Module BIOL2571: PLANT AND ALGAL PHYSIOLOGY

Department: Biosciences

BIOL2571: PLANT AND ALGAL PHYSIOLOGY

Prerequisites

• • Two of the following three modules: Level 1 Molecules and Cells (BIOL1281); Level 1 Organisms and Environment (BIOL1161) and Level 1 Genetics (BIOL1171).

Corequisites

• • At least one other Level 2 Biological Sciences Module.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To study the fundamental principles underpinning plant and algal physiology.
• To study physiology in a comparative sense by examining similarities and differences between species and kingdoms.
• To study the links between phenotype and genotype by examining the molecular bases of physiological processes.

Content

• Photosynthesis and responses to light.
• Water balance and transport; nutrient uptake and balance.
• Abiotic stress at eh whole organism level.
• The genetic and biochemical bases of responses to abiotic stresses.
• Plant hormones and the control of gene expression.
• The algal kingdom.
• Biotechnological exploitation of algae.

Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge of the functioning of key plant and algal physiological systems and the molecular basis of these.
• Knowledge of the fundamentals of plant water relations, mineral nutrition, integration of carbon and nutrients in growth and development.
• Knowledge of the plant morphological and physiological responses and adaptations to variations in selected environmental variables, including those of extreme environments.
• Knowledge of the range of algal organisms, and their use in biotechnological applications.

• Understanding of techniques used to investigate plant and algal physiology from the whole organism scale to the molecular scale.
• To be able to integrate understanding and knowledge across a range of scales and levels (molecular, cellular, physiological and morphological/functional) to understand the key issues related to plant and algal functioning and survival.

• Numeracy, in data analysis, and calculations involved in data handling problems.
• IT skills, in use of software packages.
• Communication skills, using the written word and graphics, involved in physiology practical reports.
• Team work, working in small groups in practical classes.
• Self-motivation, in self-guided learning.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures deliver subject-specific knowledge.
• Workshops reinforce subject-specific knowledge and understanding gained from lectures and the development of key and subject-specific skills.
• Practical classes allow students to utilise subject-specific knowledge gained from lectures, and support the development of key and subject-specific skills.
• Tutorials give enhancement of the student learning experience, supporting attainment of all learning outcomes.
• Self-guided learning contributes to subject-specific knowledge and self-motivation.
• Practical reports are based on subject-specific knowledge and demonstrate subject-specific skills in carrying out experimental work and data analysis, as well as key skills.
• Problem Exercises (Data Handling) demonstrate subject-specific skills in data handling and key skills in numeracy.
• Unseen examinations demonstrate achievement of the appropriate level of subject-specific knowledge with an emphasis on understanding and communication (essay and problem-based questions) or recall of factual knowledge (multiple choice or short answer question tests).

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Regular formative assessments including data analysis, interpretation and problem solving throughout the module; minimum of 4 assessments over 2 terms.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University