecology, such as nutrient cycling, community structures, population genetics, population dynamics, biological diversity, Australian ecology, and urban and agricultural ecosystems. A special emphasis is placed on understanding characteristics specific to Western Australian environments, such as water availability, coastal and marine environments, and introduced species. Focusing on understanding the functioning of ecosystems and biological realities present in everydaylife. The lectures are complemented by laboratories where theory is translated into practical realities. Includes two field expeditions.

Unit Outcomes:

On completion of this unit students will have - Gained an understanding of some common ecological processes and greater awareness of the environment. Developed the ablity to recognise and describe the landform and the biological communities of the main biogeographic regions of Western Australia. Described the main issues relating to conservation of biological resources in the different regions of Western Australia.

Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.

Unit References:

No prescribed references.

Unit Texts:

Knox, Ladiges, Evans, Saint, (2001). Biology, 2nd ed. Sydney, McGraw Hill. Campbell, N.A., Reece, J.B. and Mitchell, L.G. (1999). Biology, 5th ed. Redwood City, The Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Company Inc. Taylor, M.R. (1999). Students Study Guide forCampbell's Biology, 5th ed. Redwood City, The Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Company Inc.

Unit Assessment Breakdown:

Evaluation of laboratory workbook 10%, Final written examination 30%, Final written laboratory examination 20%, Major Field assignment 20%, Mid-Semester exam 20%. This is by grade/mark assessment.

Year	Location	Period	Internal	Area External	Central External
2004	Bentley Campus	Semester 2	Y